This herb stuffing is a cozy mix of bread, seasonings, and fresh herbs that makes every bite feel like a warm hug! It’s perfect for pairing with turkey or enjoying on its own!
I always love how the wonderful smells fill the kitchen while it’s baking. Trust me, you might find yourself sneaking spoonfuls before it even hits the table! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Cubes: Day-old rustic bread is best because it absorbs flavors without getting mushy. You can use French or sourdough. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free bread or cornbread as an alternative.
Butter: I always reach for unsalted butter, which lets the seasoning shine. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter.
Onions and Celery: These two provide a great base and flavor. If you’re not a fan, leeks can be a delicious substitute for onions. For celery, fennel can add a unique twist.
Herbs: Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor! If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones work too – just use about a third of the amount. For example, substitute 1 teaspoon dried sage for 1 tablespoon fresh sage.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is perfect for better control over seasoning, but vegetable broth is a great option for vegetarians. Don’t forget to reduce the salt if you’re using a salty broth!
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing is Moist But Not Soggy?
A key aspect to great stuffing is the right moisture level. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with toasted bread cubes. This dries them out, so they soak in the broth without becoming mushy. Aim for a light golden color.
- Add broth slowly. Pour it in gradually while gently stirring. You want the bread to be moist but still hold its shape. If you see it pooling at the bottom, you’ve added too much!
- Beat in the eggs. They help bind everything together and lock in moisture.
- After baking, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the stuffing set up nicely.
With these tips, your stuffing will be comforting and flavorful, with just the right amount of moisture. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Savory Herb Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 10 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old, rustic bread like French or sourdough)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped (about 2 medium onions)
- 1 1/2 cups celery, finely chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes for preparation and about 1 hour to bake. You’ll need a little extra time to let the stuffing set after baking, making it a total of about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for planning your holiday meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread:
Start by preheating your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread your bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 20-30 minutes, until they are dried out and light golden. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and celery; sauté them until they are soft and translucent, which will take about 8-10 minutes. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until you can smell the wonderful aroma.
3. Combine Herbs and Seasonings:
Remove the skillet with the cooked vegetables from the heat. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything together until well combined.
4. Mix the Stuffing Base:
Take a large mixing bowl and add your toasted bread cubes. Pour the cooked vegetable and herb mixture over the cubes, tossing everything gently to mix well without breaking up the bread too much.
5. Add Egg and Broth:
Next, pour the beaten eggs over the bread mixture and gently mix it in. Slowly add the chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring carefully until the bread is moistened but not soggy. You might not need all the broth, so add it gradually to get the right consistency.
6. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish (around 9×13 inches should do). Cover it tightly with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. If you like, you can garnish the top with more fresh herbs for an extra touch. Enjoy your delicious savory herb stuffing!
This savory herb stuffing is the perfect accompaniment to your meals, combining comforting bread, rich flavors, and a delightful mix of fresh herbs.
Can I Use Stale Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Stale or day-old bread is ideal for stuffing, as it absorbs flavors well without getting mushy. If your bread is fresh, simply toast it in the oven to dry it out before using.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount called for; for instance, use 1 teaspoon of dried sage instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh.
Can I Prepare This Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead! Just complete everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out, and warm it in the oven or microwave.