Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Classic Sage and Onion Stuffing Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Michelle Davis
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

A timeless, comforting side dish made with buttery onions, aromatic sage, and tender bread cubes baked to golden perfection. This traditional recipe captures the warmth of homemade cooking, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. It’s simple, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, vegetables, or hearty main courses.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 cups day-old bread cubes (white or whole wheat)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter

  • 2 ½ cups yellow onions, finely chopped

  • 1 ½ cups celery, chopped

  • 3 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 ½ to 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low sodium)

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (optional)


Instructions

  • Cut the bread into cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Let them sit overnight to dry out, or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until slightly crisp.

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft and translucent.

  • Stir in the sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

  • Place the dried bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the buttery onion mixture over the bread and toss gently to coat evenly.

  • Gradually pour in the broth, 1 cup at a time, tossing lightly after each addition. The bread should be moist but not soggy. If using eggs, stir them in at this stage.

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish.

  • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

  • Serve warm as a flavorful side dish with roasted chicken, turkey, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Dry bread is key to the perfect stuffing texture; avoid using fresh bread.

  • Add broth gradually to prevent sogginess—stop when the mixture is just moist.

  • Fresh sage provides the best flavor, but dried works well too.

  • Make ahead by assembling the mixture a day early; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

  • For extra texture, mix in sautéed mushrooms, diced apples, or dried cranberries before baking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes