Imagine a holiday table filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked stuffing. We’re thrilled to share our Focaccia Bread Stuffing Recipe that elevates this classic side dish to a whole new level. With its origins in Italian cuisine focaccia brings a delightful twist to traditional stuffing blending rustic charm with rich flavors.
What makes this recipe stand out is the use of focaccia bread known for its airy texture and herbaceous notes. We’ve combined it with savory herbs aromatic veggies and a touch of broth to create a stuffing that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s the perfect companion to your roast turkey or holiday feast stealing the show with every bite.
About Focaccia Bread Stuffing
Dive into the heart of holiday feasts with our Focaccia Bread Stuffing recipe that reimagines the classic side dish with an irresistible Italian flair. Building on the unique texture and flavor of focaccia bread—known for its airy crumb and fragrant herbal notes—we craft a stuffing that elevates any meal. This isn’t just another side; it’s a showstopper that pairs perfectly with roast turkey or stands alone as a savory delight.
Why Choose Focaccia Bread Stuffing?
Let’s explore why this stuffing deserves a spot on your table. Unlike traditional bread stuffings that can often turn dense or soggy, focaccia bread brings a light and fluffy texture that soaks up flavors without losing its structure. Infused with rosemary, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil, it mirrors the rustic charm of Italian baking. We combine this with aromatic vegetables like onions and celery, plus a rich broth, to create layers of savory depth. Imagine the scent of freshly baked bread mingling with herbs as it wafts through your kitchen—pure holiday magic!
Unique Elements of Our Recipe
What sets our Focaccia Bread Stuffing apart? It’s all in the details. We start with day-old focaccia for the perfect balance of chew and crispiness when baked. Then we toss in Italian sausage for a hearty bite or keep it vegetarian with mushrooms for an earthy twist. A splash of white wine deglazes the pan adding a subtle tang that ties the flavors together. Curious about the nutritional perks or serving sizes? Check out the breakdown below to see how this stuffing fits into your feast.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 8-10 servings |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | Approximately 280 kcal |
| Key Flavor Notes | Herbal, savory, and slightly tangy |
Perfect Pairings and Occasions
We love how versatile Focaccia Bread Stuffing can be. Serve it alongside a roast turkey for a Thanksgiving centerpiece or pair it with a glazed ham for Christmas dinner. It also shines as a comforting side for a cozy Sunday roast. The herbal undertones of the focaccia complement rich meats while the crispy top layer adds a satisfying crunch. As one of our readers exclaimed, “This stuffing stole the show at our holiday table!” Make it a staple at your gatherings and watch it become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Focaccia Bread Stuffing
We’re excited to share the key components that make our Focaccia Bread Stuffing a standout dish for your holiday feasts or cozy family dinners. Using day-old focaccia bread as the star ingredient, we craft a stuffing that’s bursting with Italian-inspired flavors and a delightful texture. Below, we’ve listed all the ingredients you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece, ordered by use with specific prep notes for clarity. Let’s dive into the essentials for a stuffing that promises to steal the show!
- Day-old focaccia bread: 1 loaf (about 12-14 oz) cut into 1-inch cubes for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons for sautéing and enhancing the herbal notes of the focaccia.
- Italian sausage (optional for meat lovers) or mushrooms (for a vegetarian twist): 1 lb sausage (casings removed) or 12 oz mushrooms (sliced) to add depth and umami.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons to enrich the sautéed vegetables with a silky finish.
- Yellow onion: 1 large finely chopped for a sweet aromatic base.
- Celery: 3 stalks finely chopped for a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced to infuse a robust garlicky punch.
- Fresh rosemary: 1 tablespoon finely chopped to echo the classic focaccia essence.
- Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon finely chopped for a complementary herbal warmth.
- Dried sage: 1 teaspoon for a traditional stuffing vibe with woodsy undertones.
- White wine: ½ cup (dry preferred) to deglaze and add a sophisticated layer of flavor.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: 2-2.5 cups (low-sodium) to moisten the stuffing without overpowering the flavors.
