There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of stuffing wafting through the kitchen. I love this stove top stuffing copycat recipe because it captures all those rich flavors without the fuss.
Recreating this classic side dish at home is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can serve up a delicious, savory accompaniment to any meal. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this stuffing hits all the right notes.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups stale bread cubes (preferably a mix of white and whole wheat)
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2½ cups chicken broth
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect stove top stuffing requires the right tools to ensure each step is executed flawlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cookware
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking of onions and celery, preventing burning.
- Medium Saucepan
Use this to simmer the chicken broth and incorporate the seasoning, creating a rich base for the stuffing.
Measuring Tools
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of ingredients like butter, broth, and spices are crucial for balanced flavors.
Preparation Tools
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
Essential for chopping onions and celery uniformly, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Perfect for stirring the stuffing mixture without damaging the skillet.
Miscellaneous
- Timer or Kitchen Clock
Keep track of cooking times to achieve the ideal texture without overcooking.
- Serving Spoon
For transferring the stuffing from the skillet to your plate smoothly.
Having these tools at your disposal makes the cooking process streamlined and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on layering flavors and achieving that perfect, comforting stuffing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your stove top stuffing ahead of time can save you valuable time on busy days. Here’s how I ensure my stuffing is delicious and stress-free when it’s time to serve.
Preparing in Advance
- Cook the Base Ingredients
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup chopped onion and 1 cup chopped celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Let it cool.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 10 cups stale bread cubes, 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning, 2 teaspoons dried sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Assemble the Stuffing
- Once the sautéed vegetables have cooled, add them to the dry ingredients. Pour in 2 cups chicken broth and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Store Properly
- Place the assembled stuffing in an airtight container. I prefer using a glass or plastic container to keep the stuffing fresh.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
- From Refrigerated
- Stovetop Reheating: Transfer the stuffing to a large skillet. Add an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the stuffing in an even layer in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
- From Frozen
- Thaw First: Move the stuffing from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to serve it.
- Stovetop or Oven: Follow the reheating instructions for refrigerated stuffing once it has thawed.
Tips for Best Results
- Prevent Sogginess: If you’re making the stuffing a day ahead, keep the liquid separate and add it just before reheating. This helps maintain the perfect texture.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme when you reheat the stuffing.
- Customization: Feel free to mix in extras like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or dried cranberries when preparing the stuffing ahead of time to personalize your dish.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy a flavorful and perfectly textured stove top stuffing without the last-minute rush.
Directions
Prep
- Measure Ingredients: Gather 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup chopped onion, 1 cup chopped celery, 10 cups stale bread cubes, 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon dried sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 1/2 cups chicken broth.
- Chop Vegetables: Finely dice the onion and celery to ensure they cook evenly.
- Prepare Bread Cubes: If your bread isn’t stale, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them dry out for a few hours or toast them lightly in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Cook
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until they’re soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the stale bread cubes, poultry seasoning, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss them together to distribute the spices evenly.
- Combine Mixtures: Once the vegetables are ready, add them to the bowl with the bread mixture. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming too soggy.
Assemble
- Heat the Stuffing: Return the mixture to the skillet and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the broth is fully absorbed and the stuffing is heated through, about 10 minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stuffing and add more salt or pepper if needed. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Serve: Transfer the stuffing to a serving dish using a spatula. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy warm alongside your favorite main dishes.
Serving Suggestions
When serving my stove top stuffing, I love pairing it with a succulent roasted turkey or glazed ham. The rich, savory flavors of the stuffing complement these main dishes beautifully.
For a complete and comforting meal, consider adding creamy mashed potatoes and a generous drizzle of homemade gravy. These sides enhance the hearty nature of the stuffing and create a satisfying balance on the plate.
To add a fresh and vibrant touch, garnish the stuffing with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted pecans. The parsley adds a hint of color, while the pecans introduce a delightful crunch.
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, mixing in dried cranberries or apple slices can elevate the dish. These additions provide a wonderful contrast to the savory elements, making each bite more interesting.
If you’re planning a festive spread, serve the stuffing alongside roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and green beans. These vegetables not only complement the stuffing but also add a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.
To make the meal more festive, drizzle a bit of melted butter over the stuffing just before serving. This enhances its rich flavor and gives it an appealing sheen that looks great on the table.
Finally, don’t forget to offer a selection of beverages that pair well with your meal. A robust red wine or a crisp apple cider can enhance the overall dining experience, making your stove top stuffing the star of the show.
Conclusion
I’m so happy you gave this stove top stuffing recipe a try. It’s incredible how easy it is to bring such delicious flavors to your table. The flexibility of this dish means it fits right into any meal whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner. Making it ahead saves time and stress, and I love adding my own twists to keep it fresh. Watching it come together on the stove is always satisfying. Seeing everyone enjoy the stuffing warms my heart and I hope it does the same for you. Enjoy the comforting taste and the wonderful aromas it brings to your home. Happy cooking and savor every bite!
