How to Make Stuffing Ahead of Time

Prepare stuffing properly to keep your guests protected from food-borne illnesses.

Stuffing--a bread and herb mixture--is often served as a side dish at holiday dinners. When you prepare a large meal like those big holiday dinners, you may plan to make dishes ahead of time. Preparing your stuffing in advance allows you to focus on other aspects of the meal, but it must be prepared properly to prevent the risk of food-borne illness.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow containers
• Aluminum foil or tight fitting lids
• Cooking thermometer

Instructions

1. Prepare the wet ingredients for the stuffing according to the recipe or box instructions. Refrigerate wet ingredients until it's time to combine them with the dry ingredients. Wait to combine the wet and dry ingredients until just before you cook the stuffing.

2. Cook the stuffing according to the recipe.

3. Store the cooked stuffing in shallow containers.

4. Cover the stuffing with aluminum foil or a tight fitting lid.

5. Refrigerate the stuffing for up to three days. Reheat the stuffing until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (F).

Tips & Warnings

• To stuff a turkey, spoon the moist, hot stuffing directly into the turkey; refrain from packing the stuffing into the cavity. Cook the turkey in the oven immediately.

• Do not consume the stuffing if the temperature remains below 165 degrees F because dangerous bacteria may be present.

References

• United States Department of Agriculture: Turkey Basics: Stuffing
• University of California; Turkey Tips for a Safe Holiday; Ruben Oropeza et al.; November 2004
• University of Florida Extension: Holiday Cooking Safety: Talking Turkey