The holiday season is wonderful, isn’t it? So much joy, so much togetherness… and, let’s be real, so much kitchen stress! If the thought of pulling off that perfect holiday feast makes you break out in a nervous sweat, I totally get it. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share this Simple Holiday Stuffing with you. It’s got that amazing crispy, savory, and totally foolproof magic you’re looking for in a side dish that everyone will love. My own journey with stuffing started years ago on a cold December afternoon. I wanted to make something truly special, something from scratch, without all the fuss. Toasting the bread until it was just right, sautéing onions and celery in a river of butter, finding that perfect balance of broth—it felt like a real culinary win when it came out golden and fragrant. That’s the heart of THIS recipe too: care, great flavor, and simplicity. As an experienced recipe developer, my goal is always to empower you in the kitchen, and this stuffing is proof that you don’t need complicated steps for incredible results. Trust me, this is the dependable, crowd-pleasing side dish your holiday table needs. Visit Sauvro to discover even more ways to make your kitchen shine!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Holiday Stuffing Recipe
Honestly, what’s not to love here? This isn’t just another stuffing recipe; it’s your secret weapon for a stress-free holiday! Here’s why it’s going to be your new go-to:
- It’s a truly easy stuffing recipe: Forget complicated steps and endless ingredients. This recipe trims the fat, focusing on what really matters for amazing flavor.
- Crispy, golden perfection every time: We bake it in muffin tins and give it a little spritz, so you get those irresistible crispy edges and a tender, savory center.
- Foolproof savory goodness: The combination of fresh aromatics, herbs, and just the right amount of broth makes this stuffing incredibly flavorful and moist, but never soggy.
- Perfect for any holiday table: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this stuffing feels festive and special without adding to your hosting pressure.
Gather Your Ingredients for Simple Holiday Stuffing
Okay, let’s get down to business! To make this amazing, crispy, savory stuffing, you won’t need to trek to a specialty store. Everything here is pretty standard, and that’s part of why it’s so foolproof. Having everything prepped makes assembly a breeze, trust me!
For the Bread:
- 16 ounces sourdough bread, sliced or torn into ½-inch cubes
For the Aromatics:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 stalks celery, finely diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup hardy fresh herbs (like rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano), finely chopped
For the Stuffing Mixture:
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1 – 1 ½ cups chicken or turkey broth/stock
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season
- Nonstick cooking spray
Essential Equipment for Your Foolproof Stuffing
You know, the beauty of this recipe is that you probably already have most of what you need in your kitchen! Having the right tools really makes a difference in getting that perfect crispy, savory stuffing, and it keeps things from getting complicated. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
- A good baking sheet: This is where your bread cubes will chill out and get nice and dry. An even layer is key!
- A large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for sautéing all those lovely aromatics and then mixing everything together without a huge mess.
- A muffin tin: This is our secret weapon for those amazing crispy edges! Using a nonstick one will make your life even easier.
- A spring-loaded cookie scoop (optional but helpful!): This makes filling the muffin cups super uniform and quick. You can totally just use a spoon, though!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Simple Holiday Stuffing
Alright, let’s dive into making this stuffing for real! This is where all the magic happens. Don’t worry, I’ve broken it down so it’s super easy to follow. It’s all about getting those perfect crispy edges and that savory, comforting middle. And hey, if you need a little extra inspiration for your kitchen journey, check out Sauvro!
Preparing the Bread for Crispy Stuffing
This first step is totally crucial for getting that amazing crispy texture we’re after. We need our bread cubes nice and dry! Between 1 to 2 days before you plan to bake, just slice your sourdough into about half-inch cubes and spread them all out on a baking sheet. Let them sit out, uncovered. The air will do the work, drying them out perfectly so they soak up all that yummy flavor without turning into mush. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have a couple of days, no worries! You can totally toast the cubes in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, just until they feel dried out. Store-bought croutons are even an option, but homemade always has that extra special touch!
Building Savory Flavor with Aromatics
Now, let’s build that incredible savory base. Grab a big pot or a Dutch oven and melt your butter over medium heat. Toss in your finely diced onions and celery. A little sprinkle of salt and pepper right here helps them soften up beautifully. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and smell amazing – you know, that sweet, fragrant onion-y smell? Then, add your chopped garlic and all those lovely fresh herbs. Stir for another minute or two until fragrant. Oh, the aromas! Once that scent fills your kitchen, take the pot off the heat. This is where all the deep, delicious flavor starts!
