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Buttery Herb Stuffing

Buttery Herb Stuffing

Buttery Herb Stuffing is a cozy and fragrant side dish featuring tender bread cubes soaked in rich butter, fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley, and savory seasonings. This recipe delivers a moist interior with a slightly crisp golden top, perfect for holiday feasts or comforting family dinners. Easy to customize and make ahead, this stuffing pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, baked ham, or vegetarian entrees.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 6 cups day-old bread cubes (approximately 1 inch)

Butter & Aromatics

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for sautéing)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cut day-old bread into roughly one-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and air-dry for several hours or lightly toast in the oven to ensure they absorb moisture without becoming soggy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant but still tender.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the bread cubes, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the bread.
  4. Add Broth and Butter: Slowly pour in warm broth and melted butter while stirring carefully. Moisten the bread cubes until the mixture feels moist but holds its shape when pressed. Avoid oversaturating to prevent sogginess.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil then bake for an additional 15 minutes to develop a golden, crisp top.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best texture to prevent mushiness.
  • Add broth gradually to avoid soggy stuffing; it should be moist but not drenched.
  • Fresh herbs provide superior fragrance and flavor compared to dried.
  • Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes before baking to allow flavors to meld.
  • Baking covered locks in moisture; uncover at the end to crisp the top.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttery herb stuffing, holiday stuffing, Thanksgiving side dish, herb stuffing, easy stuffing recipe