Description
Perfect Homemade Stuffing is a savory, classic dish perfect for holiday feasts. Made with toasted bread, butter-sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this versatile side pairs beautifully with turkey or chicken and can be customized with add-ins like sausage or dried cranberries. A comforting favorite for every holiday table!
Ingredients
1 loaf (about 12 cups) day-old white or French bread, cubed (optionally mix with whole wheat or cornbread)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (plus more as needed)
1 large egg, beaten
1 ½ tsp dried sage (or 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped)
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped)
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins, chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), or cooked sausage
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and spread on a baking sheet.
- Toast for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway, until slightly dry and golden.
- Cook the Vegetables
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, celery, and garlic, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Stir in optional ingredients like cranberries or sausage.
- Mix in beaten egg and broth until the bread is evenly moistened. Add more broth as needed.
- Bake the Stuffing
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch dish, lightly pressing the mixture.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts before baking.
Ensure stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F if cooked inside poultry.
Make ahead and store unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8-10 servings
