The Ultimate Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe: A Classic Holiday Tradition
Thanksgiving stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s the heart of holiday memories, the aroma that fills your kitchen and signals that the feast is about to begin. Picture this: you’re standing in your grandmother’s kitchen, watching her carefully tear pieces of day-old bread while sharing stories of Thanksgivings past.
The butter sizzles in the pan, onions begin their magical transformation, and suddenly you understand why this simple combination of ingredients has the power to transport us back to our most cherished moments.
There’s something almost sacred about the ritual of making stuffing from scratch. It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about continuing a tradition that connects generations around the dinner table. This classic stuffing recipe captures all those warm, nostalgic feelings while delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make Thanksgiving truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just any stuffing recipe—it’s the one that will become your family’s new tradition. I’ve spent years perfecting this combination of fresh herbs, quality ingredients, and time-tested techniques to create a stuffing that’s crispy on top, tender and flavorful throughout, and absolutely irresistible.
What sets this recipe apart is the generous use of fresh herbs—sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley—that infuse every bite with authentic, earthy flavors. The combination of butter-sautéed vegetables creates a savory base that’s rich without being heavy, while the quality chicken broth ensures each piece of bread is perfectly seasoned and moist. Explore more comforting baking recipes here to complete your holiday menu with homemade goodness.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this memorable Thanksgiving stuffing:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bread (white, ciabatta, Italian, or baguette) | 1 pound | Day-old bread works best |
| Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Plus 1 tablespoon for greasing |
| Large onion | 1 (about 3½ cups chopped) | Yellow or white onion preferred |
| Celery | 2 cups (¼ inch dice) | Fresh stalks, not leaves |
| Fresh parsley | ⅓ cup, chopped | Italian flat-leaf recommended |
| Fresh sage | ¼ cup, chopped | Essential for authentic flavor |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 tablespoon, finely chopped | Remove from stems first |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tablespoon leaves | Strip leaves from stems |
| Kosher salt | 2 teaspoons | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| High-quality chicken or turkey broth | 2 cups, plus ½ cup if needed | Low-sodium recommended |
| Large eggs | 2 | Room temperature works best |
| Softened butter for greasing | 1 tablespoon | For preparing baking dish |
Discover more hearty breakfast recipes here to start your Thanksgiving morning with delicious homemade dishes that complement this traditional stuffing perfectly.
Step-by-Step Directions
Exact Timing to make Thanksgiving Stuffing
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Prepare the bread (Day before or morning of): Cut your pound of bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on baking sheets. Let them sit uncovered overnight, or dry them in a 200°F oven for 30 minutes until slightly crispy.
Preheat and prep (5 minutes): Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of softened butter.
Sauté the vegetables (12-15 minutes): In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
Add herbs and seasonings (2-3 minutes): Stir in the fresh parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the herbs release their aroma.
Combine ingredients (5 minutes): In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs, then pour over the bread mixture. Gently fold everything together until the bread is evenly moistened.
Transfer and bake (45 minutes): Spread the Thanksgiving stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Rest and serve (5 minutes): Let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the comprehensive nutritional breakdown for this traditional Thanksgiving stuffing recipe (per serving, based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 385 | 19% |
| Total Fat | 24g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 15g | 75% |
| Cholesterol | 110mg | 37% |
| Sodium | 890mg | 39% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g | 13% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5g | 9% |
| Total Sugars | 4g | – |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 720 IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 12mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 95mg | 7% |
| Iron | 2.8mg | 16% |
| Folate | 45mcg | 11% |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.4mg | 33% |
Nutritional data based on USDA standards and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. The high butter content contributes significantly to the caloric density, while fresh herbs provide essential micronutrients and antioxidants.
Healthier Alternatives
Transform your traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing into a more nutritious option without sacrificing the beloved flavors that make this dish special. These modifications can reduce calories, increase fiber, and accommodate various dietary restrictions:
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| White bread (1 lb) | Whole grain bread or cornbread | +3g fiber per serving, more B vitamins | Nuttier, heartier texture |
| Butter (1 cup) | ½ cup olive oil + ½ cup vegetable broth | Reduces saturated fat by 60% | Slightly less rich, more herb-forward |
| Regular chicken broth | Low-sodium vegetable broth | Reduces sodium by 40%, suitable for vegetarians | Clean, vegetable-forward taste |
| All bread base | 50% bread + 50% wild rice or quinoa | Increases protein and fiber significantly | Adds texture variety and earthy flavors |
| Traditional eggs | Flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water) | Vegan-friendly, adds omega-3s | Minimal change when properly mixed |
| Full butter sauté | Cooking spray + 2 tbsp butter | Reduces calories by 200 per serving | Lighter mouthfeel, herbs more prominent |
Explore more wholesome dinner recipes here to create a complete holiday menu that balances tradition with health-conscious choices.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings: This Thanksgiving stuffing serves as the ideal complement to roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken. The savory, herb-infused flavors create a harmonious bridge between the main protein and other side dishes, while the varied textures add visual appeal to your holiday plate.
