Thanksgiving Stuffing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thanksgiving Stuffing is a savory and aromatic side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any holiday table. Made with a blend of bread cubes, herbs, vegetables, and broth, it’s the perfect companion to roasted turkey. Whether baked inside the bird or served on the side, this classic dish captures the essence of Thanksgiving with every flavorful bite.

ingredients

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

day-old bread cubeschopped onionschopped celeryunsalted butterchicken or vegetable brothfresh parsleydried sage, thyme, and rosemaryeggsalt and black pepper

directions

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

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 10 minutes.

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

Whisk together eggs and broth, then pour over the bread mixture, stirring gently to combine.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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

Bake for 30 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add cooked sausage or bacon for a heartier version.

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

Use cornbread instead of traditional bread cubes for a Southern twist.

Include nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and skipping meat add-ins.

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 20 minutes, or until warmed through.For freezing, portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate it a day in advance. Bake just before serving.

Can I stuff the turkey with this stuffing?

Yes, but ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

What kind of bread is best?

Day-old white, sourdough, or French bread works best for texture and flavor.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free bread cubes.

Why is my stuffing too dry?

Add more broth gradually until the desired moistness is reached.

Why is my stuffing mushy?

Too much liquid or overmixing can make it soggy—use a gentle touch.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, grated Parmesan or cheddar adds richness.

Do I need to toast the bread?

Toasting helps maintain structure—especially if bread is fresh.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Absolutely, just use about three times the amount of dried herbs.

Can I bake this in muffin tins?

Yes, for individual servings and crispy edges, use muffin tins.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s a beloved tradition that brings family and flavor together. Whether you keep it classic or add your personal twist, this dish is sure to be a centerpiece on your holiday plate. Warm, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, it’s a must-have for any festive feast.

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