The BEST Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
The BEST Thanksgiving stuffing! Based on my family’s classic recipe, it’s rich and savory, made with fresh herbs, celery, butter, and leeks.
This stuffing recipe is my favorite Thanksgiving side dish. Based on my grandma’s homemade stuffing, it’s buttery and flavorful, crafted with celery, leeks (or onions), fresh herbs, and dried bread cubes. As it bakes, it gets crisp and golden on top but remains moist and gooey in the middle.
If you’re looking for traditional stuffing to complete your Thanksgiving menu, this simple yet classic recipe is bound to become a favorite. Make-ahead tips and variations can be found below!
Stuffing Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this homemade stuffing:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bread (crusty sourdough or French) | 1 small loaf (1 pound) |
| Butter | ½ cup + 1 tbsp melted for topping |
| Leeks | 2, halved and thinly sliced |
| Celery | 4 stalks, diced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, chopped |
| Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, parsley, rosemary) | Various, detailed in recipe |
| Vegetable broth | 1½ to 2 cups |
| Eggs | 2, beaten |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make Stuffing
Here’s a simple overview of how to prepare the stuffing:
1. Dry the Bread
- Option 1 – Plan Ahead: Cut or tear the bread into cubes a day or two in advance. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and let it sit uncovered on your counter to dry out.
- Option 2 – Oven Method: Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes at 350°F to dry them out.
2. Cook the Veggies
Sauté the leeks, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the dried bread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs. Pour 1½ cups of broth over the bread and mix. Add the beaten eggs and incorporate; the bread should be moist. If it feels dry, add more broth.
4. Transfer and Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, drizzle with melted butter, cover, and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F. For a crispy top, uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Enjoy your gratitude-filled feast!
Stuffing Recipe Variations
- Use onions instead of leeks: Substitute with 1 yellow onion, chopped.
- Dried herbs instead of fresh: Use 1 to 2 tablespoons mixed dried sage, thyme, rosemary, or poultry seasoning.
- Skip the eggs: Add extra broth as needed to moisten before baking.
- Make it vegan: Replace the eggs with extra broth and use olive oil or vegan butter.
How to Store and Make Ahead
- A few hours ahead: Prepare as directed, cover, and refrigerate until about an hour before your meal. Then bake.
- A day ahead: Fully assemble and bake, cover, refrigerate overnight, then reheat covered until warmed through.
Leftover stuffing can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven on low heat.
More Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes
This delicious stuffing is perfect for Thanksgiving and pairs well with these additional Turkey Day side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Mashed Potatoes
- Green Bean Casserole
- Sweet Potato Casserole