Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This herb stuffing is simple to prepare and packed with rich, homemade flavor. It uses everyday ingredients and can easily be customized to suit your taste. The combination of herbs and buttery bread creates a delicious balance of crispy edges and soft, flavorful centers. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide range of main courses.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bread cubes (day-old or slightly stale)
butter or olive oil
onion
celery
garlic
chicken or vegetable broth
fresh parsley
fresh thyme
fresh sage
salt
black pepper
Directions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until slightly crisp if they are not already stale.
In a large skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add chopped fresh parsley, thyme, and sage, stirring to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a large bowl with the bread cubes.
Pour in the broth gradually, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes, for a total time of about 45 minutes.
Variations
Add cooked sausage for a richer, more savory stuffing.
Include chopped apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Use different herbs such as rosemary for a deeper flavor.
Add mushrooms for an earthy twist.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
Storage/Reheating
Store herb stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Add a splash of broth before reheating to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I make stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it ahead and bake just before serving.
What type of bread works best?
Sturdy breads like sourdough or French bread work best.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I prevent soggy stuffing?
Add the broth gradually and avoid over-soaking the bread.
Can I freeze stuffing?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Should stuffing be covered while baking?
You can cover it for a softer texture or leave it uncovered for a crisp top.
Can I add eggs to stuffing?
Yes, eggs can help bind the mixture for a firmer texture.
How do I get crispy edges?
Bake uncovered and spread the stuffing evenly in the dish.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use smaller amounts since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What dishes pair well with stuffing?
It pairs well with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian mains.
Conclusion
Easy herb stuffing is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory herbs and satisfying texture, it brings warmth and tradition to the table while remaining simple to prepare and customize.
PrintEasy Herb Stuffing
Easy herb stuffing is a warm and savory side dish made with seasoned bread, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs for a comforting classic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
- 6 cups bread cubes (day-old or slightly stale)
- 4 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 cup onion (chopped)
- 1 cup celery (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for about 10 minutes if not already stale.
- In a skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and celery, cooking until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add parsley, thyme, and sage, mixing well.
- Transfer mixture to a large bowl with bread cubes.
- Gradually add broth, mixing until moist but not soggy.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and slightly crisp on top.
Notes
- Add sausage, apples, or dried cranberries for variation.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Add broth before reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
