How to Make the Perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing

Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without a dish of warm, savory stuffing. Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, this classic side is a must on holiday tables. It's flavorful, comforting, and soaks up all the delicious juices from turkey and gravy. But what separates average stuffing from the perfect one? It’s all about the right bread, fresh herbs, and a good balance of moisture and texture.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Thanksgiving stuffing—crispy on top, soft in the center, and packed with flavor.

Why Stuffing Deserves Star Status

Stuffing is more than a side dish—it’s a flavor powerhouse. It brings together everything you love about Thanksgiving: buttery bread, savory herbs, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of nostalgia. Done right, stuffing complements every other dish on the table.
This recipe sticks to the classic foundation but leaves room for customization, whether you like sausage, apples, or nuts in the mix.
Ingredients for Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old French bread or sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter

1 medium onion, diced

3 celery stalks, diced

2–3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons poultry seasoning or a mix of sage, thyme, and rosemary

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Freshly ground black pepper

2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken or turkey broth

2 large eggs

Optional: chopped fresh parsley, cooked sausage, diced apples, or toasted pecans

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Stuffing

1. Prep the bread
   Cut the bread into cubes and let it sit out overnight to dry, or bake at 300°F for 15–20 minutes until slightly crisp. Dry bread absorbs the broth better and holds its texture.

2. Cook the aromatics
   In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until soft (about 8–10 minutes). Stir in garlic and herbs. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Combine with bread
   Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the butter-vegetable mixture over the bread and toss to coat evenly.

4. Add broth and eggs
   Whisk the eggs with 2 1/2 cups of broth. Pour over the bread mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly moistened but not soggy. Add more broth if needed—the stuffing should hold together but not pool with liquid.

5. Bake to perfection
   Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Tip: Want extra crispy edges? Spread stuffing into a larger pan to increase surface area.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Stuffing is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it the day before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature first. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat nicely in the oven.
Customization Ideas

The beauty of stuffing is how easily it adapts:
Savory: Add cooked Italian sausage or pancetta

Sweet and tart: Mix in dried cranberries or diced apples

Nutty: Add toasted walnuts or pecans

Herby: Toss in fresh parsley, sage, or thyme just before baking

Thanksgiving stuffing should never be an afterthought. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a version that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured. Whether you're a traditionalist or like to experiment, this recipe gives you a solid base to work from.

Conclusion
Now you know how to make the perfect Thanksgiving stuffing—crispy, savory, and full of holiday flavor. It's the side dish everyone looks forward to, and with this foolproof method, yours will be the one they ask for again and again.