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The Ultimate Classic Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Close-up of perfectly baked, golden brown stuffing with herbs in a white serving bowl.

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Make this easy homemade stuffing that delivers crispy edges and a moist, savory interior packed with fresh herbs. This traditional side dish is perfect for your holiday feast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried bread cubes (about 12 cups), preferably day-old
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chopped celery
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 to 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread the dried bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly toasted. This step helps create the crispy exterior.
  3. While the bread toasts, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion. Cook until soft, about 8 minutes.
  4. Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper into the skillet mixture. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes and the cooked vegetable-herb mixture. Toss gently to combine.
  6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 2 cups of the broth. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture. Toss until the bread is evenly moistened. Add more broth, a quarter cup at a time, if the mixture seems too dry. You want it moist, not soggy.
  7. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  8. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead stuffing, prepare the mixture through step 6, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 to 15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the broth with reserved turkey drippings.
  • To achieve the best crispy stuffing top, ensure the top layer of bread cubes is not completely submerged in liquid before the final uncovered baking stage.

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