If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side that feels like a warm hug on your plate, this Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with fragrant herbs and rich, melted butter soaking into crisp-topped cubed bread, it strikes the perfect balance between savory and hearty. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or simply craving a classic dish that pairs beautifully with any meal, this stuffing will quickly become your go-to for that irresistible taste of home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that signature blend of buttery richness and herby aroma. Using simple, fresh components will guarantee that perfect texture and layered flavor that make Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe so special.
- 10 cups cubed day-old bread (white, sourdough, or French): A sturdy base that soaks up all the buttery, savory goodness without turning mushy.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Melts into the bread for that luscious, creamy mouthfeel classic to the recipe.
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to balance the herbs and butter.
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery: Provides subtle crunch and freshness for a delightful texture contrast.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of warmth and savory flavor to elevate the taste profile.
- 2 teaspoons dried sage: The quintessential herb in stuffing, offering an earthy, pine-like fragrance.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes a slightly minty and lemony undertone that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an aromatic, woodsy note with an herby sharpness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out and enhance all flavors.
- 2–2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Moistens the bread and infuses a savory foundation.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Helps bind the stuffing, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your stuffing won’t stick and will bake evenly with a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and celery, cooking gently for about 8 to 10 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and let it cook just another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation that infuses every bite.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Seasoning
Sprinkle in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, along with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and then remove the skillet from the heat. These herbs bring that unmistakable aromatic charm that makes this Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Bread and Sautéed Mixture
Place the cubed bread into a large mixing bowl and pour in the savory vegetable and butter mixture. Toss gently to coat the bread cubes evenly, allowing the bread’s texture to start softening with all the flavor absorption.
Step 5: Add Broth and Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs. Slowly pour this over the bread mixture and toss gently once more until everything is moistened. The goal is to have the bread moist but not soggy; add a little more broth if needed to get this perfect balance.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the combined mixture to your prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. This uncovered baking step crisps up the top to a beautiful golden brown, adding irresistible texture to your meal.
How to Serve Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds a touch of vibrant green color but also enhances the fresh herbaceous notes, making the dish look as delightful as it tastes. Feel free to get creative with other fresh herbs like chives or thyme for a different flair.
Side Dishes
This stuffing pairs like a dream with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or even a hearty vegan main if you use vegetable broth. Roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes round out a classic holiday spread perfectly. The buttery and herbal flavors complement a wide variety of mains and sides with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the stuffing inside bell peppers or in puff pastry cups for individual servings. You can also mix in cooked sausage, wild mushrooms, or dried fruits like cranberries for added texture and flavor complexity. Whichever way you choose, this Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe shines bright.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffing keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it from drying out, cover it tightly and reheat gently to maintain its moist, fluffy texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. After baking, let the stuffing cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stuffing in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually 20-30 minutes. Covering it helps retain moisture, and uncovering for the last few minutes restores that golden, crisp top we all love.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free bread in this Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the gluten-free bread you choose is sturdy enough to hold up to moistening so your stuffing doesn’t turn too mushy. Day-old bread works best.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The blend of herbs and butter still delivers full, hearty flavor.
Can I make this stuffing without eggs?
You can omit the eggs, but keep in mind they help bind the stuffing for a tender crumb. To replace eggs, you could try a flax egg or a little extra broth, but texture may vary.
How can I add more flavor or richness?
Try stirring in cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or toasted nuts before baking for extra depth. A splash of white wine in the broth can also boost flavor brilliantly.
What’s the best bread to use for stuffing?
A mix of sturdy breads like sourdough, French, and white bread gives the stuffing wonderful texture and flavor complexity. Using day-old bread helps soak up broth without becoming overly soggy.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe that invites comfort and celebration in every bite. It’s easy enough to whip up and guaranteed to fill your home with mouthwatering aromas that make any meal feel like a festive occasion. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this timeless classic a centerpiece at your table — your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
Print
Buttery Herb Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Buttery Herb Stuffing is a classic, comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals or any family dinner. Made with a mix of bread cubes sautéed in fragrant herbs and buttery vegetables, then baked to golden perfection, it offers a delightful balance of rich flavors and a moist, tender texture. Easy to prepare and customizable with optional additions like sausage or mushrooms, this stuffing is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Stuffing Ingredients
- 10 cups cubed day-old bread (white, sourdough, or French)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2–2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and celery, sauté for 8–10 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Herbs and Seasonings: Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Once combined, remove the skillet from heat to stop the cooking process.
- Combine Bread and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed bread and the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Toss to combine evenly.
- Mix Broth and Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the broth together with the lightly beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and vegetables, gently tossing until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy. Add extra broth as needed to achieve the correct moisture.
- Transfer and Bake: Place the bread mixture in the prepared baking dish, covering it with foil. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the stuffing to steam and heat through.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a mix of bread types like white, sourdough, and French for varied texture and flavor.
- You can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and bake it fresh just before serving for convenience.
- For added richness and heartiness, stir in cooked sausage or mushrooms to the bread mixture before baking.
