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Ina Garten Make-Ahead Stuffing Recipe

Ina Garten Make-Ahead Stuffing
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Ina Garten’s Make-Ahead Stuffing is a savory, herbed bread-based dish prepared with vegetables, broth, eggs, and butter. It’s similar to traditional stuffing but designed for convenience — you assemble it ahead of time and bake just before serving. The stuffing comes out moist in the center with a crisp top, giving that perfect homemade comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 large loaf of French bread or sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cups yellow onions, chopped

  • 1 ½ cups celery, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

  • 1 tablespoon chopped sage

  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock

  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk

  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the bread cubes

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and toast for 10–15 minutes, or until slightly golden and dry. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2 – Cook the vegetables

In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and celery, and sauté for about 10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, thyme, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to release the aroma.

Step 3 – Mix the wet ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, cream, and beaten eggs until smooth.

Step 4 – Combine all ingredients

Place toasted bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over them, then add the stock mixture. Toss gently until the bread is evenly coated and slightly moist.

Step 5 – Transfer to a baking dish

Grease a large casserole dish with butter and pour the stuffing mixture into it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 6 – Refrigerate (make-ahead step)

At this stage, you can refrigerate the stuffing for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and saves time on the day of serving.

Step 7 – Bake before serving

When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.

Step 8 – Rest and serve

Let the stuffing sit for 10 minutes before serving warm with turkey, gravy, or roasted vegetables.

Find it online: https://inagartencooks.com/ina-garten-make-ahead-stuffing-recipe/