This Savory Herb Stuffing is a treat for your taste buds! Filled with warm bread, fragrant herbs, and spices, it makes every meal special, especially during the holidays.
I love how this stuffing pairs perfectly with turkey. The smell while it’s baking is pure happiness! Just be ready to share, because it goes quick! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect for stuffing because it holds up well when moistened. I love using sourdough for its tangy flavor. If you’re gluten-free, gluten-free bread works too!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using olive oil or a non-dairy butter substitute.
Onions and Celery: These aromatics build a base for flavor. If you’re short on celery, you can add more onion or even green bell peppers for a different twist!
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring vibrancy to the stuffing. If you can’t get fresh herbs, dried herbs can work in a pinch—just use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Stuffing Isn’t Soggy?
Getting the right moisture balance is key to delicious stuffing. When combining your bread and broth, it’s important to find that sweet spot. Too much broth can lead to sogginess, while too little can dry it out.
- Start by gradually adding broth, mixing gently each time.
- Check the consistency: it should be moist but not falling apart. It should hold together a bit when you squeeze it in your hands.
- If you find it’s too dry, add a splash more broth, mixing carefully.
With practice, you’ll get it just right! Enjoy your stuffing, and happy cooking!
Savory Herb Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 cups cubed day-old bread (white or sourdough work well)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 medium onions)
- 1 1/2 cups celery, finely chopped (about 3 stalks)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory herb stuffing takes about 20 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 1 hour. You’ll spend a little time chopping the veggies and sautéing them, but the result is worth it for that delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your cubed day-old bread on a large baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until it’s lightly toasted. Stir halfway to ensure even toasting. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté them for about 8-10 minutes until they are softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is nice and fragrant.
3. Mix in the Herbs:
Now add the freshly chopped parsley, thyme, sage, and rosemary to the sautéed vegetable mixture. Cook for about a minute to let all those amazing herbal smells infuse through the sauté. It will be delicious!
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, transfer your toasted bread cubes. Add in the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the top and give everything a good toss to make sure it’s well combined.
5. Add the Broth and Eggs:
In another bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth and the beaten eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread and vegetables, stirring gently as you go. You want the bread to be moist but not soggy; it should hold together when squeezed.
6. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Bake it uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, remove your savory herb stuffing from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting side dish with your favorite roast or during a festive meal!
Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful, herb-infused savory stuffing — it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Stuffing?
Absolutely! While day-old white or sourdough bread works great, you can use whole wheat, cornbread, or even a mix of different breads for unique flavors and textures. Just make sure the bread is a bit stale to absorb the broth well!
Can I Make Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffing up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a bit more broth if it seems dry, and pop it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or you can microwave individual portions.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
Feel free to get creative! Add dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a hint of sweetness, toss in nuts for crunch, or even include cooked sausage for heartiness. Adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste as well!
