We’ve always been fascinated by the glamour of Hollywood icons, and Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing recipe brings a touch of that sparkle to our holiday table. This vintage delight, rumored to hail from Monroe’s own kitchen, blends simple ingredients into a savory side that’s both comforting and elegant.
It’s no wonder this recipe has stood the test of time—it’s easy to prepare yet packs incredible flavor that elevates any meal. We’re thrilled to share our take on it, helping you recreate a bit of starlet magic in your home.
Ingredients
To bring the timeless elegance of our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe to life, we gather these key ingredients in the order they’re used. This classic blend creates a savory, aromatic side dish that’s simple yet sophisticated, perfect for holiday gatherings.
For the Base and Aromatics
- 8 cups bread cubes (from day-old bread, such as French or Italian loaf; cube them into ½-inch pieces for even toasting)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped; use a sweet variety like Vidalia for a subtle sweetness that enhances the dish’s flavor)
- 2 celery stalks (diced into ¼-inch pieces; this adds a crisp texture and fresh contrast)
For Flavor and Binding
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted; we recommend using high-quality butter to mimic the rich indulgence of a starlet’s kitchen)
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten; they help bind the mixture for a fluffy result)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium; warm it slightly before adding to ensure even absorption)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons dried sage (freshly ground if possible, for its earthy notes that evoke vintage Hollywood charm)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (crushed; this herbaceous touch balances the savory elements)
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher; adjust based on broth saltiness for optimal taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground; adds a subtle kick without overwhelming the other flavors)
- ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped; reserve a handful for garnish to highlight the dish’s vibrant, green appeal)
These ingredients combine to deliver the rich, comforting flavors that have made our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe a beloved staple, blending simplicity with star-quality appeal.
Tools and Equipment
Having gathered our key ingredients for the Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe, we now focus on the essential tools and equipment that make preparation seamless and efficient. These items ensure precise mixing, chopping, and baking to capture the dish’s rich, savory essence.
To optimize your kitchen workflow, here’s a curated list of the tools we’ll use, organized by their role in the recipe process:
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining bread cubes, vegetables, and wet ingredients; opt for a sturdy, heat-resistant version to handle everything from tossing to final mixing.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Ideal for finely chopping onion and celery; a sharp 8-inch knife paired with a stable board speeds up prep while maintaining safety and accuracy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for precise measurements of broth, butter, and seasonings; we recommend a set that includes both dry and liquid options for foolproof results.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10-inch non-stick skillet works best for sautéing onions and celery in butter, infusing them with that signature, comforting aroma.
- Baking Dish: Use a 9×13-inch oven-safe dish to bake the stuffing to a golden, crispy finish; glass or ceramic options distribute heat evenly for optimal texture.
- Whisk or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and blending eggs and herbs into the mixture; a sturdy wooden spoon offers better control to avoid over-mixing.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, ensuring our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe turns out perfectly every time.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe step by step, ensuring a flavorful, star-quality dish that brings Hollywood glamour to your table with minimal effort.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep the key components to build the foundation of our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe. Start by cubing 10 cups of day-old bread into 1-inch pieces for optimal absorption—stale bread works best to achieve a crispy yet tender texture. Chop 1 large onion and 2 cups of celery into fine, uniform pieces to release their aromatic essence when cooked.
Next, measure out 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted to a golden liquid that infuses rich, savory notes. Crack and whisk 2 large eggs in a bowl until smooth and frothy, which helps bind the mixture for a cohesive stuffing. Prepare 2-3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, adjusting based on desired moisture—aim for enough to make the stuffing moist but not soggy. Finally, mix in 1 tablespoon of dried sage, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper to create a fragrant herb blend that evokes the comforting, herbaceous flavors Monroe loved.
Cook the Stuffing
We transition to cooking, where the ingredients come alive with vibrant flavors and aromas. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of butter and sauté the chopped onion and celery for 5-7 minutes until they turn translucent and release a sweet, earthy scent that fills your kitchen.
