This Savory Herb Stuffing is a warm, cozy dish that brings the taste of home to your table. With fresh herbs, soft bread, and a hint of broth, it’s simply delightful!
It’s the perfect side for Thanksgiving or any family meal. I often find myself sneaking spoonfuls when no one is watching. Can you blame me? 😄
Making this stuffing is super easy! Just combine everything, bake, and enjoy the tasty aroma filling your kitchen. It’s a simple way to add comfort to your meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: White or sourdough bread works best for a fluffy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free bread—just make sure it’s also day-old to help it hold up well!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control of the seasoning. You can use olive oil or margarine as a dairy-free alternative!
Onions & Celery: Yellow onions and celery create a classic flavor base. Feeling adventurous? Try using shallots or leeks for a unique twist!
Fresh Herbs: Sage, parsley, and thyme elevate the flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, but fresh ones really make a difference!
Broth: Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth brings moisture. Homemade broth is great if you have it, but any store-bought kind will work just fine.
Eggs: The eggs help bind the stuffing. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a replacement!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Stuffing?
Getting the right texture is essential for stuffing that everyone will love. Aim for a mix of crispy outside and soft inside. Here’s how:
- Toast the bread cubes for a dry, sturdy base. This step keeps them from getting soggy!
- Combine wet ingredients gently; ensure the bread is moist but not swimming. Gradually pour in the broth!
- Let it rest a bit before serving. This helps the stuffing firm up and helps flavors mingle.
With these tips, you’ll have stuffing that everyone will be coming back for seconds—trust me!
How to Make Savory Herb Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 cups cubed day-old bread (about 1-inch cubes, preferably white or sourdough)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 medium onions)
- 1 1/2 cups celery, finely chopped (about 4 stalks)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare all your ingredients and about 1 hour total for baking. So, in roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious savory herb stuffing ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the stuffing to golden perfection. While your oven warms up, lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar casserole dish.
2. Toast the Bread:
Spread the cubed bread evenly on a large baking sheet and pop it in the oven. Toast the bread cubes for about 10-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You want them to be dry and lightly golden. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt your unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook these together for about 8-10 minutes until they’re softened and the kitchen smells wonderful. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh herbs (sage, parsley, and thyme), and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor!
4. Combine Bread and Veggies:
In a very large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable-herb mixture. This is where all the deliciousness comes together, so mix it well!
5. Mix in the Broth and Eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together, making sure the bread is moistened but not soggy. Add more broth if needed, but remember to go slow!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Once combined, taste your mixture to check if it needs any more salt or pepper. Then, transfer everything to your prepared baking dish and cover it with foil to keep moisture in while baking.
7. Bake:
Place the covered dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The top should be beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the stuffing from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade savory herb stuffing!
This savory herb stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s a flavor-packed experience that complements any meal, especially during festive gatherings! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
It’s best to use day-old bread for stuffing. Fresh bread can be too moist and may result in a soggy texture. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out overnight to dry, or toast it as instructed in the recipe!
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Stuffing?
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries. You can also use flavored broth instead of plain chicken or vegetable broth!
Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian or Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer and use olive oil instead of butter.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little broth on top and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This keeps it moist and delicious!
