No holiday feast is truly complete without a show-stopping stuffing. And when it comes to timeless, comforting, and utterly delicious recipes, Martha Stewart’s classic bread stuffing stands out. Celebrated for its perfect blend of savory flavors and delightful texture, this recipe is a cherished favorite. If you’ve ever wanted to bring that signature Martha Stewart excellence to your own holiday table, this guide will walk you through every step to create a stuffing that will be a memorable star alongside your roasted turkey.
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Why Martha’s Classic Stuffing is a Must-Try
Martha Stewart’s approach prioritizes quality and thoughtful execution, and her bread stuffing is a prime example. It’s a straightforward recipe that allows simple, high-quality ingredients to shine. The comforting taste of butter, fresh herbs, and perfectly toasted bread creates a dish that feels traditional, warming, and profoundly satisfying – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any festive occasion.
Ingredients for Martha Stewart’s Classic Stuffing
Gather these components to create your holiday masterpiece:
- Stale Bread: Approx. 1 lb (about 10-12 cups cubed), cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Stale bread is essential for absorbing liquids without becoming soggy. Use white, sourdough, challah, or brioche.
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks). Key for rich flavor and moisture.
- Aromatics: 2 large yellow onions and 4 celery stalks, finely diced. These form the savory foundation.
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup each of chopped fresh sage, thyme, and parsley. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor significantly.
- Chicken Broth: Approx. 2 1/2 cups (or as needed). Provides moisture and savory depth. Low-sodium allows for better seasoning control.
- Large Eggs: 2, lightly beaten. Acts as a binder and adds richness.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Proper seasoning is vital.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Stuffing
Follow these simple steps for a perfect stuffing:
1. Prep Your Bread
If your bread isn’t stale, spread the 1/2-inch cubes on a large baking sheet. Leave them out overnight, or bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until lightly toasted and dry. This step prevents soggy stuffing.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery. Cook, stirring, for 8-10 minutes until softened and translucent, building a flavorful base.
3. Infuse Herbs
Stir in fresh sage and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, releasing their essential oils.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a very large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, the sautéed vegetable-butter mixture, and fresh parsley. Toss gently. In a separate bowl, whisk chicken broth and beaten eggs. Pour this liquid over the bread mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Mix Until Moist
Gently mix all ingredients with your hands or a large spoon until well combined and the bread has absorbed the liquid. Avoid overmixing. The consistency should be moist but not saturated. If dry, add a tablespoon of broth at a time until ideal.
6. Bake to Perfection
Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown, crispy on top, and heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffing
- Always Stale Bread: Crucial for texture. Fresh bread will become mushy.
- Herb Customization: While sage and thyme are classic, feel free to add rosemary or marjoram.
- Broth is Key: Adjust broth amount; different breads absorb differently. Aim for moist, not wet.
- No Overcrowding: For even cooking and crispiness, use multiple dishes for large batches.
- Delicious Add-Ins:
- Savory: Cooked, crumbled sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or chestnuts.
- Sweet/Tart: Diced apples, dried cranberries, or apricots.
- Crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Crispy Top: Dot with extra butter before the final uncovered baking for an irresistible crust.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Advance Prep: Assemble the entire stuffing mixture in its baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature for ~30 minutes before baking.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Your Stuffing Questions Answered
- Is this recipe for baking inside a turkey?
- Martha Stewart’s “Classic Bread Stuffing” is typically baked in a dish (dressing). While you can use it to stuff a turkey, baking separately ensures even texture and simplifies food safety, as both turkey and stuffing need to reach 165°F (74°C).
- What if my stuffing is too dry or too soggy?
- Too Dry: Gently mix in a bit more warm chicken broth.
Too Soggy: Likely due to fresh bread or too much liquid. Try baking uncovered longer, or spread thinly on a baking sheet and crisp up in a hotter oven (400°F/200°C) for 10-15 minutes. - Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes! Substitute regular bread with your favorite gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s stale or toasted first.
Enjoy Your Perfect Holiday Stuffing!
With these instructions and expert tips, you’re all set to create Martha Stewart’s iconic classic bread stuffing. It’s a comforting, delicious, and deeply satisfying side dish that will surely become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Get ready to savor every fragrant, buttery, golden-brown bite!