Combining Ingredients for the Perfect Stuffing Mixture
This is where it all comes together! Back to that pot with your softened veggies. Add in your dried bread cubes, that grated parmesan cheese, and the eggs. Give it all a good stir to combine everything. Now, for the broth: start with about ½ cup of chicken or turkey broth. Mix it in gently, then add more broth, about a half cup at a time, stirring between each addition. The key thing here is to use *just enough* broth to soften the bread cubes. You want them rehydrated and tender, but definitely not soggy! We’re aiming for that perfect balance – not dry, not wet, just right.
Assembling and Baking Your Stuffing Muffins
Time to get these into their cute little muffin-tin homes! Generously spray your nonstick muffin tin with cooking spray. This step is super important to make sure they release easily later. Then, gently pack the stuffing mixture into each cup. Don’t mash it down too hard – we still want a little air in there! Once they’re all filled, give each muffin top a little spritz of cooking spray. This is another trick for getting those gorgeous crispy edges! Pop the tin into your preheated 350°F oven on the upper rack. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden and oh-so-crispy.
Tips for Success with Your Simple Holiday Stuffing
You’ve got this! Making this stuffing crispy and savory is totally doable. Here are a few little tricks I’ve picked up that really make a difference. First off, the bread! Sourdough is awesome because its tanginess adds depth, but any sturdy bread works. The key is making sure it’s good and dry – soggy bread is the enemy of crispy stuffing, trust me on this. When you’re mixing in the broth, go slow! It’s a balancing act. You want it moist enough that it holds together and the flavors meld, but not so wet that it becomes a soggy mess. That little spritz of cooking spray on top before baking? Don’t skip it! It’s your best friend for achieving those irresistible golden-brown, crispy edges that everyone fights over.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Stuffing
Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Sometimes things might look a little different in your pantry, and that’s totally fine! The sourdough bread we use here? It’s got this wonderful tang that adds a really complex flavor, and its crust holds up beautifully, making for that perfect crisp-chewy texture. But hey, if sourdough isn’t your jam or you can’t find it, no stress! Day-old French bread, challah, or even a good sturdy country loaf will work like a charm – just make sure whatever bread you pick is a day or two old so it dries out properly. Need a veggie option? Just swap the chicken or turkey broth for a good quality vegetable broth. And for the herbs? While rosemary, sage, and thyme are classic holiday pairings, feel free to use what you love or have on hand – a mix of your favorites is always a winner!
Serving Suggestions for Your Holiday Feast
Now that you’ve got this incredible, crispy stuffing made, let’s talk about what to serve it with! It’s the perfect partner for all those holiday mains. Imagine it alongside a juicy roasted turkey or a succulent glazed ham – pure bliss! It also plays beautifully with a hearty pot roast or even a simple roasted chicken. And for those vegetarian friends, it’s a fantastic savory side that holds its own. For dessert? Maybe something light like a fruit crisp, or go all out with a pumpkin pie! Don’t forget to check out Sauvro for more ideas to make your whole meal sing!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any extra stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, we want to bring back that amazing crispiness. The best way? Spread it out on a baking sheet and pop it into a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and delightfully crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you can – it tends to make things a little sad and soggy, and we don’t want that after all our hard work!
Frequently Asked Questions about Simple Holiday Stuffing
Got questions about this easy stuffing recipe? I’ve got answers! Making a truly great stuffing, especially one that’s crispy and savory, seems daunting, but it’s honestly so straightforward once you know a few tricks. Let’s clear up any little worries you might have!
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! A big part of why this is such a foolproof recipe is that you can totally prep ahead. You can dry out your bread cubes a day or two in advance, and even mix the entire stuffing mixture (bread, aromatics, eggs, cheese – everything except the broth) the day before. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, stir in the broth and proceed with the recipe. It makes holiday day so much less stressful!
What kind of bread is best for homemade stuffing?
We love sourdough for its awesome tangy flavor and sturdy texture, which holds up so well and gets perfectly crisp. But honestly, any good, dense bread will work! Think crusty French loaves, challah, or even a hearty country white. The most important thing is that the bread is a day or two old and dried out properly. This means it will soak up all the delicious savory flavors without turning into a mushy mess. Fresh bread just won’t give you that lovely crispness we’re aiming for!
