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Savory Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe: Easy Homemade Turkey Side

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This savory Thanksgiving stuffing is a nostalgic, comforting side dish packed with aromatic herbs, sautéed veggies, and golden bread cubes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 cups (about 1 lb) day-old French bread, sourdough, or rustic country loaf, cubed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 medium yellow onions, diced
  • 3 large celery stalks, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tbsp dried)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried poultry seasoning
  • 2 to 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • Optional: 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • Optional: 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: 1 cup mushrooms, diced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway, until dry and lightly golden. Let cool.
  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in sage, thyme, parsley, and poultry seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Transfer toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed veggie and herb mixture over the top. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Whisk eggs with apple cider (if using) and pour over the bread mixture. Gradually add broth, starting with 2 cups. Toss gently until bread is moist but not soggy. Add more broth as needed.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Fold in optional add-ins like cranberries, nuts, or mushrooms.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crunch if desired.
  9. Let stuffing cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use stale or toasted bread for best texture. Add broth gradually to avoid soggy stuffing. For gluten-free, use GF bread and dairy-free butter. Prep veggies and toast bread cubes ahead for less holiday chaos. Taste before baking to adjust seasoning. Stuffing can be made ahead and baked fresh for best results.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thanksgiving stuffing, turkey side dish, homemade stuffing, holiday recipe, easy stuffing, savory stuffing, bread stuffing, classic stuffing, vegetarian stuffing, gluten-free stuffing

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/savory-thanksgiving-stuffing-recipe-easy-homemade-turkey-side/