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There’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of homemade bread stuffing wafting through the kitchen, entwining itself with memories of family gatherings and festive dinners. Picture it: golden-brown edges, savory herbs nestled within crusty bread, and a buttery richness that invites everyone to the table. I stumbled upon this irresistible stuffing recipe while experimenting with leftovers that begged to be transformed.

With this stuffing recipe, you can turn any ordinary meal into something extraordinary—perfect for holiday feasts or as a simple side that will impress even the pickiest of eaters. Not only is it packed with flavor, but the beauty lies in its ease of preparation. Whether you’ve got fresh herbs from your garden or just a few pantry staples, this dish makes use of them effortlessly. Get ready to create a delicious centerpiece for your dinner that will have your friends and family raving!

Why will you love this Stuffing Recipe?

Comforting flavors: The blend of savory herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme creates a heartwarming aroma that evokes memories of cherished family gatherings.
Easy preparation: This stuffing recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile dish: Serve it as a delightful side for your holiday meals or as a savory addition to weeknight dinners!
Crowd-pleaser: With its rich, buttery base and crispy edges, this stuffing will surely impress guests at any gathering.
Make-ahead option: Prep it in advance to save time before holiday festivities—less stress for you!

Stuffing Recipe Ingredients

For the Bread Base
• 1 lb bread – use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs flavors beautifully.

For the Aromatics
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter – provides a rich flavor; feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
• 2 cups chopped yellow onion – enhances the savory profile; you can mix in shallots for extra sweetness.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped celery – adds crunch and depth of flavor; celery leaves are great for a fresh touch.

For the Herbs
• 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley – brings a touch of brightness; you can swap with fresh thyme if desired.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh sage – this classic herb is essential in a good stuffing recipe.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary – introduces a warm, floral note; dried rosemary can be used in a pinch.
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme – complements the other herbs beautifully; adjust quantity to your taste.

For the Seasoning
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt – enhances all flavors; be cautious with table salt as it’s saltier.
• ground pepper to taste – adds warmth; fresh-ground pepper offers the best flavor.

For the Binding
• 2 large eggs – helps bind the stuffing together; can replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan alternative.
• 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth – keeps it moist and flavorful; or, opt for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.

How to Make Stuffing Recipe

Dry the bread cubes by letting them sit in a large bowl covered for 1-2 days, or for a quicker method, toast them at 250°F for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dry and crunchy.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 casserole dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Sauté the onion and celery in a skillet with melted butter until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of your stuffing.
Combine the sautéed mixture with the bread cubes in a large bowl. Add in the parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is well mixed.
Whisk the eggs and chicken broth together in a medium bowl. Pour this mixture over the dry bread cubes, thoroughly mixing until all the bread is moistened.
Transfer the stuffing into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the middle is set, creating a delightful crunchy texture.

Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Stuffing Recipe?

There’s nothing quite like a hearty, filling meal that complements the warm flavors of homemade stuffing.

Roasted Turkey: Juicy, tender turkey pairs perfectly with stuffing, creating a classic flavor harmony that everyone loves. The drippings from the turkey can even be drizzled over the stuffing for added richness.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce cuts through the savory stuffing, providing a delightful contrast that brightens every bite. It’s the ideal tangy touch to enhance your holiday spread.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes offer a soft, comforting texture that pairs beautifully with stuffing. Together, they create a satisfying combination that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Green Bean Casserole: This traditionally crispy side dish introduces a fresh crunch and earthy flavor to your meal, balancing the richness of stuffing with its creamy texture.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up the stuffing and any savory gravy that might accompany your main dish. They add a touch of comfort to your table, inviting everyone to indulge.
Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie brings a sweet finish that ties together the cozy flavors of the meal. The spices in the pie resonate with the herbs in the stuffing, creating a delightful full-circle experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Stuffing Recipe preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can dry the bread cubes and sauté the onion and celery up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the bread cubes in an airtight container and refrigerate the sautéed vegetables separately to maintain their flavor and texture. When it’s time to serve, combine the prepped components with the fresh herbs, eggs, and chicken broth, then bake as instructed. By prepping elements ahead of time, you’ll save precious minutes during holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, ensuring your stuffing is just as delicious and full of flavor!

Expert Tips for the Best Stuffing Recipe

Use Stale Bread: Ensure your bread is slightly stale or dried out to avoid soggy stuffing. This helps improve texture and flavor absorption.
Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onion and celery; it enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor, making your stuffing recipe truly stand out.
Herb Balance: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste. Too much sage can overwhelm; start with less and add more as needed for the best balance.
Moisture Check: Be mindful of the amount of chicken broth. Too much can lead to soggy stuffing, while too little may result in dryness. Aim for a moist but not overly wet mixture.
Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffing sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier!

Stuffing Recipe Variations

Embrace your culinary creativity and make this stuffing recipe uniquely yours with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Herb Swap: Use fresh dill or tarragon for a fragrant twist that adds a lovely flavor dimension to the stuffing.
Fruit Addition: Add dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast that complements the savory elements beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Include toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch, enhancing the texture and heartiness of your dish.
Sausage Twist: Incorporate cooked sausage or breakfast sausage for a meaty, savory flavor boost that will make your stuffing unforgettable.
Spice It Up: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you crave a little heat—just a pinch can elevate your stuffing!
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegetable broth to cater to plant-based diets.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for a creamy richness that melts beautifully throughout the stuffing.

With these variations, your stuffing recipe can be tailored to match any occasion or flavor preference!

How to Store and Freeze Stuffing Recipe

Room Temperature: Store leftover stuffing at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after cooking to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Keep your stuffing recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Freezer: You can freeze stuffing for up to 2 months. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F for 20–30 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to retain moisture.

Bread Stuffing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right bread for this stuffing recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, opt for day-old bread, as it absorbs the broth beautifully without getting soggy. French or sourdough bread works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

What’s the best way to store leftover stuffing?
This stuffing recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To ensure it stays fresh, let it cool completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven for the best results!

Can I freeze the stuffing for later use?
Yes, you can freeze this stuffing recipe! It keeps well for up to 2 months. Once cooled, place it in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes.

What if my stuffing ends up too dry or too soggy?
Very much a common concern! If your stuffing is too dry after baking, you can gently stir in a little extra chicken broth before serving to moisten it. On the other hand, if it’s a bit too soggy, try baking it uncovered for a little longer; this allows moisture to evaporate, giving you that perfect balance of flavors and texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I need to keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, this stuffing recipe can easily be adapted. Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. For those with egg allergies, use flaxseed meal mixed with water—1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg. Additionally, be mindful of any bread containing gluten if you have gluten-sensitive diners.

Can I make this stuffing recipe ahead of time?
You bet! This stuffing can be prepared a day ahead. Follow all the steps up to baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through. This way, you can enjoy your time with guests, knowing a delicious dish is ready to go!