I’ve always believed the perfect stuffing is a balance of texture and flavor, and this recipe nails it. With a mix of hearty bread, fresh herbs, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and timeless. The secret lies in the details, from how you prepare the bread to the way you layer the ingredients. If you’re looking to elevate your next meal, this might just be the recipe you’ve been searching for.
Recipe
This homemade stuffing recipe is the ultimate side dish—bold, comforting, and packed with flavor that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. I’ve made it for countless gatherings, and it’s always the first dish to disappear.
The secret? Fresh herbs, a mix of hearty bread, and a touch of butter that transforms it into a crispy, golden masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the warm, savory aroma of holiday magic.
Whether you’re pairing it with roast turkey or serving it as a star on its own, this stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a non-negotiable staple on your table.
Ingredients
The foundation of any great homemade stuffing lies in using fresh, quality ingredients that come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish. While traditional stuffing is often made with bread, herbs, and aromatics, don’t be afraid to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Here’s what you’ll need, along with expert tips and swaps to make it your own:
– Bread: Start with a hearty loaf like sourdough or French bread, preferably a day or two old. Stale bread absorbs the broth better without becoming soggy.
(Pro Tip: If your bread is fresh, toast it in the oven for 10 minutes to dry it out.)
– Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness and helps brown the stuffing perfectly. Don’t skimp here!
(Substitute: Olive oil works, but butter is preferred for that classic flavor.)
– Yellow Onion and Celery: These aromatics are non-negotiable—they form the base of the dish and add depth.
(Pro Tip: Dice them evenly so they cook uniformly.)
– Fresh Herbs: Sage, thyme, and parsley are essential. Fresh Herbs bring a bright, fragrant flavor that dried herbs can’t match.
(Substitute: Use 1/3 the amount if using dried herbs.)
– Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This keeps the stuffing moist. Use low-sodium to control the saltiness.
(Pro Tip: Warm the broth before adding it to the bread mixture for even absorption.)
– Eggs: One or two Eggs help bind the stuffing together, giving it a cohesive texture.
(Substitute: Flax eggs work for a vegan version.)
– Salt and Pepper: Season generously, but taste as you go—especially if using salted butter or broth.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flair:
- Dried Cranberries or Apricots: A sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
- Toasted Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Sausage: A crumbled breakfast or Italian sausage makes it heartier.
- Garlic: A few minced cloves for extra savory depth.
With these ingredients (and a little creativity), you’ll have a stuffing that’s anything but basic.
How to Make the Best Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe
• Gently fold in 2 beaten eggs. This helps bind the stuffing together for a cohesive texture.
Be careful not to overmix to avoid a gummy consistency.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and press lightly.
For a crispy top, leave it slightly loose; for a softer texture, press it down firmly.
• Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
Check for doneness by inserting a knife—it should come out clean.
• Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.
Pro Tip: For extra richness, dot the top of the stuffing with butter before baking.
Watch Out: Avoid overmixing or over-soaking the bread, as this can result in a heavy, dense stuffing.
Flexibility: For a smaller batch, halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch baking dish, reducing the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition
Here is the nutritional information for a standard homemade stuffing recipe per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Total Carbs | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 5g |
Chef Tips
When making homemade stuffing, I always recommend using day-old bread since it absorbs the flavors better without getting too mushy. I prefer toasting the bread cubes for a firmer texture.
Don’t shy away from fresh herbs like thyme and sage—they elevate the dish.
Finally, I suggest adding a splash of broth gradually to control moisture. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to perfection.
