Go Back
An extreme close-up overhead shot of homemade stuffing, showing the texture of the bread, celery, and herbs. This highlights the moist stuffing recipe.

Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe: The Ultimate Classic Guide

This classic Thanksgiving stuffing recipe is foolproof and packed with flavor. Made with savory herbs, buttery bread, and simple ingredients, it's the perfect easy and moist side dish for your holiday table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf sturdy white bread (about 16 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes and dried Day-old bread is ideal
  • 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
  • 2 large yellow onions, chopped
  • 4 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 0.5 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Use more if needed for desired moistness
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp salt Or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. If your bread is not already stale, spread the cubes on baking sheets and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes until dry and lightly toasted. Let cool completely.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the garlic, sage, and thyme, cooking for one more minute until fragrant.
  3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a large bowl. Add the dried bread cubes and fresh parsley, tossing to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Pour over the bread mixture and fold gently until everything is evenly moistened.
  4. Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crispier top: Dot the surface with a few small pieces of butter before baking.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the stuffing up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.