Bread stuffing is a beloved side dish that brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to any meal, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its delicious mix of toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, herbs, and savory broth creates a dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or even stands alone as a vegetarian option. What makes this recipe truly special is its flexibility home cooks can adapt it using regional flavors, family traditions, or whatever ingredients are on hand. Whether you prefer your stuffing moist and baked in a casserole or crisped on the outside and soft in the middle, this classic recipe for bread stuffing offers a satisfying and crowd-pleasing result every time.
What Is Bread Stuffing?
Bread stuffing, also known simply as stuffing or dressing depending on the region, is a seasoned bread-based dish often served as a side. Traditionally, it was cooked inside the cavity of poultry, but nowadays it is more commonly baked separately for food safety and ease. The key ingredients include cubed bread, aromatic vegetables like onion and celery, butter, fresh herbs, and broth. Some versions also incorporate sausage, nuts, dried fruits, or mushrooms to elevate the flavor.
Best Bread to Use for Stuffing
Choosing the right bread is essential for a delicious stuffing texture. Bread should be slightly stale or dried out so it can absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. Here are some great options:
- White sandwich bread– mild and traditional
- Sourdough– adds a tangy depth of flavor
- French or Italian bread– sturdy with a crusty edge
- Challah or brioche– richer and slightly sweet
Whichever type you choose, cut it into 1/2 to 1-inch cubes and dry it out overnight or toast it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes until firm but not browned.
Classic Recipe for Bread Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1 loaf (about 10 cups) of day-old bread, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs (optional, for binding)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter or oil.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and celery and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add the garlic, sage, and thyme in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Pour the cooked vegetables and butter over the bread cubes and stir to combine.
- Add salt, pepper, and enough broth to moisten the bread about 2 1/2 cups to start. The mixture should be moist but not soggy.
- If using eggs, beat them in a separate bowl and stir into the mixture. Eggs help the stuffing hold its shape when serving, especially if baked in a dish.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Stuffing Variations
One of the best things about bread stuffing is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re looking to make it vegetarian, heartier, or add festive flair, the following ideas can help tailor your recipe to suit any occasion:
Popular Additions
- Sausage– adds richness and meaty flavor; cook and crumble before mixing in
- Apples– a sweet, fresh contrast to savory herbs
- Chestnuts or walnuts– give a crunchy texture and nutty aroma
- Cranberries or raisins– for a touch of sweetness and color
- Mushrooms– earthy and flavorful, especially with thyme or rosemary
Diet-Friendly Versions
- Vegetarian– use vegetable broth and avoid meat-based ingredients
- Vegan– use plant-based butter and a flaxseed egg or omit the egg entirely
- Gluten-free– use gluten-free bread and confirm broth is gluten-free
Tips for Perfect Stuffing
Making great stuffing isn’t difficult, but a few thoughtful touches can improve texture and flavor dramatically.
- Dry the bread properly– moist bread will turn mushy when combined with broth
- Balance the moisture– add broth gradually and mix to find the right consistency
- Use fresh herbswhen possible for vibrant flavor
- Don’t overbake– too much time in the oven can dry out the stuffing
- Taste before baking– especially for seasoning; you can adjust salt or herbs
Serving Suggestions
Bread stuffing is incredibly versatile and works well with a wide range of main dishes. Traditionally paired with roast turkey, it also complements chicken, pork, duck, or vegetarian entrees. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Alongside roasted turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce
- With roast chicken and root vegetables for a cozy weeknight dinner
- As a side for pork chops or glazed ham during the holidays
- Stuffed into roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian twist
Stuffing also makes excellent leftovers. Reheat in the oven with a splash of broth to keep it moist, or use it to make a stuffing sandwich layered with leftover meat and gravy.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Stuffing is an ideal make-ahead dish. You can prepare it fully and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to cook, let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze unbaked stuffing, prepare the mixture and freeze in a greased, freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- To freeze baked stuffing, cool it completely, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.
A well-made bread stuffing brings flavor, heartiness, and tradition to the table. This recipe for bread stuffing is easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and delicious enough to become a favorite part of any meal. Whether served at a holiday feast or alongside a casual roast dinner, it adds a rich, savory depth that makes every bite more satisfying. With just a few staple ingredients and some personal touches, you can create a homemade stuffing that everyone will remember and request again year after year.