Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Homemade Stuffing is a comforting and savory side dish that’s essential at any holiday table. Made with toasted bread cubes, aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and rich broth, this stuffing is flavorful, moist on the inside, and delightfully crisp on top. It’s a versatile classic that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands strong on its own.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

day-old bread (cubed)unsalted butteryellow onioncelerygarlicfresh parsleyfresh sagefresh thymechicken or vegetable brotheggsaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.

Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, until golden and crisp. Set aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, sage, and thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes and sautéed vegetables.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth, eggs, salt, and pepper.

Pour the broth mixture over the bread and toss gently until all pieces are moistened.

Transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.

Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesToasting and sautéing time: 20 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use cornbread instead of white bread for a Southern twist.

Add cooked sausage or bacon for a meaty version.

Mix in dried cranberries or diced apples for a touch of sweetness.

Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Make it vegan by using plant-based butter and broth, and skipping the eggs.

storage/reheating

Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

What kind of bread is best for stuffing?

Sturdy bread like sourdough, French, or Italian works best. Avoid overly soft breads.

Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, the eggs help bind it but can be omitted for a looser texture.

How do I keep stuffing from getting soggy?

Use dry or toasted bread and pour the broth in gradually, stopping once the cubes are moist but not saturated.

Can I stuff this into a turkey?

It’s safer to bake stuffing separately, but if you do stuff a bird, make sure it reaches 165°F internally.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar can add depth and richness.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread and make sure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sogginess.

What herbs are essential?

Fresh sage, thyme, and parsley are traditional and give classic flavor.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, its mild savory flavor and soft texture are usually well-liked by children.

Conclusion

Perfect Homemade Stuffing is an essential comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any meal, especially during the holidays. With its crisp top, moist center, and customizable ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, this stuffing is sure to become a cherished favorite.