Go Back
A flavorful Thanksgiving stuffing, seasoned with herbs and spices, is featured in this holiday dish image.

Best Homemade Stuffing Recipe

This homemade stuffing recipe is a Thanksgiving staple, far surpassing any boxed mix. It allows for customization of flavors, textures, and ingredients, creating a cherished family tradition.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced optional
  • 1 apple, diced optional
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Foil
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly toasted and dried out.
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add mushrooms (if using) and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes more.
  3. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, herbs, spices, apples (if using), dried cranberries (if using), and nuts (if using).
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and eggs. Pour the mixture over the bread mixture and toss gently to combine.
  5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Don't overmix the stuffing to avoid a dense texture. Adjust moisture with chicken broth or bread cubes. Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. Assemble the stuffing a day or two in advance and store in the refrigerator, adding extra broth before baking. Get creative with add-ins like sausage, bacon, or oysters. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.