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Buttery Herb Stuffing

Buttery Herb Stuffing

Buttery Herb Stuffing is a comforting and flavorful side dish combining fresh herbs, golden butter, and crispy bread cubes. Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, it offers a moist, savory interior with a crunchy top, delivering homestyle goodness that’s easily customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 6 cups stale bread cubes (day-old French baguette or sourdough recommended)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (for added crunch)
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries or 1/2 cup chopped apples (for fruit twist)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese
  • Gluten-free bread cubes (to make it gluten-free)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread cubes: Cut stale bread into bite-sized cubes. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until lightly golden and crisp to lock in texture and avoid sogginess.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and parsley—to release their savory aroma.
  3. Combine the mixture: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed herb butter mixture over the bread. Gradually add warm chicken or vegetable broth while gently tossing to moisten the cubes without making them soggy.
  4. Season and bake: Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Transfer the stuffing to a buttered baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy, while the inside remains tender and flavorful.

Notes

  • Use stale bread that is 1 to 2 days old for best absorption without becoming mushy.
  • Add broth slowly and gently toss to ensure the stuffing stays moist but not soggy.
  • Fresh herbs provide brighter, more vibrant flavors than dried; if using dried, reduce quantity to one-third.
  • Don’t skimp on butter—it is essential for richness and texture.
  • Cover the dish with foil during the initial baking to maintain moisture, then uncover to crisp the top.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttery herb stuffing, stuffing recipe, holiday side dish, savory stuffing, herb stuffing, gluten free stuffing, vegetarian stuffing, comfort food