20 Classic Homemade Stuffing Recipes for Thanksgiving

Stuffing is a Thanksgiving staple that brings warmth and flavor to the holiday table. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or one with a unique twist, these 20 classic homemade stuffing recipes will satisfy every palate.

Here is the summary table for the 20 classic homemade stuffing recipes.

Recipe Idea	Visuals	Summary of Idea
1. Traditional Bread Stuffing		A comforting, timeless favorite using cubed bread, onions, celery, and savory herbs like sage and thyme.
2. Cornbread Stuffing		Adds a sweet and crumbly texture, often combined with sausage or pecans for extra flavor.
3. Sausage Stuffing		Elevated with the rich and savory flavors of cooked Italian or breakfast sausage.
4. Herb and Butter Stuffing		A simple yet fragrant dish made with a generous amount of butter, fresh herbs, and rustic bread.
5. Mushroom Stuffing		An earthy, umami-rich stuffing featuring cremini or portobello mushrooms, perfect for vegetarians.
6. Wild Rice Stuffing		A gluten-free alternative using wild rice, mixed with cranberries and nuts for a sweet and nutty balance.
7. Chestnut Stuffing		A gourmet touch with the sweet, nutty flavor and soft texture of roasted chestnuts.
8. Apple and Sage Stuffing		A sweet and aromatic stuffing that pairs tart apples with fresh sage for a classic holiday flavor.
9. Cranberry and Walnut Stuffing		A festive stuffing with the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted walnuts.
10. Bacon and Leek Stuffing		A rich and flavorful stuffing made with crispy bacon and tender, sweet leeks.
11. Garlic and Parmesan Stuffing		A savory and cheesy twist featuring the deep flavor of roasted garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
12. Oyster Stuffing		A unique coastal favorite that incorporates fresh or canned oysters for a briny, seafood-inspired flavor.
13. Sweet Potato Stuffing		A vibrant and hearty stuffing with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato cubes and warm spices.
14. Vegetarian Stuffing		A veggie-packed stuffing using mushrooms, butternut squash, and herbs, with vegetable broth to keep it moist.
15. Gluten-Free Stuffing		A healthy alternative using gluten-free bread or grains with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
16. Savory Bacon and Cornbread Stuffing		A Southern-inspired recipe combining the richness of bacon with the sweetness of cornbread and fresh scallions.
17. Spinach and Feta Stuffing		A Mediterranean-inspired stuffing with wilted spinach and tangy crumbled feta cheese.
18. Ham and Cheese Stuffing		A rich and hearty side dish featuring diced ham and melted cheese like Gruyère or sharp cheddar.
19. Lemon and Herb Stuffing		A bright and zesty stuffing flavored with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and bright herbs like parsley and dill.
20. Rustic Sourdough Stuffing		A stuffing with a tangy, chewy texture from sourdough bread, boosted with the bold flavors of caramelized onions and roasted garlic.

1. Traditional Bread Stuffing

This classic recipe uses cubed bread, onions, celery, and savory herbs like sage and thyme. It is a comforting, timeless favorite.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 pound of cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly toasted and dry.
• In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add 2 chopped onions and 2 chopped celery stalks and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
• In a very large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the cooked onion and celery mixture.
• Add 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped sage, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken or turkey broth.
• Pour the wet mixture over the bread mixture and stir until everything is evenly moistened.
• Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

2. Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread stuffing adds a sweet and crumbly texture to your meal. Combine it with ingredients like sausage or pecans for added flavor.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Crumble about 8 cups of day-old cornbread into a large bowl.
• In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
• Add chopped onions and celery to the skillet and cook in the sausage drippings until softened.
• Add the cooked vegetables, cooked sausage, and 1 cup of toasted pecans to the bowl with the cornbread.
• Season with fresh sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3 cups of chicken broth, then pour over the cornbread mixture and gently toss to combine without making it mushy.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes until the top is golden.

3. Sausage Stuffing

Cooked sausage elevates a basic stuffing with rich and savory flavors. Italian or breakfast sausage both work wonderfully.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and dry out 1 pound of cubed bread in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
• In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of your choice of sausage until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
• Use the rendered sausage fat to sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 chopped celery stalks until tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables.
• Stir in fresh herbs like sage and parsley, along with salt and pepper.
• Moisten the mixture with 2 whisked eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken broth, stirring until just combined.
• Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

4. Herb and Butter Stuffing

A simple yet flavorful stuffing made with fresh herbs, butter, and a mix of rustic bread for a fragrant and moist dish.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dry 1 pound of torn rustic bread on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes.
• In a large skillet, melt a generous 3/4 cup of salted butter over medium heat.
• Add 2 chopped onions and 2 chopped celery stalks and cook until very soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
• In a large bowl, place the dried bread. Pour the butter and vegetable mixture over the top.
• Add a generous amount of fresh herbs: 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped sage, and 1 tablespoon each of fresh thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
• Toss everything to combine thoroughly.
• Moisten with 3-4 cups of warm chicken or vegetable broth and 2 whisked eggs.
• Transfer to a buttered baking dish and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.

