This Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe is the best! So much better than the stuff from a box and so easy to make from scratch. The secret is melted butter and celery leaves.
If you are using fresh French bread: slice it into ½″ slices, then each slice into ½″ cubes. Place bread cubes on a baking sheet (most likely you will need at least two sheets), in a single layer, then let it air-dry in room temperature overnight OR preheat oven to 250° F and bake bread for 30 to 35 minutes, shaking the pans every 15 minutes. If using already dried bread, place 10 cups in a large bowl.
Preheat oven to 350° F. Butter a 13"x9" baking dish or 3 quart baking dish. Set aside.
In a skillet, melt 1 stick (½ cup) of butter. Add chopped onion and celery. Saute until veggies are soft.
Add veggies to bread.
Add herbs, celery leaves, salt and pepper. Stir in.
Add broth and stir in gently. Place in buttered dish.
Melt remaining butter and pour over the stuffing.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You can uncover it for the last 5 minutes to toast up the top pieces, if desired.
Let cool for 10 minutes, then serve.
Notes
For the best texture, bake the stuffing the same day you will serve it. You can prep everything the day before: dry the bread and saute veggies. The next day just assemble everything and bake!
Please note, that the nutrition value can vary depending on what product you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use calorie counter you are familiar with.