Creative Serving Ideas: Consider shaping the stuffing mixture into individual portions using a muffin tin for elegant presentation, or serve it family-style in a beautiful ceramic dish garnished with fresh herb sprigs. For a modern twist, top each serving with toasted nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and seasonal flair.
Portion Planning: Plan for approximately ¾ cup per person as a side dish, though this recipe’s irresistible flavor often leads guests to request seconds. The recipe easily doubles for larger gatherings and maintains its perfect texture when scaled up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overly Wet or Dry Texture: The most frequent error is misjudging the liquid ratio in Thanksgiving stuffing. Add broth gradually and let the bread absorb it completely before adding more. The mixture should be moist but not soggy—it should hold together when gently pressed but not release excess liquid.
Insufficient Seasoning: Many home cooks underestimate the amount of seasoning needed for the quantity of bread. Taste the vegetable and herb mixture before combining with bread, and remember that the flavors will mellow during baking. Don’t be afraid to add an extra pinch of salt or herbs if needed.
Inadequate Bread Preparation: Using fresh bread instead of day-old creates a mushy texture that lacks the desired contrast between crispy top and tender interior. Always dry your bread cubes properly, either overnight or in a low oven, to achieve the signature texture that makes great stuffing memorable.
Storing Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Thanksgiving stuffing in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if the stuffing seems dry.
Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the entire stuffing mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from cold.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze baked stuffing for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a covered dish at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. The texture remains remarkably close to fresh when properly frozen and reheated.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Thanksgiving stuffing inside the turkey instead of as a side dish?
A: While traditional, cooking stuffing inside the turkey requires careful temperature monitoring to ensure the center reaches 165°F for food safety. Many chefs recommend baking Thanksgiving stuffing separately to guarantee even cooking and allow for easier serving, while still achieving that classic flavor profile.
Q: What’s the best bread to use for Thanksgiving stuffing?
A: Day-old white bread, ciabatta, or Italian bread creates the ideal texture for Thanksgiving stuffing. These breads have the right density to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. Avoid overly dense breads like pumpernickel or very light breads like sandwich bread, as they don’t provide the proper foundation for classic stuffing.
Q: How can I tell when my Thanksgiving stuffing is properly cooked?
A: Perfectly cooked Thanksgiving stuffing should have a golden-brown, slightly crispy top while remaining moist and tender throughout the interior. Insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The edges should pull slightly away from the baking dish.
Q: Can I prepare Thanksgiving stuffing for dietary restrictions like gluten-free or vegetarian diets?
A: Absolutely! For gluten-free Thanksgiving stuffing, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread or cornbread. For vegetarian versions, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensure all other ingredients align with dietary preferences. The herb and vegetable base naturally accommodates most dietary modifications while maintaining authentic flavors.
Thanksgiving Stuffing
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A timeless Thanksgiving stuffing recipe that delivers crispy top layers and tender, herb-filled center. Made with day-old bread, butter-sautéed onions and celery, and a blend of fresh sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley, this classic side will become your new holiday tradition. Perfect for holiday dinner and recipes homemade.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bread (white, ciabatta, Italian, or baguette), cut into 1-inch cubes, day-old preferred
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
- 1 large onion, about 3 1/2 cups chopped
- 2 cups celery, 1/4 inch dice
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 cups high-quality chicken or turkey broth, low-sodium recommended
- 1/2 cup additional broth, if needed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon softened butter for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and spread on baking sheets. Let sit uncovered overnight or dry in a 200°F (95°C) oven for 30 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon softened butter.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 1 cup butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery and cook 12–15 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add herbs and seasonings: Stir in parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes until herbs are aromatic.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups chicken or turkey broth and 2 eggs, then pour over the bread mixture. Gently fold until the bread is evenly moistened. Add up to 1/2 cup additional broth if mixture seems dry.
- Transfer and bake: Spread the stuffing into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. Serve warm as part of your Thanksgiving dinner.
Notes
Day-old bread absorbs the liquid without becoming mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. For a richer version, add cooked sausage or chopped apples.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: recipes for dinner, recipes homemade, recipes for Thanksgiving