5. Mushroom Stuffing

Add earthy mushrooms like cremini or portobello to your stuffing for depth and umami flavor. Perfect for vegetarians and mushroom lovers alike.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast 1 pound of cubed bread until dry.
• In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Add 1.5 pounds of sliced mushrooms (cremini, portobello, or a mix) and cook until browned and their liquid has evaporated.
• Add 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks to the skillet and cook until softened.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the mushroom and vegetable mixture.
• Stir in fresh thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3-4 cups of vegetable broth. Pour over the bread mixture and stir to combine.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes until golden and crisp on top.

6. Wild Rice Stuffing

Substitute bread with wild rice for a gluten-free alternative. Mix in cranberries and nuts for a sweet and nutty balance.

Recipe Method:

• Cook 1.5 cups of wild rice blend according to package directions.
• While the rice cooks, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 chopped celery stalks in butter or olive oil until tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice with the sautéed vegetables.
• Toast 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts and add them to the bowl.
• Stir in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
• Moisten the mixture with about 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth, or until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and the top is slightly crispy.

7. Chestnut Stuffing

Chestnuts add a sweet, nutty flavor and soft texture to stuffing. Combine them with bread and fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dry 1 pound of bread cubes in the oven.
• Coarsely chop about 1.5 cups of pre-cooked, roasted chestnuts.
• In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks until soft.
• In a large bowl, combine the dried bread, chopped chestnuts, and sautéed vegetables.
• Add fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
• For extra richness, you can add cooked sausage or bacon at this stage.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken or turkey broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
• Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.

8. Apple and Sage Stuffing

Diced apples and sage create a sweet and aromatic stuffing that pairs beautifully with turkey. Use tart apples for the best results.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast 1 pound of bread cubes until dry.
• In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks until they begin to soften.
• Add 2 peeled and diced tart apples (like Granny Smith) to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the apples are slightly tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the apple and vegetable mixture.
• Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of fresh, chopped sage, plus salt and pepper to taste.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes more until golden.

9. Cranberry and Walnut Stuffing

Add dried cranberries and chopped walnuts for a festive and slightly tart stuffing that adds color and crunch to your Thanksgiving spread.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Coarsely chop and set aside.
• On the same baking sheet, toast 1 pound of cubed bread until dry.
• In a large skillet, sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks in butter until tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the dried bread, sautéed vegetables, toasted walnuts, and 1 cup of dried cranberries.
• Season with fresh sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Pour over the mixture and toss to combine.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake, covered, for 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes to brown the top.

10. Bacon and Leek Stuffing

Crispy bacon and tender leeks make this stuffing rich and flavorful. It is a crowd-pleaser for bacon lovers.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dry 1 pound of cubed bread in the oven.
• In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, crumble it, and set aside.
• Pour off all but 1/4 cup of the bacon fat from the skillet. Add 3 large, sliced leeks (white and light green parts only) and cook until very tender, about 10 minutes.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, crumbled bacon, and cooked leeks.
• Stir in fresh thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3 cups of chicken broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes until the top is crisp.

11. Garlic and Parmesan Stuffing

Enhance your stuffing with roasted garlic and grated Parmesan cheese. This recipe has a savory and cheesy twist that is irresistible.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes until soft.
• Reduce oven heat to 375°F (190°C) and toast 1 pound of bread cubes until dry.
• Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a small bowl and mash into a paste.
• In a skillet, sauté chopped onions and celery in butter until tender. Stir in the roasted garlic paste.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, vegetable mixture, and 1.5 cups of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Add fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
• Transfer to a baking dish, top with an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan, and bake covered for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

12. Oyster Stuffing

A coastal favorite, oyster stuffing combines fresh or canned oysters with bread, onions, and celery for a unique seafood-inspired dish.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast 1 pound of bread cubes until dry.
• Drain one 8-ounce can of oysters (or use fresh shucked oysters), reserving the liquid (oyster liquor). Coarsely chop the oysters.
• In a large skillet, sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks in butter until soft.
• In a large bowl, combine the dried bread and sautéed vegetables.
• Add fresh parsley, thyme, a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
• In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs. Add the reserved oyster liquor and enough chicken broth to make 3 cups of liquid. Whisk to combine.
• Pour the liquid over the bread mixture and toss. Gently fold in the chopped oysters.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until cooked through and golden on top.

13. Sweet Potato Stuffing

Sweet potato cubes add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to stuffing. Combine them with spices like cinnamon for a warm and hearty dish.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss 2 peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
• Reduce oven heat to 375°F (190°C) and dry 1 pound of bread cubes.
• In a skillet, sauté chopped onions and celery in butter until tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed vegetables.
• Add warm spices like 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, plus fresh sage.
• For extra flavor, add toasted pecans or dried cranberries.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.
• Gently transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes until golden.

