14 Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipes to Wow Your Guests

Stuffing is one of those Thanksgiving dishes that people get seriously passionate about—and honestly, it’s easy to see why. It’s savory, herby, and full of cozy flavor that soaks up gravy like a champ.

Whether you’re loyal to the classic celery-and-onion combo or you’re ready to shake things up with sausage, apples, or even cornbread, there’s no shortage of ways to make stuffing your own. Some people like it baked until crispy on top, others prefer it soft and rich from the slow cooker.

Either way, it’s a non-negotiable part of the holiday table. So if you’re looking to try something new or just need a foolproof recipe that still feels nostalgic, these stuffing ideas have you covered.

Classic Herb Bread Stuffing

Classic herb bread stuffing is a delightful side dish that brings warmth and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. With its mix of buttery bread cubes and fragrant herbs, this stuffing is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of sage, thyme, and rosemary creates a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a beloved favorite for many.

This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for personal tweaks. Whether you prefer a bit of sausage for added richness or some vegetables for crunch, you can customize it to your own taste. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with turkey!

Ingredients

• 10 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, sautéing until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the broth and mix gently until the bread is evenly moistened. Add the beaten eggs and mix until just combined.
5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Serve warm.

Sausage And Apple Stuffing

Sausage and Apple Stuffing is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, combining the savory flavors of sausage with the sweet crunch of apples. This recipe is simple enough for even novice cooks and will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

The combination of herbs, spices, and textures creates a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with turkey or chicken. Plus, it adds a burst of color to your Thanksgiving table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound sausage (sweet or spicy, according to preference)
• 4 cups bread cubes (preferably stale)
• 2 cups diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
4. Stir in diced apples, parsley, sage, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the sausage mixture with bread cubes. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, mixing until the bread is just moistened.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, homemade stuffing!

Cornbread Sage Stuffing

Cornbread sage stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic holiday side dish. It brings a hint of sweetness from the cornbread and a savory depth from fresh sage. This stuffing is not only tasty but also easy to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

The combination of crunchy cornbread cubes, aromatic herbs, and a few simple ingredients creates a warm and inviting dish. Whether you serve it alongside turkey or enjoy it on its own, this stuffing is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 batch of cornbread (about 4 cups, cubed)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cornbread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, until slightly golden.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the walnuts, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the toasted cornbread cubes with the sautéed mixture. Pour in the broth gradually, mixing until everything is well combined and moistened.
5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Wild Rice And Mushroom Stuffing

Wild rice and mushroom stuffing is a delightful dish that brings a unique twist to traditional Thanksgiving fare. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms pair perfectly with the nutty taste of wild rice, creating a stuffing that’s both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is quite simple to make, making it a great choice for those who want to impress without the fuss.

The combination of fresh herbs and vegetables adds a burst of freshness, while the richness of the broth infuses every bite with flavor. Your guests will love this tasty option, and it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal ingredients into your holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Wild Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 45-50 minutes, or until rice is tender. Drain any excess liquid.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in mushrooms, celery, and carrots, sautéing until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add cooked wild rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in thyme, sage, salt, pepper, parsley, and walnuts if using. Mix well to combine all flavors.
4. Final Touch: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.

Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Cranberry Pecan Stuffing is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing that combines the tartness of cranberries with the rich nuttiness of pecans. This stuffing offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving turkey. It’s simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on other dishes while still impressing your guests.

The texture is wonderfully varied, with crunchy pecans and soft bread cubes bringing together a cozy feel. This recipe is straightforward, making it easy even for those new to cooking. You’ll find it not only tastes amazing but also brings a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients

• 8 cups bread cubes (day-old is best)
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are lightly golden.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, around 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped pecans, cranberries, parsley, thyme, and sage to the skillet. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the veggie mixture. Slowly pour the broth over the mixture, stirring gently until all the bread is moistened.
5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Bacon And Leek Stuffing

Bacon and leek stuffing is a fantastic twist on a classic favorite. The savory flavor of crispy bacon pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of leeks, creating a rich and satisfying dish that enhances any holiday meal. This stuffing is simple to prepare, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

With its delightful combination of textures and flavors, this stuffing will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s comforting and familiar, yet offers a delicious new take that will impress your guests. Plus, it comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy the holiday without being stuck in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of rustic bread, cubed
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
3. Add the sliced leeks and diced celery to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed leeks and celery, cooked bacon, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the bread is moistened.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Vegan Sourdough Stuffing

This Vegan Sourdough Stuffing is a warm and hearty dish perfect for Thanksgiving. With the tangy flavor of sourdough bread, combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, it offers a delightful taste that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it an accessible addition to your holiday spread.

