Easy Stuffing Recipe

I have to tell you, this Easy Stuffing Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites for adding that cozy, comforting touch to any meal. There’s something so soul-satisfying about that perfect blend of tender celery and onions mixed with golden buttery bread cubes soaking up flavorful broth, baked to crispy, warm perfection. Whenever I make it, whether for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, it fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings everyone to the table with smiles. This recipe’s simplicity and classic flavors make it a total win in my book, and I just can’t wait to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Stuffing Recipe

What I really adore about this stuffing recipe is its balance of flavors and textures. The blend of sautéed yellow onions and celery, infused with poultry seasoning or a hint of sage, gently softens alongside the crispy bread cubes. When you add the broth just right, the cubes absorb that moisture without turning mushy, creating this beautiful contrast between moist, flavorful bites and satisfyingly crispy edges. It’s that combination that gets me every time—it’s traditional, yet feels fresh and homemade in every mouthful.

Another thing I find fantastic about this Easy Stuffing Recipe is how incredibly straightforward it is. The prep involves just chopping, melting butter, mixing, and baking—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want a comforting side without fussing over dozens of steps. Plus, I love pulling it out for holidays, family get-togethers, or even a cozy weeknight meal. It stands out because it’s reliable, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser without any stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this stuffing is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in the final taste and texture. These simple staples come together to create a harmonious dish that looks as inviting as it tastes.

• 2 small yellow onions, diced: These add a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed until tender.
• 4 ribs celery, diced: Celery brings a crisp, fresh bite and subtle earthiness that balances the richness.
• ⅔ cup butter: The secret to that velvety richness and golden color.
• 1 ½ teaspoons poultry seasoning or ½ teaspoon ground sage: Classic herbs that evoke warm, savory flavors.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the ingredients.
• 12 cups dry bread cubes: The heart of the dish—cubed bread soaks up all the flavor and creates delightful texture.
• 2 to 4 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth; adjust according to how moist you want your stuffing.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley: For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary) or 1 teaspoon dried herbs: Adds complexity and that signature stuffing aroma.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get it ready early so the stuffing bakes evenly and develops that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, poultry seasoning, and rosemary if you’re using it. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook gently until the vegetables are tender and fragrant—this usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. This slow cooking really brings out the sweetness and softens the celery perfectly.

Step 3: Let the onion and celery mixture cool slightly so it doesn’t make the bread cubes too soggy when mixed.

Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the dry bread cubes with the cooled vegetable mixture, chopped parsley, and your chosen fresh herbs. This is where the layers of flavor start to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth over the bread mixture and toss gently to coat. Continue adding the remaining broth a little at a time, tossing gently after each addition. Your goal is to moisten the bread cubes evenly without making them soggy—sometimes you won’t need all the broth, so keep an eye on the texture.

Step 6: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your liking—this is key to bring all the flavors together.

Step 7: Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and, if you like, dot the top with a little extra butter for added richness.

Step 8: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes to let the top get that beautiful crispness.

Servings and Timing

This Easy Stuffing Recipe makes about 8 generous servings, perfect for feeding a family or a gathering of friends. The prep time is quite manageable—around 15 minutes—most of which is chopping and mixing. The cooking time takes about 55 minutes, including baking and the final crisping step, so the total time you’ll spend is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. There’s no lengthy resting or cooling time needed; you can serve it right from the oven for the best warmth and texture.

How to Serve This Easy Stuffing Recipe

I love serving this stuffing alongside classic roasted turkey or chicken, especially during holidays when everyone’s gathered around the table. It’s such a perfect complement because it soaks up any gravy or juices, making the whole plate sing with flavor. I also like pairing it with green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a colorful and tasty balance. For a homey weeknight meal, it’s great with baked pork chops and a simple salad.

When it comes to presentation, I find sprinkling a bit of fresh parsley or chopped herbs on top right before serving really brightens the dish and adds a fresh pop of color. Serving it in a rustic casserole dish brings a homely charm. Portion-wise, I usually dish out about one to one-and-a-half cups per person; it’s a hearty side that everyone appreciates.

For drinks, this stuffing pairs wonderfully with a light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the richness beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a whiskey sour or an herbal gin-based drink brings out the savory herbs nicely. Of course, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon also refreshes the palate, especially during festive occasions.

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Stuffing Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. If you want a vegetarian version, I swap the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth and skip the poultry seasoning, using herbs like sage and thyme to boost flavor. For gluten-free friends, there are fantastic gluten-free bread cubes available, which work just as well without sacrificing texture.

If you like a little extra flavor complexity, I’ve experimented by adding cooked sausage or mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables, which adds meaty warmth and umami depth. Another fun twist is stirring in dried cranberries or chopped nuts for festive occasions to bring a touch of sweetness and crunch.

For cooking methods, while I usually bake it in a traditional casserole dish, sometimes I make individual stuffing muffins in a muffin tin for a cute, portable presentation that crisps up nicely on all sides. I’ve even prepared it in a slow cooker, which takes longer but results in a wonderfully moist and tender stuffing if you’re not pressed for time.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Whenever I have leftovers, I let the stuffing cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic container. Stored this way, it keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. I recommend using containers that seal tightly to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully, which is great for making ahead. I portion the cooled stuffing into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftover stuffing is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with foil to retain moisture, and heat for 20 to 25 minutes. If you want to restore that lovely crispness, uncover it for the last 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture a bit soggy, but if you’re short on time, microwave in short bursts with a damp paper towel over the dish to help keep moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use day-old bread for this stuffing recipe?

Absolutely! Day-old or slightly stale bread actually works best because it soaks up the broth without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out in the oven at a low temperature before making the stuffing.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular bread. Make sure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free as well. The texture and flavor remain deliciously satisfying.

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Yes, you can mix all the ingredients and assemble the stuffing a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and then bake it when you’re ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled straight from the fridge.

What if I don’t have poultry seasoning?

Don’t worry! You can simply use ground sage or a mix of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. It’s all about layering those warm, savory flavors, so experiment with what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Definitely. Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The sautéed vegetables and herbs will still provide tons of flavor for a satisfying vegan stuffing.

Conclusion

I honestly can’t recommend this Easy Stuffing Recipe enough for anyone wanting a dependable, flavorful, and totally comforting side dish. It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it brings people together around good food without any fuss. Give it a try next time you want that perfect balance of savory, buttery, and herbaceous goodness—you won’t be disappointed!

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