Once softened, remove the skillet from heat and transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the 10 cups of bread cubes, whisked eggs, herb blend, and broth, then stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until everything is evenly coated—the bread should absorb the liquids, creating a moist, flavorful base with a hint of herbaceous brightness. For added depth, let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a stuffing that’s irresistibly aromatic and textured.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we assemble and finish our Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe to achieve that iconic, golden crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking—press lightly to compact without over-mashing, ensuring a crispy exterior and soft interior.
Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges crisp up, filling your home with an irresistible, savory aroma that signals holiday perfection. Serve hot alongside your main course, where the stuffing’s hearty, herb-infused taste and satisfying crunch will impress guests and add a touch of Monroe’s timeless elegance to any meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our preparation of the Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe for holiday gatherings, we can make it ahead without compromising its savory, herb-infused flavors or golden-brown crust. This approach allows us to focus on other dishes while ensuring the stuffing retains its timeless elegance and comforting aroma.
Preparing the Stuffing in Advance
Follow these steps to prepare the stuffing up to 24 hours ahead:
- Gather and prep ingredients early: We start by cubing the bread and chopping the onion and celery as outlined in the previous steps. This ensures everything is ready for quick assembly, keeping the fresh, vibrant flavors intact.
- Sauté and mix components: In a skillet, we sauté the onion and celery in melted butter until they turn tender and fragrant. Then, in a large mixing bowl, we combine the sautéed vegetables with bread cubes, eggs, broth, and herbs. Mix thoroughly to let the ingredients meld, creating that rich, savory base Monroe herself might have savored.
- Assemble and store: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Instead of baking immediately, we cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. This step helps the flavors deepen overnight, enhancing the stuffing’s hearty, aromatic profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For optimal results, we use the following guidelines to maintain the stuffing’s texture and taste:
- Cooling and refrigeration: After assembling, let the unbaked stuffing cool completely before refrigerating. Store it in an airtight container or covered dish to prevent drying, preserving the moist, flavorful interior.
- Freezing for longer storage: If we need to prepare further in advance, freeze the assembled stuffing for up to 3 months. Here’s a quick overview of storage options in a markdown table for easy reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered; reheat within 1-2 days for best flavor. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge; avoid refreezing to maintain texture. |
- Reheating for serving: When ready to serve, we preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the refrigerated stuffing for 30-40 minutes or the thawed frozen version for 45-50 minutes until it’s heated through and achieves a crispy, golden exterior. This revives the dish’s inviting aroma and ensures every bite delivers that star-quality appeal.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we unlock the full convenience of the Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe, making it a stress-free highlight of any meal.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed guiding you through this Marilyn Monroe Stuffing Recipe and its star-quality charm. It’s a simple way to infuse our meals with timeless elegance and warmth.
As we wrap up, remember that dishes like this bring people together, creating lasting memories at every gathering.
We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing recipe?
Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing recipe is a vintage, savory side dish that brings Hollywood glamour to holiday meals. It features simple ingredients like bread cubes, onions, celery, butter, eggs, broth, and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful blend that’s easy to prepare. This timeless recipe adds starlet elegance to any gathering, making it a beloved holiday staple.
What are the key ingredients for Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing?
The main ingredients include bread cubes, chopped onion and celery, butter, eggs, broth, and a mix of herbs and seasonings. These combine to deliver comforting, savory flavors with minimal effort. Gather fresh items for the best results, ensuring a dish that’s both hearty and elegant.
What tools are needed to prepare Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, chef’s knife, measuring cups and spoons, a skillet for sautéing, a baking dish, and a whisk or wooden spoon. These items help streamline preparation, making it simple to achieve a crispy, golden finish every time.
How do you make Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: cube bread, chop onion and celery, and measure butter, eggs, and broth. Sauté onion and celery in butter, mix everything in a bowl, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Bake until golden brown for a aromatic, flavorful result that evokes Monroe’s charm.
Can I make Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 24 hours in advance by prepping ingredients, sautéing vegetables, and assembling the mixture for refrigeration. This allows flavors to meld, making holiday cooking easier. For longer storage, freeze for up to three months and thaw before reheating.
How should I store and reheat Marilyn Monroe’s stuffing?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for quick servings. This keeps the texture crispy and flavors intact for the best taste.