14. Vegetarian Stuffing

Skip the meat and opt for a veggie-packed stuffing with mushrooms, squash, and herbs. Vegetable broth keeps it moist and flavorful.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast 2 cups of diced butternut squash until tender. Set aside.
• Reduce oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast 1 pound of cubed rustic bread.
• In a large skillet, sauté 1 pound of sliced mushrooms, 2 chopped onions, and 2 celery stalks in olive oil or butter until all vegetables are soft and browned.
• In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, roasted squash, and sautéed vegetable mixture.
• Stir in a generous amount of fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 4 cups of a flavorful vegetable broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the top is crisp.

15. Gluten-Free Stuffing

Replace traditional bread with gluten-free bread or grains like quinoa. Add your favorite vegetables and herbs for a healthy alternative.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1 pound of cubed gluten-free bread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until thoroughly dried out.
• In a large skillet, sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks in butter or olive oil until tender.
• For extra flavor and nutrition, add other vegetables like mushrooms or diced carrots.
• In a large bowl, combine the dried gluten-free bread with the cooked vegetables.
• Stir in fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley, plus salt and pepper.
• Whisk together 2 large eggs and 3-4 cups of certified gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth.
• Pour the liquid over the bread and gently toss until evenly moistened. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 40-50 minutes, until set and golden on top.

16. Savory Bacon and Cornbread Stuffing

Combine the richness of bacon with the sweetness of cornbread. Add scallions for a Southern-inspired stuffing recipe.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Crumble 8 cups of day-old cornbread into a large bowl.
• In a large skillet, cook 1/2 pound of bacon until crisp. Remove, crumble, and set aside, reserving 2-3 tablespoons of drippings.
• In the same skillet, sauté 1 large chopped onion and 2 chopped celery stalks in the bacon drippings until tender.
• Add the sautéed vegetables, crumbled bacon, and 1/2 cup of sliced scallions to the cornbread.
• Season with fresh sage, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a little kick.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3 cups of chicken broth. Pour over the cornbread mixture and toss gently.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and delicious.

17. Spinach and Feta Stuffing

Mix in wilted spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired stuffing with a tangy twist.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast 1 pound of cubed bread until dry.
• In a large skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of garlic in olive oil until soft.
• Add a 10-ounce package of fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. Coarsely chop the spinach.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, onion mixture, and chopped spinach.
• Stir in 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of fresh dill or parsley, and the zest of one lemon.
• Season with black pepper (be light on salt, as feta is salty).
• Moisten with 2 whisked eggs and 3 cups of vegetable broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and set.

18. Ham and Cheese Stuffing

Cubed ham and melted cheese turn stuffing into a rich and hearty side dish that complements turkey perfectly.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast 1 pound of cubed bread until dry.
• In a skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 celery stalks in butter until tender.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and sautéed vegetables.
• Stir in 2 cups of diced cooked ham and 1.5 cups of shredded cheese, such as Gruyère, Swiss, or sharp cheddar.
• Add fresh parsley and a pinch of black pepper.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3 cups of chicken broth. Pour over the bread mixture and stir to combine.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Top with an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
• Bake, uncovered, for 35-45 minutes, until the stuffing is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

19. Lemon and Herb Stuffing

Brighten up traditional stuffing with the zest and juice of lemon. Fresh parsley and dill add a fresh and zesty flavor profile.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dry out 1 pound of bread cubes in the oven.
• In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter and sauté 2 chopped onions and 2 celery stalks until soft.
• In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and cooked vegetables.
• Add a generous amount of fresh, bright herbs: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley and 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill.
• Add the zest of 2 lemons and the juice of 1 lemon to the bowl.
• Season with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Toss to combine.
• Moisten the mixture with 2 whisked eggs and 3-4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden.

20. Rustic Sourdough Stuffing

Sourdough bread gives stuffing a tangy and chewy texture. Add caramelized onions and roasted garlic for a bold flavor boost.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Tear 1 large loaf of sourdough bread into rustic, bite-sized pieces and toast until dry.
• In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Add 2 large, thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for 25-30 minutes until deeply caramelized.
• While the onions cook, roast a head of garlic until soft.
• In a large bowl, combine the toasted sourdough pieces with the caramelized onions. Squeeze in the roasted garlic cloves and mash them gently.
• Add 2 chopped celery stalks (sautéed, if preferred) and fresh herbs like thyme and sage.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Whisk together 2 eggs and 3-4 cups of chicken or beef broth for a deeper flavor. Pour over the bread and toss.
• Transfer to a greased baking dish.
• Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is deeply golden and crusty.

Conclusion

These 20 stuffing recipes offer a wide variety of flavors and ingredients, from the classic to the creative. Whether you are hosting a traditional Thanksgiving or looking to try something new, these recipes will ensure your stuffing is a highlight of the holiday feast. Explore, experiment, and enjoy a truly memorable meal.