The Best Homemade Stuffing Recipe

Gather around for the best homemade stuffing recipe—savory, crispy, and packed with flavor, but the secret ingredient will surprise you.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade stuffing recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table, making it a favorite for holidays and family dinners. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a crowd-pleaser.

  • It’s super easy to make, with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
  • The mix of herbs and spices creates a cozy, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
  • You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, like sausage or dried fruit, to make it uniquely yours.

Recipe

classic homemade holiday stuffing

This homemade stuffing recipe is a classic side dish perfect for holidays or family dinners. Packed with savory flavors and a comforting texture, it’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf (16 oz) day-old bread, cubed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes until slightly dry.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, broth, eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Notes:

  • For extra flavor, add cooked sausage or dried cranberries.
  • Use stale bread for better texture.

Equipment:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Baking sheet

Time:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking time: 50 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

8-10 servings

Nutrition

Homemade stuffing provides a comforting side dish with essential nutrients. Each ingredient contributes to its overall nutritional profile.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories220
Protein5g
Carbs30g
Fat9g
Fiber2g
Sodium450mg

What To Serve With It

A roast chicken pairs perfectly with homemade stuffing—it’s classic comfort food that makes the meal feel extra special. If you’re looking for lighter options, roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add color and crunch. Don’t forget a simple green salad to balance everything out—it keeps the plate fresh and satisfying.

Roast Chicken Pairing

When I’m making roast chicken, I always think about what dishes will make it shine—something to balance its savory richness. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while buttery mashed potatoes soak up the juices. I love adding roasted carrots for sweetness or garlicky sautéed spinach for depth. Crusty bread is a must for mopping up the pan drippings. If I want something heartier, wild rice pilaf or creamy polenta works wonders. The key is keeping sides simple so the chicken stays the star. A squeeze of lemon at the end ties everything together beautifully.

Vegetable Side Options

Roast chicken deserves sides that bring color, texture, and freshness to the table, and vegetables are perfect for the job. I love pairing it with roasted carrots and parsnips—they caramelize beautifully and add a sweet, earthy balance. A simple green bean almondine, with its crunch and brightness, always feels like a win. Roasted Brussels sprouts with a balsamic glaze are my go-to when I want something slightly tangy. For a lighter option, a crisp Caesar salad with shaved Parmesan works wonders. Don’t forget mashed sweet potatoes; their creaminess complements the stuffing perfectly. These sides make the meal feel complete and satisfying.

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