- Eggs: 2 large lightly beaten to bind the mixture and ensure a cohesive bake.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon or to taste for balanced seasoning.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon freshly ground for a hint of spice.
- Fresh parsley: ¼ cup chopped for a vibrant finish and color pop.
For a quick glance at the basic stats of this recipe, check out the table below to plan your cooking with ease:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 8-10 people |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | Approximately 280 |
Essential Tools and Equipment
As we dive into crafting our Focaccia Bread Stuffing, having the right tools and equipment at hand ensures a seamless cooking experience. We’re excited to guide you through the must-have items that will help bring this Italian-inspired masterpiece to life. From prepping the day-old focaccia to baking the final dish, these essentials guarantee precision and ease for a stuffing that’s bound to impress at any holiday feast.
Cutting and Prepping Tools
To start, we need tools that make prepping our focaccia bread and vegetables a breeze. Grab a sharp serrated knife to cut the day-old focaccia into uniform 1-inch cubes for optimal texture and flavor absorption. A sturdy cutting board is vital for safely chopping ingredients like onion and celery. For finer tasks, keep a small paring knife handy to mince garlic and chop fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme with precision.
Cooking and Sautéing Equipment
Next, let’s talk about the equipment for cooking the savory base of our Focaccia Bread Stuffing. A large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch or larger) is essential for browning Italian sausage or sautéing mushrooms along with the aromatic vegetables. We recommend a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring to ensure even cooking without scratching your pan. If you’re adding a splash of white wine for depth, have a measuring cup ready to pour just the right amount.
Mixing and Combining Gear
Once the components are prepped and cooked, combining them properly is key. Use a large mixing bowl to toss the focaccia cubes with the sautéed mixture, broth, and beaten eggs. This size ensures everything blends evenly without spilling. A whisk comes in handy to beat the eggs before adding them to bind the stuffing together. For accuracy, keep measuring spoons nearby to season with salt and black pepper.
Baking Essentials
Baking transforms our mixture into a golden, crispy Focaccia Bread Stuffing. A 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish is ideal for even cooking and serves 8-10 people perfectly. Coat it lightly with olive oil or butter using a pastry brush to prevent sticking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking to keep the stuffing moist, then remove it later for that irresistible crunchy top. Have oven mitts ready to safely handle the hot dish.
Additional Handy Tools
Lastly, a few extra tools elevate our workflow. A kitchen timer ensures we don’t overcook the stuffing during its 40-minute bake time. Keep paper towels nearby for quick cleanups while handling olive oil or greasy sausage. If you’re unsure about doneness, a thermometer can check if the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F, especially if baking alongside poultry.
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Specific Use in Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Serrated Knife | Cutting bread into cubes | Slicing day-old focaccia into 1-inch cubes |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface | Prepping onion, celery, and herbs |
| Large Skillet (12-inch) | Sautéing and browning | Cooking sausage or mushrooms |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients | Mixing focaccia, broth, and eggs |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Baking the stuffing | Even cooking for 8-10 servings |
| Kitchen Timer | Tracking cooking time | Monitoring 40-minute bake time |
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into crafting our delectable Focaccia Bread Stuffing with detailed steps to ensure a perfect result. We’re excited to guide you through each phase of this savory masterpiece for your holiday feast.
Making or Preparing Focaccia Bread
To kick off our Focaccia Bread Stuffing recipe, we start with the star ingredient: homemade focaccia bread. If you’ve got store-bought focaccia, that’s perfectly fine, but making it from scratch elevates the flavor with freshly baked goodness. Gather 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 1/4 cups of warm water, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then add the water and olive oil, kneading until a soft dough forms. Let it rise for about 1 hour in a warm spot until doubled in size. Press the dough into a greased 9×13-inch pan, dimple the surface with your fingers, drizzle with more olive oil, and sprinkle with rosemary and sea salt. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. Once cooled, let it sit overnight to become day-old bread, ideal for stuffing as it absorbs flavors without getting soggy. If time is tight, buy a high-quality focaccia loaf from a local bakery to save effort without sacrificing taste.