How do I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Going vegetarian is super simple with this recipe! Just swap out the chicken or turkey broth for a good quality vegetable broth. Make sure your vegetable broth has a nice, rich flavor – that’s where you’ll get a lot of your savory depth. Everything else stays exactly the same! It’s still going to be incredibly crispy and delicious for your holiday dinner.
How can I make sure my stuffing is extra crispy?
Ah, the crispy bits! That’s often the best part, right? For this recipe, we get tons of crispiness by baking it in muffin tins and giving the tops a light spritz of nonstick cooking spray before baking. This exposes more surface area to the heat. Another tip? Make sure your bread cubes are really well-dried out – that’s step one! And when you’re mixing in the broth, use just enough to moisten, not soak. When reheating leftovers, spreading it on a baking sheet and popping it back in the oven is the secret to restoring that perfect crunch.
Want more tips to make your kitchen a flavor haven? Visit Sauvro!
Estimated Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers! While every kitchen is a little different, and brands can vary, here’s an approximate idea of the nutritional info for one of these delicious stuffing muffins. Think of these as a rough guide:
- Calories: Around 250-300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: 5-7g
- Cholesterol: 70-90mg
- Sodium: 400-600mg (this can vary a LOT depending on your broth! Use low-sodium if you’re watching this.)
- Total Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Total Sugars: 5-7g
- Protein: 10-15g
Remember, these are just estimates! The exact amounts will depend on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For instance, the fat content can change quite a bit based on the type of bread and how much butter makes it into your particular batch!
Share Your Simple Holiday Stuffing Experience!
Alright, you’ve made it! You’ve whipped up this amazing, crispy, savory stuffing, and now it’s time to shine! I’d absolutely LOVE to hear how it turned out for you. Did you try any fun variations? Were there any little moments that made you smile? Drop a comment below, share your photos, and tell me all about it! And please, if you loved it, consider giving it a rating – it really helps other home cooks find their new favorite holiday side. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, you can always reach out via Sauvro’s contact page!
Simple Holiday Stuffing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 1-2 days ahead of time, prepare the bread cubes: Slice the bread into ½-inch cubes. Transfer the bread to a baking sheet, spreading it in an even layer. Set aside, uncovered, for 1-2 days or until the bread is dried out.
- Prep: When you’re ready to prep and bake your stuffing muffins, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, ensuring an oven rack is positioned in the upper third of the oven.
- Soften the aromatics: To a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the butter. Once melted, add the onions and celery, seasoning with 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt and ground black pepper as desired. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and fresh herbs. Cook 1-2 minutes longer, until fragrant. Remove from the heat.
- Finish the stuffing: To the pot with the aromatics, add the dried bread cubes, parmesan, and eggs. Stir to combine well. Working ½ cup at a time, stir the chicken/turkey broth into the stuffing mixture. Mix well between additions and use just enough broth to rehydrate the bread cubes such that they’re softened but not soggy.
- Assemble the stuffing muffins: Generously grease a nonstick muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared tin, gently packing the stuffing in each cup.
- Bake the stuffing muffins: Spritz each stuffing muffin with nonstick cooking spray, then transfer the muffin tin to the oven. Bake 30-35 minutes, until the tops of the stuffins are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Serve: If needed, run a knife around each stuffing muffin to release from the pan. Transfer to a serving tray and serve warm.
Notes
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Maya Stevens is an accomplished culinary writer dedicated to empowering everyday cooks with skills, confidence, and flavor-forward inspiration. With years of experience developing approachable, well-tested recipes, Maya has become known for her warm teaching voice and her ability to transform simple ingredients into memorable, soul-satisfying meals. Today, she proudly contributes to sauvro.com, where she creates trusted recipes designed for real kitchens, real schedules, and real life.
Maya’s culinary journey began in boutique cafés and small farm-to-table kitchens, where she first discovered her love for seasonal cooking, experimentation, and scratch-made food. After working her way up through kitchen roles and earning a reputation for her thoughtful approach to flavor, she shifted her focus toward culinary media and recipe writing. This transition allowed her to reach home cooks on a larger scale—teaching, inspiring, and sharing the techniques she once used behind the line.
Throughout her career, Maya has collaborated with food startups, local chefs, and kitchenware brands to develop recipes, educational resources, and digital cooking guides. Her work has been featured in online food communities and recipe roundups, celebrated for its clarity, creativity, and reliability. Whether she’s crafting a weeknight meal, a comforting classic, or a fresh twist on a familiar dish, Maya is committed to developing recipes that work the first time and make home cooks feel proud of what they create.
