Thanksgiving Stuffing From Scratch | Best Homemade Dressing Recipe
Thanksgiving stuffing from scratch has always been the centerpiece of my holiday table. I still remember standing in the kitchen with my grandmother, tearing up day-old bread while the smell of onions, celery, and butter filled the air. The herbs of sage and thyme created a cozy aroma that meant the holiday meal was about to begin. She told me the secret to the best stuffing recipe ever was drying the bread completely and adding broth slowly so each piece held just the right flavor. Since then, making stuffing has become one of my favorite homemade Thanksgiving recipes to share with family.
Thanksgiving Stuffing from Scratch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spread cubed bread on a baking sheet and let dry overnight, or bake at 250°F for 15–20 minutes until crisp.
- Melt butter in a skillet. Sauté onion and celery for 8–10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary.
- Place dried bread cubes in a large bowl. Toss with sautéed vegetables and parsley (if using).
- Pour beaten eggs over the bread. Slowly add warm broth while gently tossing until evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes covered. Remove foil and bake another 20–30 minutes until golden and crisp on top.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving alongside your holiday meal.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love this homemade Thanksgiving recipe
Thanksgiving stuffing from scratch is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. The inside stays soft and moist while the top bakes golden and crisp. This recipe belongs in every list of good stuffing recipes because it uses simple ingredients but tastes like a gourmet dish. It is also one of the most reliable holiday dressing recipes since it works for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even Friendsgiving. If you love browsing stuffing recipes Half Baked Harvest, you will see how versatile stuffing can be. Whether you want a simple family side dish or a festive variation, this recipe will become your go-to.
Ingredients with tips and substitutions
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes and Substitutions |
| Bread | 1 loaf (1.5 lbs), cubed | French bread, sourdough, or plain white bread |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | Adds richness, olive oil works as a lighter option |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped | Sweet onions also work |
| Celery | 3 stalks, chopped | Classic crunch and flavor |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic enhances depth |
| Dried sage | 1 teaspoon | Fresh sage can be used (2–3 teaspoons) |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Fresh thyme is also great |
| Dried rosemary | 1/2 teaspoon, crushed | Strong flavor, use lightly |
| Eggs | 2 large, beaten | Helps bind the stuffing |
| Chicken or turkey broth | 2–3 cups, warmed | Use vegetable broth for vegetarian |
| Parsley | 1/2 cup, optional | Adds freshness |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
For the best homemade Thanksgiving dressing, always make sure the bread cubes are completely dried before mixing.
How to make holiday dressing step by step
- Prepare bread cubes: Spread cubes on a baking sheet and dry overnight or bake at 250°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Melt butter, cook onion and celery for 8 to 10 minutes, then stir in garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary.
- Mix ingredients: Place bread cubes in a large bowl and toss with the sautéed vegetables and parsley.
- Add liquids: Pour beaten eggs over the bread and add broth slowly, tossing until evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Bake stuffing: Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 20 to 30 more minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the stuffing to rest for a few minutes before serving alongside your holiday meal.
This method gives you the best stuffing recipe ever, creating a perfect balance of crispy and soft textures.
How to serve holiday dressing with style
Holiday dressing is best served with roast turkey and gravy, but it also pairs beautifully with ham or pork chops. For a festive twist, add dried cranberries, chopped apples, or sausage to the mixture before baking. If you are inspired by stuffing recipes Half Baked Harvest, try adding chestnuts or mushrooms for a rustic touch. Whether you serve it in a large family dish or in individual ramekins, this holiday easy recipe always impresses guests.
Pro tips to perfect homemade Thanksgiving stuffing
- Dry bread thoroughly before mixing to avoid soggy stuffing.
- Add broth gradually until just moistened.
- Use homemade broth if available for rich flavor.
- Bake uncovered at the end for crispy edges.
- Enhance flavor with sausage, chestnuts, or mushrooms for a gourmet version.
These tips guarantee you the best homemade Thanksgiving dressing every time.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using fresh bread without drying makes stuffing soggy.
- Adding too much broth can make the mixture heavy.
- Skipping herbs removes the classic flavor of holiday dressing recipes.
- Overbaking dries out the stuffing and ruins texture.
Storage and reheating instructions
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tip |
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Defrost overnight and reheat in oven |
| Leftovers | Best next day | Pan fry in butter for crispy edges |
This is one of the holiday easy recipes that tastes even better the day after Thanksgiving.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving stuffing from scratch is the ultimate side dish for any holiday meal. Among all holiday dressing recipes, this one stands out for its simple ingredients and rich flavor. It is one of those homemade Thanksgiving recipes that never fail to impress. Whether you call it stuffing or holiday dressing, this dish will become the best homemade Thanksgiving dressing your family looks forward to every year. Save it, share it, and make it part of your tradition.
