Mom’s Best Bread Stuffing Recipe

Description

This recipe is a timeless classic passed down through generations, originating from my mom, Agnes, who has been perfecting it since before I was born. Whether it’s a festive Christmas dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this stuffing is a surefire hit. Versatile and easy to make, it can be cooked either inside the turkey or chicken for that authentic flavor, or baked separately in an oven baking dish. Plus, it’s not just for dinner – enjoy it cold, sliced on turkey sandwiches for a delicious leftover treat!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes
Servings: 1 stuffing

Ingredients

4 cups bread cubes
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 egg
3 tablespoons butter
3 onions, diced
3 stalks celery, diced

Instructions

Moisten Bread Cubes: Begin by moistening the bread cubes with either milk or hot water in a large mixing bowl. This helps to ensure a moist and flavorful stuffing.
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Seasoning Mixture: To the moistened bread cubes, add the salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, and one beaten egg. Gently combine the mixture until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout.
Prepare Onion and Celery: In a frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onions and cook until they are slightly browned and caramelized. Then, add the diced celery to the pan and continue to cook until both vegetables are tender.
Combine Ingredients: Once the onions and celery are cooked to perfection, add them to the seasoned bread cube mixture. Gently stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Stuffing Preparation: If you’re stuffing a turkey or chicken, lightly fill the cavity with the prepared stuffing mixture, being careful not to pack it in too tightly. Alternatively, if you’re baking the stuffing separately, transfer the mixture to a greased oven baking dish.
Season the Bird: Whether you’re stuffing the bird or baking the stuffing separately, it’s essential to season the outside of the turkey or chicken for optimal flavor. Rub the bird well with oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
Cooking Time: If cooking the stuffing inside the bird, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the stuffed turkey or chicken in the oven and roast for 2 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe minimum of 165°F (75°C).
Adjust Oven Temperature: After 1 1/2 hours of roasting, reduce the oven temperature to 250°F (120°C) to ensure the stuffing cooks evenly without drying out.
Serve and Enjoy: Once fully cooked, remove the turkey or chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. If you baked the stuffing separately, transfer it to a serving dish alongside the main course. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Mom’s Best Bread Stuffing!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 1028.1
Fat: 71.7g
- Saturated Fat: 28.1g
Cholesterol: 303.1mg
Sodium: 3716.7mg
Carbohydrates: 79.4g
- Fiber: 6.4g
- Sugar: 10.5g
Protein: 18.8g

Recipe Notes

For a healthier option, consider using whole grain bread cubes.
Customize the seasoning to your preference by adding herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary.
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
If you’re vegetarian, you can omit the egg and use vegetable broth instead of poultry seasoning for a delicious meat-free stuffing.
Feel free to add additional ingredients such as dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or sausage for extra flavor and texture.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, Mom’s Best Bread Stuffing is guaranteed to be a hit at your table. With its savory aroma and irresistible taste, it’s a dish that will bring joy to every bite. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in the timeless tradition of homemade stuffing made with love and care. Cheers to good food and cherished memories! 🍽️🦃✨