Cutting and Drying the Bread
Now that we have our focaccia bread ready, let’s prepare it for the stuffing. Grab a serrated knife and cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes to ensure even drying and flavor absorption. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. We want that perfect crunch, so bake them at 300°F for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they’re lightly toasted and dry. This step is crucial for preventing a mushy texture in your Focaccia Bread Stuffing. Once dried, set the cubes aside in a large mixing bowl. Smell that herbaceous aroma of rosemary and thyme baked into the bread—it’s a preview of the incredible flavors awaiting in your holiday dish! If you’re prepping ahead, store the dried cubes in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispness.
Cooking the Stuffing
Let’s dive into the heart of our Focaccia Bread Stuffing recipe. We’ll guide you through each step to create a savory and aromatic dish that’s sure to steal the show at your holiday table.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter melts and begins to foam, add 1 finely diced yellow onion and 3 stalks of chopped celery. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and turn translucent.
Next, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic releases its irresistible fragrance. If you’re using Italian sausage, crumble 1 pound into the skillet now and cook for 8-10 minutes until browned and crispy. For a vegetarian option, swap the sausage with 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden. Season this aromatic base with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to bring out the flavors.
The scent of these ingredients melding together will fill your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma—pure holiday magic!
Combining Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed mixture to a large mixing bowl with your prepared day-old focaccia bread cubes (about 10 cups). Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley to infuse that signature Italian herb essence.
Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine for a subtle tangy depth and stir gently. Then add 2-3 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth gradually, mixing until the bread absorbs the liquid but isn’t soggy. Beat 2 large eggs in a small bowl and fold them into the mixture to bind everything together.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil and spread the stuffing mixture evenly. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and crisp. The result? A stuffing with a perfect balance of fluffy texture and crunchy crust that embodies the rustic charm of Focaccia Bread Stuffing.
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking (Covered) | 375°F (190°C) | 25 minutes |
| Baking (Uncovered) | 375°F (190°C) | 15 minutes |
Baking the Stuffing
Let’s transform our prepared mixture into a mouthwatering Focaccia Bread Stuffing that will steal the show at any holiday feast. With the flavors melded together, it’s time to assemble and bake this delightful dish to golden perfection.
Assembling the Dish
Now that we’ve prepared our aromatic mixture and focaccia bread cubes, it’s time to bring everything together for the final touch before baking. Follow these steps to ensure an even distribution of flavors in our savory stuffing:
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter or a drizzle of olive oil. This prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the edges of our Focaccia Bread Stuffing.
- Transfer the Mixture: Spoon the combined mixture of sautéed vegetables, Italian sausage or mushrooms, and focaccia cubes into the prepared dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Press Gently: Lightly press down on the stuffing with the back of a spoon to compact it slightly. This helps the ingredients bind together while still maintaining that light and fluffy texture we love in focaccia-based dishes.
- Add a Final Touch: For an extra crispy top, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over the surface or sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
“A well-assembled stuffing is the foundation of a memorable holiday side. Take your time to layer those flavors!” – Our Kitchen Tip
Baking to Perfection
With our Focaccia Bread Stuffing assembled, it’s time to bake it into a golden masterpiece that embodies the rustic charm of Italian baking. Let’s achieve that perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a tender interior with these precise steps:
- Preheat for Success: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). A consistent temperature is key to even baking and that coveted golden crust.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set.
- Uncover for Crispiness: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Watch closely as the top turns a beautiful golden brown and develops a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, herb-infused interior.
- Check the Texture: Insert a fork into the center to ensure the stuffing is heated through. It should feel warm and slightly firm yet still fluffy and moist thanks to the broth and white wine.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffing sit for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This brief rest allows the juices to settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing every flavorful bite.
| Baking Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Initial Baking Time (Covered) | 25 minutes |
| Additional Baking Time (Uncovered) | 10-15 minutes |
| Resting Time | 5 minutes |
As the aroma of rosemary, thyme, and baked focaccia fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’ve created something truly special. The sight of that crispy golden top paired with the savory scent of herbs and sausage or mushrooms will have everyone eagerly awaiting the first bite of this Focaccia Bread Stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
As we savor the delightful aroma of our Focaccia Bread Stuffing wafting through the kitchen, it’s time to think about how to serve this Italian-inspired masterpiece to truly elevate your holiday feast. This stuffing isn’t just a side dish; it’s a showstopper that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and complements the festive spirit. Let’s explore the best ways to present and enjoy this herb-infused delight at your table.
