Perfect Homemade Stuffing for the Holidays

Name: Perfect Homemade Stuffing for the Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 10 cups crusty bread, cubed; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup onion, diced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your holiday feast with this Perfect Homemade Stuffing recipe. Made with fresh herbs, crusty bread, and a blend of savory ingredients, this stuffing is the ultimate comfort food that pairs beautifully with turkey or serves as a delightful standalone side. Your guests will rave about the mouthwatering aroma and rich flavors that embody the spirit of the season.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-17T09:54:05.864Z

This stuffing recipe has been a family tradition during the holidays for generations. It's made with love and packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy.

The Perfect Pairing for Your Holiday Meal

Homemade stuffing is not just a side dish; it's the heart of your holiday spread. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures, enhancing your turkey or holiday ham beautifully. The combination of toasted bread, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables creates a dish that is not only tasty but also deeply satisfying. Your guests will appreciate how it elevates their dining experience.

Imagine the rich scents of sage and thyme wafting through your kitchen, setting the stage for a festive meal. This stuffing recipe harmonizes with traditional holiday flavors and can adapt to your personal preferences. Whether you choose to serve it alongside the main course or enjoy it on its own, this stuffing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Flexible and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this perfect homemade stuffing is its versatility. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on seasonal offerings or personal taste. You can add diced apples for a touch of sweetness, sausage for some hearty richness, or even nuts for a delightful crunch. Each variation can provide a unique twist while still maintaining the essence of classic stuffing.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of bread, too. French baguette, sourdough, or even cornbread can alter the flavor profile, making it distinctly your own. This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity, ensuring that no two batches need ever be alike!

Make-Ahead Convenience

Preparing for holiday gatherings can be a hectic experience, but this stuffing recipe can be made ahead of time. Assemble your stuffing the day before and store it in the refrigerator. This ensures that you're not rushing around last minute on the day of your celebration. When it's time to bake, just pop it in the oven, and you'll have a delicious side dish ready to impress.

Making it ahead also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often making it taste even better the next day. Just remember to adjust the baking time when using refrigerated stuffing; it may need a bit longer in the oven to heat through completely.

Ingredients

Stuffing Ingredients

10 cups crusty bread, cubed
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh sage, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the celery and onion, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth gradually, mixing well until the bread is fully soaked.

Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes to help it crisp up.

Serve warm as a delicious side dish!

Storage and Reheating Tips

After your festivities, you might find yourself with leftover stuffing. Don't worry; it keeps wonderfully! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To enjoy it later, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This preserves its delightful texture and flavor, allowing you to relive those holiday moments long after the celebration.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Divide the stuffing into portions, place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, and label them with the date. Frozen stuffing can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it as you normally would.

Serving Suggestions

This stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making it a flexible addition to your holiday table. Serve it alongside a golden-brown turkey, glazed ham, or even a vegetarian shepherd's pie for a comforting meal. The stuffing's flavorful profile complements rich meats wonderfully, enhancing their savory notes.

Consider serving it with a side of cranberry sauce or a zesty salad to balance the meal's richness. The combination of textures and flavors will create a well-rounded plate that guests will love. Plus, you can sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top just before serving for a vibrant touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it on the day of serving.

→ What type of bread works best?

Crusty bread like sourdough or French bread works best for texture and flavor.