Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bread stuffing is the ultimate comfort food that brings together a perfect balance of savory flavors and satisfying textures. The crispy top, tender interior, and mix of herbs make it a delightful side that complements roasted meats, especially turkey and chicken. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and can be customized with your favorite additions like sausage, cranberries, or nuts. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

10 cups cubed day-old bread (preferably white or sourdough)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried sage
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 large eggs, beaten
Optional: 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (crumbled), 1/2 cup chopped cranberries, 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

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

Directions

Prepare the Bread: If using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and dry it out by spreading it on a baking sheet. Leave it to air dry for a few hours, or bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until the bread is dry but not browned.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Season the Mixture: Stir in the dried thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until the herbs are fragrant.
Combine Bread and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Toss until the bread is evenly coated with the butter and seasonings.
Add Broth and Eggs: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, then gently stir to moisten the bread. Add the beaten eggs and chopped fresh parsley, and mix until the stuffing is evenly combined. If you’re adding optional ingredients like sausage, cranberries, or nuts, fold them in now.
Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the top to get golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. For extra flavor, drizzle with a little extra melted butter before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Sausage Stuffing: Add 1 cup of cooked, crumbled sausage for a savory, meaty stuffing that’s even more satisfying.
Cranberry-Walnut Stuffing: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a sweet and crunchy twist.
Apple and Sage Stuffing: Add 1-2 cups of chopped apples for a fruity, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with sage.
Gluten-Free Stuffing: Use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread to make the stuffing gluten-free while maintaining the same great texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make bread stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply prepare the stuffing up until the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking it as directed.

Can I cook stuffing inside the turkey?

Yes, stuffing can be cooked inside the turkey, but it’s important to ensure that the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Be sure to stuff the turkey just before roasting and bake immediately.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as whole wheat, challah, or even cornbread. Just ensure the bread is a bit stale or dried out to achieve the right texture.

Can I make this stuffing without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the eggs if you’re allergic or prefer not to use them. The eggs help bind the stuffing, but the dish will still turn out delicious without them. You can use a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute, or just add more broth if necessary.

Can I freeze bread stuffing?

Yes, you can freeze bread stuffing before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the stuffing and cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, cool the stuffing completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use homemade broth instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade broth works wonderfully in this recipe. It adds even more depth of flavor to the stuffing and is a great way to use up leftover turkey or chicken stock.

Can I make stuffing without broth?

While broth adds flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with water or a mix of milk and water. However, the flavor will not be as rich, so consider adding more herbs or seasonings if you omit the broth.

How can I make my stuffing more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, add a bit of white wine or sherry to the broth, or sauté the vegetables in some bacon fat or sausage drippings for extra richness.

Can I make stuffing without a baking dish?

Yes, if you don’t have a baking dish, you can bake the stuffing in a roasting pan or any oven-safe dish. Just make sure it has enough room for the stuffing to spread evenly.

How do I prevent the stuffing from being too dry?

Ensure that the bread is properly moistened with the broth and eggs. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more broth, but avoid over-saturating it. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.

Conclusion

Bread stuffing is a timeless, comforting side dish that complements a variety of main courses, especially during holiday meals. With its perfect blend of savory herbs, tender bread, and crispy edges, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you prefer it traditional or like to add your own twist, this stuffing is versatile, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Prepare it for your next big meal and enjoy the delicious, nostalgic flavors of homemade bread stuffing.