The stuffing is packed with flavor from onions, celery, and herbs, creating a comforting dish that complements any meal. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread while making a dish that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

• 6 cups sourdough bread, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and celery until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, vegetable broth, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

Italian Sausage And Fennel Stuffing

This Italian Sausage and Fennel Stuffing is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving feast. It brings a burst of flavor with the savory sausage and the aromatic fennel, creating a warm and inviting dish that pairs beautifully with turkey or any main course. Plus, it’s easy to make, which means you can focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones.

The combination of toasted bread, fragrant herbs, and juicy sausage gives this stuffing a comforting texture and a delicious taste that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or a cozy dinner, this stuffing is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Italian bread, cubed
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup chopped fennel bulb
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Add fennel, onion, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are soft.
3. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, sausage mixture, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your delicious Italian sausage and fennel stuffing!

Chestnut And Celery Stuffing

This Chestnut and Celery Stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic Thanksgiving dish. The combination of earthy chestnuts and crunchy celery brings a unique texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey. It’s simple to prepare and will surely impress your guests.

The savory herbs and slight sweetness from the chestnuts create a comforting aroma, making your kitchen feel like a warm autumn haven. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying the holiday rather than stressing about the meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
• 2 cups diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cups bread cubes (preferably stale)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the chopped chestnuts, thyme, and sage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with the bread cubes. Pour in the broth gradually, mixing until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Butternut Squash And Kale Stuffing

This butternut squash and kale stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite. It’s packed with flavor, combining the sweetness of roasted squash with the earthiness of kale and the comforting texture of bread cubes. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also adds a vibrant pop of color to your Thanksgiving table.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious stuffing that complements your turkey perfectly. The roasted squash gives a slight sweetness, while the kale adds a nutritious crunch. Plus, this dish is perfect for those looking for a healthier option during the holiday season!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed butternut squash
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups cubed bread (preferably whole grain)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion until translucent. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted squash, sautéed onion and kale, bread cubes, sage, and pine nuts if using. Stir well.
4. Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture and toss to coat. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Maple Walnut Stuffing

This Maple Walnut Stuffing is a delightful twist on traditional stuffing. The combination of sweet maple syrup, crunchy walnuts, and earthy herbs creates a warm and inviting flavor that everyone will love. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed stale bread
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes, walnuts, cranberries, sage, salt, and pepper. Pour the vegetable broth and maple syrup over the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
4. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and crispy on top.

Crockpot Classic Stuffing

Crockpot classic stuffing is a warm, comforting side that brings the essence of Thanksgiving to your table. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it perfectly complements turkey and all the trimmings. Plus, using a crockpot makes it super simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with family.

This stuffing features cubes of bread soaked in broth and seasoned with herbs for that delicious holiday flavor. The slow cooking process ensures that every bite is infused with savory goodness, making it a standout dish at your feast.

Ingredients

• 10 cups bread, cubed (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed onion and celery, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Add Liquids: Pour in 2 cups of broth and beaten eggs. Stir gently, adding more broth as needed to moisten the bread without making it soggy.
4. Transfer to Crockpot: Pour the mixture into a greased crockpot. Spread it evenly and cover.
5. Cook: Set the crockpot on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the stuffing is hot and has absorbed the flavors.

Gluten-Free Herb Stuffing

This gluten-free herb stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic Thanksgiving favorite. It’s savory, aromatic, and packed with flavor from fresh herbs, making it a perfect side dish for your holiday feast. The crunchy texture of the toasted bread cubes pairs beautifully with the softness of the herbs and vegetables, creating a mouthwatering combination.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few fresh ingredients and some pantry staples, you can create a stuffing that everyone will love, regardless of dietary restrictions. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf gluten-free bread, cut into cubes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Spread the bread mixture on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
4. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and celery in a bit of olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, and vegetable broth. Stir until everything is well mixed.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the top is crispy.
7. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious gluten-free herb stuffing!

Stuffing Muffins (Single-Serve)

Stuffing muffins are a fun and modern twist on traditional Thanksgiving stuffing. They’re perfectly portioned for individual servings, making them a great choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Fluffy, savory, and loaded with flavors, these muffins offer a delightful bite of comfort, featuring herbs, vegetables, and a rich broth-soaked bread. If you’re looking for a simple recipe that adds a unique touch to your holiday table, these stuffing muffins are a perfect choice.

Making stuffing muffins is easy! You’ll mix together your favorite stuffing ingredients and bake them in a muffin tin for a crispy exterior and a tender inside. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit with guests of all ages!

Ingredients

• 4 cups cubed bread (stale or toasted)
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with muffin liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, celery, onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the broth, egg, and melted butter. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down gently to pack it in.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffing muffins!