Pairing with Main Dishes
Our Focaccia Bread Stuffing is incredibly versatile and shines brightest when paired with classic holiday proteins. Serve it alongside a golden roast turkey for a Thanksgiving triumph—the stuffing’s rosemary and thyme notes harmonize perfectly with the bird’s savory juices. For a Christmas feast, pair it with a glazed ham; the stuffing’s light and fluffy texture balances the ham’s sweet and salty profile. If you’re hosting a Sunday roast, try it with roast chicken or beef—the olive oil-infused focaccia cubes soak up the rich drippings for an unforgettable bite. No matter the main dish, this stuffing adds a touch of Italian elegance to every plate.
Complementary Sides
Enhance your meal by pairing our Focaccia Bread Stuffing with other holiday favorites. A vibrant cranberry sauce offers a tart contrast to the stuffing’s savory depth while roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips bring an earthy sweetness that ties the flavors together. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the stuffing and protein. These pairings create a balanced and festive spread that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Creative Leftovers
Don’t let any of this delicious stuffing go to waste! Transform leftovers into a hearty breakfast by mixing it with beaten eggs and frying it into a savory stuffing frittata. Alternatively, use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers—just hollow out the peppers, stuff them with the reheated Focaccia Bread Stuffing and bake until tender. For a quick lunch, layer it into a sandwich with leftover turkey and a smear of cranberry sauce for a post-holiday treat. These ideas ensure that every last bite of your stuffing is enjoyed to the fullest.
Presentation Tips
Make your Focaccia Bread Stuffing the centerpiece of your holiday table with thoughtful presentation. Serve it straight from the golden-crusted baking dish for a rustic family-style vibe or scoop it into individual ramekins for a more elegant touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to highlight the Italian flair. Place it near the main dish to showcase its crispy top and fluffy interior tempting everyone to dig in. As the saying goes, “We eat with our eyes first”—so make sure this stuffing looks as irresistible as it tastes.
Serving Size and Portions
To help you plan your holiday meal, we’ve broken down the serving sizes and portions for our Focaccia Bread Stuffing. This recipe is designed to feed a crowd but can be adjusted based on your guest list.
| Serving Size | Number of Servings | Portion per Person | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Holiday Meal | 8-10 | About 3/4 cup | 280 |
| Smaller Gathering | 4-5 | About 1.5 cups | 560 |
| Large Feast | 12-15 | About 1/2 cup | 187 |
These portions ensure everyone gets a taste of this herbal masterpiece without overwhelming the plate. Adjust the quantities based on your menu and appetite for leftovers. Whether it’s the star of a cozy dinner or a supporting act at a grand feast, our Focaccia Bread Stuffing promises to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
We’re thrilled to share some practical advice on how to prepare our Focaccia Bread Stuffing ahead of time and store it properly to maintain its irresistible flavor and perfect texture. Whether you’re planning for a busy holiday season or simply want to save time, these tips will ensure your stuffing remains a holiday highlight. Let’s dive into the best ways to make ahead and store this savory masterpiece with ease.
Preparing Focaccia Bread Stuffing in Advance
To streamline your holiday prep, we can assemble the Focaccia Bread Stuffing well before the big day. Follow these steps to ensure it tastes just as fresh when served:
- Cube and Toast Early: Cut and toast the day-old focaccia bread up to 3 days in advance. Store the cubes in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crisp and ready for flavor absorption.
- Sauté Ahead: Cook the aromatics like onion, celery, and garlic along with the Italian sausage or mushrooms up to 2 days before. Let the mixture cool completely then transfer it to a sealed container and refrigerate. This step locks in those rich savory notes.
- Full Assembly Option: Combine all ingredients including the focaccia cubes, herbs, white wine, broth, and eggs up to 1 day ahead. Place the mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before following the baking instructions.
