Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving stuffing in white casserole dish
Classic Thanksgiving stuffing baked to golden perfection

Nothing says cozy holiday comfort like a warm, herby, buttery Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving feast. This classic dish brings together toasted bread cubes, sautéed onions, celery, fresh herbs, melted butter, and savory broth baked to golden perfection.

It’s the kind of recipe that fills the house with nostalgic aromas and instantly feels like family. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or preparing a simple meal at home, this stuffing is flavorful, fluffy on the inside, and deliciously crisp on top exactly how Thanksgiving stuffing should taste. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to be the dish everyone goes back for.

Want an easy fall treat? Try these Thanksgiving No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls

Thanksgiving stuffing in white casserole dish
Classic Thanksgiving stuffing baked to golden perfection

What Is Stuffing / Why It’s Special

Stuffing is a traditional Thanksgiving favorite made with cubes of bread soaked in broth and mixed with aromatics, herbs, and butter all baked until crisp and golden on top with a soft, savory interior. It’s a dish built on flavor, comfort, and simplicity.

For a simple and cozy pastry idea, enjoy the Thanksgiving Apple Cinnamon Roll

Why It’s Special

  • Perfect balance of crispy top + soft middle.
  • Customizable: buttery, herby, moist, or crunchy.
  • Easy to scale for large gatherings.
  • A nostalgic, warm, family-centered comfort dish.
  • Pairs with turkey, chicken, ham, or veggie mains.
Thanksgiving stuffing in white casserole dish
Save This Classic Thanksgiving stuffing baked to golden perfection

Need a quick and creamy fall dessert? Try the Thanksgiving Cream Cheese Caramel Apple Dip

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bread Base

  • 10 cups dried bread cubes (sourdough, white, or French bread)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for toasting)

Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Herbs

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried rosemary

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 2–3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Craving warm fall flavor? Don’t miss the Thanksgiving Apple Crumble Cheesecake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Bread

Use dried bread cubes. If your bread is fresh, bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 20 minutes to dry. This allows the stuffing to absorb flavor without turning mushy.

Step 2 – Cook the Aromatics

Melt butter in a large skillet. Add onions and celery, cook 8–10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and herbs, cooking 1–2 minutes more.

Step 3 – Combine the Mixture

In a giant bowl, place dried bread cubes. Pour aromatics over the top. Add broth gradually, tossing gently to avoid breaking the bread. Mix in beaten eggs for structure.

Step 4 – Adjust Moisture Level

For softer stuffing → add more broth
For crispier stuffing → add less broth

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5 – Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20 minutes until crispy on top.

Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It

Tips

  • Use day-old bread for perfect texture.
  • Sauté aromatics slowly for maximum flavor.
  • Taste the broth before adding seasoning matters.
  • Let stuffing rest 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

  • Sausage Stuffing: Add browned sausage.
  • Cornbread Stuffing: Replace half the bread with cornbread.
  • Vegetarian Stuffing: Use veggie broth + extra herbs.
  • Mushroom Stuffing: Add sautéed mushrooms for richness.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Classic Thanksgiving flavor.
  • Easy to make ahead.
  • Perfectly cozy and aromatic.
  • Ideal for feeding a crowd.

✨Speed-Batch Stuffing for Big Gatherings

If you’re hosting 10–20 guests, regular recipes won’t scale easily. This method ensures perfect results even in large quantities:

How to Speed-Batch

  • Use two baking dishes instead of one for even crisping.
  • Sauté aromatics in a large pot instead of skillet.
  • Mix bread + broth in batches to avoid mushiness.
  • Bake dishes side-by-side for identical texture.

This gives professional-level consistency without extra work perfect for big family dinners.

✨International Flavor Swap Stuffing

Mediterranean Stuffing

  • Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, feta.

Mexican Stuffing

  • Add roasted corn, cilantro, poblano peppers, cumin.

Asian-Inspired Stuffing

  • Add soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, scallions.

These variations bring fresh twists to a Thanksgiving classic perfect for families who want something unique but still comforting.

FAQs

Can stuffing be made ahead?

Yes, assemble, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

What bread works best?

Sourdough, French bread, Italian bread firm, crusty loaves.

How do I make it extra crispy?

Use a larger baking dish so more stuffing touches the hot surface.

Can I freeze stuffing?

Absolutely. Freeze unbaked or baked stuffing up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Classic, comforting, and completely customizable, this Stuffing Recipe Thanksgiving brings together everything we love about holiday food buttery aromatics, toasted bread, warm spices, and fluffy texture. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or adding your own twist, this stuffing guarantees a cozy, delicious centerpiece your guests will adore.

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