Rustic Baked Stuffing

The Perfect Side Dish: Rustic Baked Stuffing
Rustic Baked Stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and tradition. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or preparing a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Packed with wholesome ingredients like whole grain bread, fresh herbs, and savory aromatics, this stuffing strikes the perfect balance between hearty and delicious.

To begin, let’s talk about the foundation: whole grain bread. Not only does it bring a nutty depth to the dish, but it also adds texture that holds up beautifully when baked. Furthermore, unlike store-bought stuffing mixes, this recipe allows you to control every element, from the seasoning to the moisture level, ensuring a truly personalized experience.

In addition, the fresh herbs—parsley, sage, and thyme—infuse the dish with an earthy, aromatic essence that feels just like home. Moreover, when paired with sautéed onions, celery, and garlic, these herbs create a medley of flavors that complement any main course.

Another reason to love this recipe is its incredible versatility. For instance, you can pair it with roasted chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian main course. Additionally, it’s easy to make ahead of time, which is perfect for stress-free entertaining.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its rustic charm. The golden-baked crust and tender, flavorful interior are an irresistible combination. Because it’s baked in a dish rather than inside poultry, it gets that crispy top layer while staying moist underneath—a win-win!

Finally, if you’re searching for a stuffing recipe that’s both classic and unique, this Rustic Baked Stuffing is the answer. Simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and filled with comforting flavors, it’s destined to become a new favorite in your home.

INGREDIENTS
8 cups whole grain bread, cubed
6 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
1 cup celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the bread: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the cubed whole grain bread onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast the bread in the oven for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until dry and lightly golden. Once done, set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the mixture becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown.
3. Add the herbs: Lower the heat slightly and stir in the parsley, sage, and thyme. Cook for another minute, blending the flavors.
4. Combine the bread and aromatics: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the aromatic mixture over the bread, tossing gently to coat the bread evenly.
5. Incorporate the liquids: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium stock, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Gradually pour the liquid over the bread mixture, gently folding to combine. Ensure all the bread cubes are moist but not overly soggy.
6. Bake the stuffing: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Spread the stuffing evenly into the dish, pressing lightly to level the surface. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Achieve a golden top: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.
8. Serve and enjoy: Allow the stuffing to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color.