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: 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday feasts with this Perfect Homemade Stuffing recipe. Packed with savory herbs, fresh vegetables, and hearty bread, this stuffing is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey or ham. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite for all your festive gatherings.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T07:07:13.470Z

This stuffing recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and joy to family gatherings. The combination of herbs and vegetables perfectly complements the rich flavors of holiday meats.

The Key to Flavorful Stuffing

The essence of exceptional stuffing lies in its ingredients. Utilizing high-quality, day-old bread enhances the texture and ensures your stuffing holds its shape while absorbing all the delicious flavors. Opt for a rustic bread variety, such as sourdough or a hearty Italian loaf, which will provide a solid foundation and depth of flavor to your dish.

Fresh vegetables like onions, celery, and garlic not only contribute essential aromatics but also add moisture and sweetness. Sautéing the vegetables in butter allows them to caramelize slightly, bringing out their natural sugars and enhancing the overall taste of the stuffing.

Choosing the Right Herbs

Herbs are the backbone of any stuffing recipe, bringing complexity and warmth to each bite. Dried sage, thyme, and rosemary are traditional choices that complement the rich flavors of the holiday season. Sage imparts a slightly peppery flavor, while thyme introduces a subtle earthiness, and rosemary offers a fragrant pine-like note. Balancing these herbs can elevate your stuffing from ordinary to exceptional.

Feel free to experiment with other herbs as well. Parsley or marjoram can add fresh green notes, while the addition of poultry seasoning can enhance the savory profile, making the stuffing an ideal companion to roasted meats.

Making Ahead of Time

One of the best features of this homemade stuffing is its flexibility. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Simply follow the steps until the baking point, then cover and refrigerate the unbaked stuffing. On the day of your feast, simply pop it in the oven to warm through and achieve that coveted crispy top.

This make-ahead option not only saves you time on busy holiday cooking days but also allows for more enjoyable gatherings with friends and family. Your guests will appreciate the delicious aroma of freshly baked stuffing arriving at the table.

Ingredients

For the Stuffing

1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly browned, about 10-15 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic, sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, dried herbs, and broth. Mix until combined and season with salt and pepper.

Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the stuffing mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is crispy.

Allow the stuffing to cool for a few minutes before serving to retain its moisture.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Once the celebrations are over, you may find yourself with leftover stuffing. To store, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. Just remember to label your container with the date for easy reference.

To reheat, spread the stuffing in a baking dish, and add a splash of broth to keep it moist. Cover with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This ensures you can enjoy the flavors of your holiday meal long after the festivities have ended.

Pairing Suggestions

This Perfect Homemade Stuffing pairs exceptionally well with traditional holiday proteins. Whether you’re serving turkey, ham, or a festive roast, the savory stuffing complements the rich flavors of these meats beautifully. You can also serve it alongside vegetarian options, making it a versatile dish that suits various dietary preferences.

Consider serving your stuffing with a side of cranberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors. The sweet-tartness of the cranberries balances the savory notes, creating a harmonious experience for your palate. You can also add a green vegetable, such as green beans or Brussels sprouts, to complete your holiday plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a little extra broth before baking.

→ What type of bread works best?

Any type of hearty bread works great, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or a classic white bread.