Classic Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe

Buttery Herb Stuffing is a timeless holiday classic that brings warmth, comfort, and flavor to the table. With its golden buttery bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and savory seasonings, this dish is the perfect complement to turkey, chicken, or any festive roast. Unlike complicated stuffing recipes that require a long list of ingredients, this version keeps it simple while delivering maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic holiday flavors: sage, rosemary, thyme, and butter come together beautifully.
• Simple and budget-friendly: made with everyday ingredients you likely already have.
• Versatile: serve it with turkey, chicken, or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish.
• Perfect texture: moist inside with a lightly crisp top.
• Make-ahead friendly: assemble it the day before and bake when needed.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf day-old French or Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake 10–15 minutes until slightly dried. Remove and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add onion and celery; cook until soft, about 6–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and herbs; cook another minute until fragrant.
3. Place bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the butter and herb mixture, then add chicken broth. Stir gently until the bread is evenly moistened.
4. Mix in the beaten eggs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Bread options: try sourdough for a tangy flavor, brioche for a rich texture, or cornbread for Southern flair.
• Vegetarian version: use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, dried cranberries, or toasted pecans make tasty additions.
• Make ahead: assemble the stuffing a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave smaller portions.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

This Buttery Herb Stuffing pairs beautifully with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Mashed potatoes and homemade gravy
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet-tart contrast
• Roasted vegetables or green bean casserole
• A fresh garden salad to balance the richness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Yes, but it’s best to dry it in the oven first. Using slightly stale bread ensures the stuffing doesn’t turn mushy when baked with broth.

Can I make this stuffing in advance?

Absolutely. You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving. This makes holiday prep much easier.

Can I stuff this inside a turkey?

Yes, but food safety experts recommend baking stuffing separately to ensure it reaches a safe temperature without overcooking the bird. If you prefer inside-the-bird stuffing, use a thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free bread. The recipe works the same way, but the texture may vary slightly depending on the bread used.

Ready to Make It?

This Buttery Herb Stuffing is the holiday side dish that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and rich flavor, it’s a recipe that brings comfort and tradition to your table. Save this recipe now so you’ll have it ready for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family dinner.

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