This tasty savory herb stuffing is packed with fresh flavors. You’ll love the mix of herbs, bread, and a dash of broth, making it a perfect side dish for your meal!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist stealing a bite while it’s cooling. I always end up eating more than I planned! It pairs wonderfully with turkey or roasted veggies.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread Cubes: Day-old white or sourdough bread is perfect. If you don’t have any on hand, you can use whole wheat or multigrain bread for a nuttier flavor. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for the best texture!
Celery: Adds a nice crunch and flavor. If celery isn’t your favorite, try using diced carrots or even bell peppers for a different feel!
Onion: White or yellow onions work best here for their sweetness when cooked. If you need a sweeter option, you could use shallots as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: While this recipe uses dried sage, thyme, and rosemary, feel free to swap them out for your favorite herbs. Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs like basil and dill can add a unique twist.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth can both be delicious. For a vegetarian option, veggie broth is the way to go. If you’re out, water works as a last resort, but you won’t get the same depth of flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Stuffing Isn’t Too Dry or Soggy?
Getting the right moisture level in stuffing can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:
- Use day-old bread cubes to prevent sogginess. Fresh bread absorbs too much moisture.
- Toast the bread before mixing it in. This adds a lovely crispy texture.
- When adding broth, start with 2 1/2 cups and mix gently. You want it moist but not soggy. If it feels too dry, add a bit more broth.
- Let the stuffing rest after baking. This will help it firm up a bit and makes it easier to serve.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfect stuffing every time!
Savory Herb Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 cups bread cubes (day-old, preferably white or sourdough bread)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
How Much Time Will You Need?
This savory herb stuffing will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 to 50 minutes of baking time. It’s a breeze to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the stuffing won’t stick.
2. Toasting the Bread:
Spread your bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and pop it into the oven for about 15 minutes. You want them to dry out and turn slightly golden. Once done, take them out and let them cool down.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies for about 8 minutes, or until they become nice and soft.
4. Mixing in the Herbs:
Time to add flavor! Stir in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let them cook together for about a minute until everything smells amazing.
5. Combining Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, toss together the toasted bread cubes, cooked veggies, and chopped parsley. Get everything well mixed together.
6. Adding the Moisture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture into the bread mixture, tossing gently until all the bread is moistened. If you want a drier stuffing, stick with 2 1/2 cups of broth; if you prefer it a bit more moist, go for 3 cups.
7. Baking the Stuffing:
Now, transfer your stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover it with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
8. Serving:
Once out of the oven, let your delicious stuffing sit for about 5 minutes. This helps it firm up a little. Feel free to garnish with some extra fresh herbs before serving.
Enjoy your savory herb stuffing as a delightful and hearty side dish!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works just as well in this savory herb stuffing. Just make sure to choose a gluten-free bread that you enjoy, and prepare it in the same way as regular bread cubes for the best results.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Cook This Stuffing Inside the Turkey?
You can cook stuffing inside the turkey to give it extra flavor. However, make sure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. For this recipe, you might want to reduce the broth slightly to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
What Should I Serve with Savory Herb Stuffing?
This stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or pork. It also goes well alongside green bean casseroles or cranberry sauce for a classic festive meal.