This savory herb stuffing is full of flavor and perfect for any meal! With fresh herbs and toasted bread, it brings warmth to the table.
I love how this stuffing makes my kitchen smell amazing! It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Pair it with turkey or enjoy it on its own—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-Old Bread: The key to great stuffing is using day-old bread, like white or sourdough. It soaks up all the flavors without getting mushy. If you don’t have day-old bread, feel free to use fresh bread; just toast it in the oven first!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try olive oil. It works well and adds a nice flavor too. For dairy-free, use a plant-based butter.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary make this stuffing aromatic and flavorful. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs work too, just use less since they’re more concentrated. I often adjust herbs based on what I have on hand.
Broth: Chicken broth brings depth, but vegetable broth is a good swap for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth will give the best flavor, but store-bought works just fine. Adjust the amount based on how moist you prefer your stuffing.
How Can I Ensure My Stuffing Is Not Soggy?
To prevent soggy stuffing, focus on a few key steps. Start with properly toasted bread; it should be dry and crisp. Gradually add broth to achieve your desired moisture level.
- Toast the bread cubes until golden to help absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- Add broth slowly, mixing as you go. You want the stuffing moist but not swimming in liquid.
- Cover with foil while baking to lock in moisture, then uncover to crisp the top towards the end.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect stuffing every time. Enjoy!
How to Make Savory Herb Stuffing?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups day-old bread cubes (white or sourdough bread)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust as needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory herb stuffing takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 45 minutes of baking time. So you’ll spend around 1 hour total to have a delicious stuffing ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Toasting the Bread:
Spread the bread cubes evenly on a large baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them toast for about 10-15 minutes until they are lightly golden and crisp. This step will help the bread hold its shape when mixed with the broth later. Once toasted, take them out and set them aside to cool.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and aromatic. Remove from heat when done.
4. Mixing the Stuffing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Stir well to make sure every piece of bread gets some of that yummy flavor. Now, add in the chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
5. Adding the Eggs and Broth:
Crack the eggs into a small bowl and beat them gently. Then, pour the beaten eggs into the bread mixture and give it a good stir. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth a little at a time, mixing lightly until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. You might not need all of the broth, so add until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Baking the Stuffing:
Transfer the stuffing mixture to your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover it with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake it for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
7. Serving:
Once baked, take the stuffing out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle. Now you’re ready to serve this delightful savory herb stuffing as the perfect side dish!
This savory herb stuffing is not just for the holidays; it’s great for any cozy meal! Enjoy the fragrant herbs and comforting flavors that make every bite irresistible.
Can I Use Fresh Bread Instead of Day-Old Bread?
Yes, you can use fresh bread! Just make sure to toast it in the oven for 10-15 minutes until it’s lightly golden and crisp. This helps it absorb the broth without becoming too soggy.
How Can I Make This Stuffing Vegetarian?
To make this stuffing vegetarian, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. The flavor will remain rich and delicious!
Can I Prepare the Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffing, place it in the baking dish, and then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a bit more broth if it seems dry after sitting overnight.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or reheat in the microwave for a quick option.