Pro Tip: Avoid baking the stuffing until the day of serving to prevent it from drying out. Keeping it unbaked preserves the moist fluffy texture we love in Focaccia Bread Stuffing.
Storing Leftovers for Later Enjoyment
If you have leftovers of this herbal delight, we’ve got you covered with the best storage methods to enjoy it later. Here’s how to keep your Focaccia Bread Stuffing tasting fresh:
- Cool Completely: Allow the stuffing to cool to room temperature after serving. This prevents condensation and sogginess in storage.
- Refrigerate Properly: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The rosemary and thyme flavors will continue to meld beautifully.
- Freeze for Longevity: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Portion it out for easy reheating. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
- Reheating Instructions: To reheat refrigerated stuffing, warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes covered with foil to retain moisture. For frozen stuffing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, microwave smaller portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Note: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to revive the stuffing’s moist texture and bring back that freshly baked aroma.
Make-Ahead and Storage Timeline
To help you plan, we’ve created a quick reference table for the Focaccia Bread Stuffing make-ahead and storage durations:
| Preparation/Storage Step | Timeframe | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Toast Focaccia Cubes | Up to 3 days ahead | Airtight container at room temp |
| Sauté Aromatics and Sausage/Mushrooms | Up to 2 days ahead | Sealed container in refrigerator |
| Assemble Full Stuffing Mixture | Up to 1 day ahead | Covered baking dish in refrigerator |
| Refrigerate Leftovers | Up to 4 days | Airtight container in refrigerator |
| Freeze Leftovers | Up to 2 months | Freezer-safe container or bag |
With these time-saving strategies, we can ensure our Focaccia Bread Stuffing is always ready to impress whether prepared in advance or savored as leftovers. These tips keep the Italian-inspired flavors of rosemary, thyme, and olive oil vibrant for every holiday bite.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to share this Focaccia Bread Stuffing recipe with you as a standout addition to your holiday table. It’s a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to become a cherished favorite.
With its Italian flair and irresistible flavors, this stuffing elevates any meal. We can’t wait for you to try it and see the smiles it brings to your gatherings.
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, don’t hesitate to share your experience with us. Your feedback means the world and helps inspire our next culinary creation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Focaccia Bread Stuffing different from traditional stuffing?
Focaccia Bread Stuffing stands out due to its use of focaccia bread, which has a light, fluffy texture and herbal flavors from rosemary and olive oil. Unlike traditional stuffing, it absorbs flavors without becoming dense or soggy, offering a unique Italian twist with ingredients like white wine and fresh herbs.
Can I use store-bought focaccia for this stuffing recipe?
Yes, store-bought focaccia works perfectly for this recipe. Opt for day-old focaccia if possible, as it dries out better for toasting, ensuring the stuffing maintains a great texture without getting mushy.
What can I substitute for Italian sausage in the stuffing?
You can easily substitute Italian sausage with mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Mushrooms provide a savory, umami flavor that complements the herbs and focaccia. Sauté them with the aromatics to enhance the dish’s depth.
How far in advance can I prepare Focaccia Bread Stuffing?
You can prepare components ahead of time: cube and toast focaccia up to three days prior, sauté aromatics and sausage or mushrooms two days ahead, and assemble the mixture a day before. Bake it on the day of serving for the best texture.
How should I store leftover Focaccia Bread Stuffing?
Cool the stuffing completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven to maintain its texture, adding a splash of broth if needed.
What dishes pair well with Focaccia Bread Stuffing?
This stuffing pairs beautifully with roast turkey, glazed ham, or roast chicken. Complement it with sides like cranberry sauce, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a balanced holiday meal.
Can I make Focaccia Bread Stuffing for a smaller group?
Yes, you can halve the recipe for a smaller group. Use a smaller baking dish, like an 8×8-inch pan, and adjust the baking time slightly, checking for a golden, crispy top after about 30 minutes.
Is Focaccia Bread Stuffing suitable for vegetarians?
It can be! Simply replace the Italian sausage with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This ensures a flavorful, vegetarian-friendly dish perfect for holiday gatherings.