If you are on the hunt for that perfect blend of savory comfort and fragrant herbs, look no further than this Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe. It’s a timeless dish that brings the warm, homey flavors of freshly sautéed onions, celery, and an aromatic mix of herbs all embraced by soft, moist bread cubes. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this recipe is a beloved staple that never fails to delight and elevate any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the creamy richness of butter to the fresh zing of herbs, creating a balance of taste, texture, and color that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- 3/4 cup butter (1.5 sticks): Provides a rich, silky base that perfectly sautés the veggies and infuses the stuffing with flavor.
- 2 medium onions, diced (about 2.5 cups): Adds sweetness and depth when softened; the foundation of that signature stuffing flavor.
- 4 ribs celery, diced (about 2 cups): Offers a slight crunch and freshness to balance the softness of the bread.
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary), chopped: Brings that beautiful herbal aroma and earthy notes essential to classic stuffing.
- 1.5 teaspoons poultry seasoning: A seasoning blend that enhances the poultry-friendly flavors, making this stuffing irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates and balances flavors throughout the dish.
- Ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 12 cups dry bread cubes: The canvas for all the flavors to soak in — ideally, use a sturdy white or sourdough bread.
- 2 cups chicken broth (or more as needed): Moistened the bread perfectly, lending savory juiciness without sogginess.
How to Make Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing your 9 by 13-inch baking dish ensures your stuffing won’t stick during its golden-brown transformation. This simple step is the foundation of a perfect bake.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt your butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Toss in the diced onions, celery, fresh herbs, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cooking these together for about 10 to 12 minutes softens the veggies wonderfully and awakens those fragrant scents that signal comfort food bliss is coming your way.
Step 3: Bring Everything Together
Transfer the flavorful vegetable mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the dry bread cubes, and toss gently to combine. This is where all those fresh, savory components start to mingle, coating every cube with deliciousness and anticipation.
Step 4: Add Moisture with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth gradually, stirring carefully to uniformly moisten the bread without drenching it. The goal is tender, flavorful bread with just the right amount of moisture to meld all those tastes into one unforgettable dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top develops a beautifully crisp, golden crust. This textural contrast is pure stuffing magic!
How to Serve Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme on top makes for a bright, inviting presentation. If you want to go the extra mile, add a handful of toasted pecans or chopped cranberries to the top right before serving to introduce a touch of crunch or a hint of sweetness.
Side Dishes
Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, but don’t stop there. It’s just as lovely alongside pork tenderloin, a juicy roast beef, or even as a hearty stuffing for roasted vegetables. For sides, think green bean casserole, glazed carrots, or even a fresh salad for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your stuffing in hollowed-out baked apples or small ramekins for individual portions. Or, use it as a stuffing in bell peppers or mushrooms for an elegant twist. It really shines when you get creative with the presentation, making any occasion feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture and keep that crispy top by warming it uncovered in the oven.
Freezing
This stuffing freezes like a charm. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results; it’s a great way to enjoy this comforting dish any time.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the stuffing evenly in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Warm at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. This keeps the flavors fresh and textures delightful.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this stuffing?
Absolutely! While sturdy white or sourdough bread is ideal for absorbing flavors without becoming mushy, you can experiment with whole wheat, multigrain, or even gluten-free bread to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep all the delicious flavors intact while making it vegetarian-friendly.
How do I keep the stuffing from becoming soggy?
Moistening the bread evenly without over-saturating it is key. Add the chicken broth gradually and gently toss, so the bread is soft but not drowning in liquid. Covering the dish during baking traps steam, while uncovering it towards the end crisps up the top.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the entire stuffing a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a bit more broth if it has dried out, then bake as directed. This makes holiday meal prep easier and stress-free.
What fresh herbs work best for this Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe?
Sage, thyme, and rosemary are the classic choices, bringing that comforting, earthy aroma that defines a traditional stuffing. You can also experiment with parsley, marjoram, or tarragon for subtle variations that keep the dish exciting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe is calling your name. It’s simple to make, loaded with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with cozy flavors that complement any main course wonderfully. Don’t hesitate to try it out—it’s guaranteed to become one of your all-time favorites!
Print
Classic Herb Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8.8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic stuffing made with sautéed onions, celery, fresh herbs, and poultry seasoning mixed into bread cubes, moistened with chicken broth, and baked to a golden, crispy perfection. This comforting side dish is perfect for holiday meals or any occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 2 medium onions, diced (about 2.5 cups)
- 4 ribs celery, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (such as sage, thyme, or rosemary)
- 1.5 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter (1.5 sticks)
- 12 cups dry bread cubes
- 2 cups chicken broth (or up to 2 cups more as needed)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onions, celery, fresh herbs, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Combine with bread: Transfer the cooked vegetable and herb mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the dry bread cubes and toss well to evenly combine the ingredients.
- Add chicken broth: Gradually pour in enough chicken broth to moisten the bread cubes evenly, stirring gently to avoid breaking the bread down too much. The bread should be moist but not soggy.
- Bake: Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking 10 to 15 minutes more until the top turns golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Use stale or day-old bread cubes for best texture; fresh bread may become too mushy.
- You can add cooked sausage or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adjust the amount of broth to keep the stuffing moist but not overly wet.
- Fresh herbs can be varied based on preference, such as parsley or marjoram.
