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Best Homemade Stuffing Recipe

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4 from 10 reviews

This best homemade stuffing recipe is a cherished family favorite, originally passed down from grandmother’s kitchen. Perfectly suited for stuffing a large turkey or baking in a dish on its own, this recipe offers a classic blend of toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a moist and flavorful holiday side dish.

Ingredients

Base

  • 30 slices white bread, lightly toasted

Vegetables & Broth

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Binders & Seasoning

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons water, or as needed (Optional)
  • 2 teaspoons rubbed sage
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Dry the Bread: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the toasted bread slices in a single layer on baking sheets and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, turning once, until completely dry and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Drying the bread ensures it absorbs moisture from the broth without becoming soggy.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven again to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for the stuffing.
  3. Make Bread Crumbs: Crush the dried toast into crumbs using a rolling pin, then transfer crumbs to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and drain any excess liquid to avoid sogginess in the stuffing.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Stir chicken broth and lightly beaten eggs into the bread crumbs until the mixture is moist but not soggy. Add water if necessary to achieve the correct consistency. Fold in the sautéed onion and celery, rubbed sage, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Assemble and Bake: Press the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is brown and crisp, creating a delightful crispy crust.

Notes

  • For a more traditional texture, dry the toasted bread by letting it sit at room temperature for about 24 hours until hard before proceeding.
  • Enhance flavor by adding 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, dried cranberries, or cooked sausage.