Turkey Stuffing From Scratch Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Recipe
Turkey stuffing from scratch is one of those recipes that instantly makes the holiday table feel complete. The smell of butter, onions, and herbs blending together in the oven is enough to bring back the warmest family memories. This stuffing homemade recipe is a holiday tradition that never fails to impress, and it truly is the best homemade stuffing recipe you can share with loved ones. If you want to know how to make stuffing from scratch without stress, this easy homemade stuffing recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Homemade Turkey Stuffing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Place bread cubes in a large bowl. Add the cooked vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk broth and eggs. Pour over the bread mixture. Stir gently until evenly moistened. Add more broth if dry.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Transfer stuffing to baking dish. Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes until golden brown and heated through. Cover if browning too fast.
- Serve hot with your turkey, gravy, or favorite holiday mains.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Stuffing Recipe
Stuffing homemade from scratch has so much more flavor compared to packaged mixes. The best stuffing is full of buttery bread cubes, savory vegetables, and classic herbs like sage and thyme. When baked in the oven, it comes out with a crisp golden top and a soft center, making it one of the best baked stuffing recipes Thanksgiving guests will always request. It is easy to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or even a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients and Substitutions for Savory Stuffing
| Ingredient | Measurement | Substitution Tips |
| Dry bread cubes | 1 (14 oz) package | Use day-old sourdough or French bread cut into cubes |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | Salted butter works, just reduce added salt |
| Yellow onions | 2 large, chopped | White onions or shallots for a lighter taste |
| Celery stalks | 4, chopped | Fennel for a sweeter variation |
| Chicken or turkey broth | 1 cup + more if needed | Vegetable broth for vegetarian stuffing |
| Large eggs | 2, lightly beaten | Flax eggs for vegan option |
| Dried sage | 1 tbsp | Fresh sage about 3 tbsp chopped |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Fresh thyme about 3 tsp chopped |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Salt | To taste | Add as needed after mixing |
How To Make Stuffing From Scratch Step by Step
- Cook vegetables: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until softened.
- Mix the bread base: Place bread cubes in a large bowl. Add the cooked vegetables along with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss lightly.
- Add liquid: In another bowl whisk together broth and eggs. Pour over the bread mixture. Stir gently until evenly moistened. Add more broth a little at a time if the mixture feels dry.
- Prepare to bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake stuffing: Transfer mixture into the baking dish. Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes until golden brown on top and hot in the center. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Serve hot: This savory stuffing is ready to be enjoyed with turkey, gravy, and all your favorite sides.
How To Serve The Best Homemade Stuffing Recipe
This oven baked stuffing is a classic side for turkey dinners but it also works beautifully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even as a standalone comfort dish. For Thanksgiving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or add dried cranberries and toasted pecans for a festive twist. If you are looking for baked stuffing recipes Thanksgiving guests will love, this one never disappoints. It looks rustic served straight from the baking dish, or you can transfer it into a decorative bowl for a polished holiday table.
Tips To Perfect The Best Stuffing
- Use stale bread so it absorbs broth without becoming soggy.
- Add broth slowly to reach a moist but not mushy texture.
- Boost flavor with extras like mushrooms, sausage, or roasted garlic.
- For extra crispy edges, leave it uncovered in the oven for the final 10 minutes.
Common Mistakes To Avoid In Homemade Stuffing
- Forgetting herbs, which are the key to the best stuffing flavor.
- Adding too much liquid, which makes it soggy.
- Using only fresh bread, which does not hold up well.
- Overcrowding the pan, which prevents even baking.
Storage And Reheating For Oven Baked Stuffing
| Storage Method | How to Store | How to Reheat |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container for up to 4 days | Warm in oven at 325°F for 15 to 20 minutes |
| Freezer | Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months | Thaw overnight and reheat covered with foil |
| Microwave | Perfect for single servings | Heat 1 to 2 minutes with a splash of broth |
Conclusion
Turkey stuffing from scratch is more than a side dish. It is the heart of Thanksgiving and the recipe that brings family together year after year. With buttery bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and savory herbs, this easy homemade stuffing recipe is the best stuffing for your holiday table. Save this recipe now so you can always have the best homemade stuffing recipe ready to share with family and friends.
