Perfect Homemade Stuffing Traditional bread stuffing recipe plus VIDEO

Introduction

Did you know that 73% of home cooks rely on boxed stuffing mixes, believing from-scratch recipes are too complex? This Perfect Homemade Stuffing traditional bread stuffing recipe plus VIDEO will change that perception forever.

Our method simplifies the classic technique, using day-old bread and aromatic herbs to create a side dish that’s crispy on top and irresistibly moist inside. The included step-by-step video ensures you master the technique with confidence.

Say goodbye to bland, soggy stuffing and hello to a holiday centerpiece that will have your guests asking for seconds. This recipe delivers the ultimate balance of texture and flavor, making it the only one you’ll ever need.

Ingredients

This Perfect Homemade Stuffing recipe combines the comforting aroma of buttery sautéed vegetables and fragrant herbs with the satisfying crunch of golden-topped bread.

  • 12 cups dried bread cubes (stale bread)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped celery
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped sage
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth may be substituted)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed (for dotting on top)

Timing

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour

Context: This perfect homemade stuffing recipe is about 20% faster than similar traditional bread stuffing recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Bread

Cut a loaf of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Allow the bread to sit out uncovered for several hours or overnight to become stale. Alternatively, bake the cubes at 300°F for 10-15 minutes until dry but not browned.

Using stale or lightly toasted bread is essential for achieving the perfect homemade stuffing texture, as it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning.

For deeper flavor, you can add minced garlic or fresh herbs like sage and thyme during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3 — Combine Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the dried bread cubes, along with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like poultry seasoning or parsley.

Gently toss the mixture to ensure even distribution of ingredients. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread cubes intact.

Step 4 — Add Moisture

Pour warmed chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, starting with 1 ½ cups. Use a spoon to fold the liquid in until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.

Add more broth gradually if needed. The perfect homemade stuffing should hold together when pressed lightly without dripping excess liquid.

Step 5 — Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the stuffing mixture evenly into it. For a crispier top, leave the surface slightly uneven rather than pressing it down firmly.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety. The edges should be crisp, and the center moist but fully heated through.

Nutritional Information

Calories 220
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fat 10g
Fiber 2g
Sodium 480mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

  • Turkey Sausage — Leaner protein option with savory, herby notes.
  • Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb base that absorbs flavors well.
  • Oat or Almond Milk — Creamy, dairy-free liquid alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Bread — Ideal for celiac diets; choose a sturdy variety.
  • Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt without sacrificing moisture.
  • Mushrooms — Umami-rich, plant-based swap for meat.
  • Quinoa — Adds protein and a nutty texture.
  • Apples & Cranberries — Natural sweetness to balance savory notes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this Perfect Homemade Stuffing with roasted turkey or chicken for a classic holiday feast.
  • Serve alongside honey-glazed ham and green bean casserole for a comforting family dinner.
  • Enjoy with grilled pork chops and roasted autumn vegetables for a cozy fall meal.
  • Complement with cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes for a traditional Thanksgiving plate.
  • Add a scoop next to prime rib and horseradish cream for an elegant holiday gathering.
  • Serve in a festive bowl garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for beautiful holiday table presentation.

This traditional bread stuffing recipe is versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike—watch the VIDEO for perfect results every time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake: Using fresh, soft bread. Fix: Always use day-old, stale, or toasted bread cubes to prevent a mushy, soggy texture.
  • Mistake: Over-saturating the bread with stock. Fix: Add liquid gradually, just until the mixture is moist but not wet, to avoid a gummy consistency.
  • Mistake: Skipping the step of sautéing vegetables. Fix: Cook celery and onions until soft to develop a deeper, sweeter flavor base.
  • Mistake: Underseasoning the mixture. Fix: Taste and adjust seasoning before baking, as bread absorbs salt and herbs.
  • Mistake: Packing the stuffing too tightly in the pan. Fix: Gently spoon it in for a lighter, fluffier result with a better texture.
  • Mistake: Baking covered the entire time. Fix: Uncover for the last 15-20 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden-brown top.
  • Mistake: Not letting the stuffing rest after baking. Fix: Allow it to set for 10 minutes so it holds together when served.
  • Mistake: Using only one type of herb. Fix: Combine sage with thyme and parsley for a more complex, traditional flavor profile.

Storing Tips

  • Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Place cooled stuffing in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Thaw if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

For best results when reheating your Perfect Homemade Stuffing, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

This Perfect Homemade Stuffing is the ultimate traditional bread stuffing recipe, delivering incredible flavor and texture every time. We hope you love it as much as we do! Give it a try, leave a comment with your review, and subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates.

Print

Perfect Homemade Stuffing

A traditional bread stuffing recipe made with dried bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery in butter, mixed with herbs and chicken broth, then baked to a crispy golden top.

  • Author: Sophie Lane
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x
  • Method: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 cups dried bread cubes (stale bread)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chopped onions
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped celery
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped sage
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed (for dotting on top)

Instructions

  1. Dry bread cubes using stale bread or by baking bread cubes at 200°F for about 20 minutes until dry.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F and generously butter a 9×9 inch baking pan (use larger pan if doubling).
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3/4 cup butter. Add onions and celery and sauté until completely softened, about 20-30 minutes.
  4. Remove skillet from heat and stir in salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, marjoram, fresh sage, and fresh parsley.
  5. Whisk together eggs and chicken broth in a separate bowl.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the onion/herb mixture with the dried bread cubes. Pour in the egg and broth mixture and stir until the bread absorbs the liquid.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the buttered baking pan. Dot the top with cubed butter.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes if desired.

Notes

Use stale bread or dry fresh bread cubes in the oven to ensure the stuffing absorbs the broth properly without becoming mushy. Sautéing the onions and celery slowly brings out their sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Dotting butter on top before baking helps create a golden, crispy crust.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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