Description
A delightful, easy, and hearty stuffing casserole with crispy edges and a moist, flavorful center, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. It features a golden herb topping for an incredible aroma.
Ingredients
- 15 oz stale bread cubes (sourdough, artisan, or sandwich bread)
- 4.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 0.25 cup fresh herbs (sage, thyme, parsley), chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Prep and Toast Ingredients: Dice onion and celery. Finely chop fresh herbs, reserving some. If bread is not stale, lightly toast cubes in oven at 300F (150C) for 10 minutes until dried out.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, cooking for about 8 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
- Combine Wet and Dry: In a very large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, broth, salt, pepper, and most chopped fresh herbs. Add stale bread cubes and sautéed vegetables. Gently toss until all bread is evenly moistened, adding an extra 0.25 cup broth if too dry.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly and pressing gently to level the surface.
- Prepare Herb Topping: Melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter. Stir in reserved chopped fresh herbs. Drizzle this herb-infused butter evenly over the top of the stuffing mixture.
- Bake Casserole: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown on top, bubbly, and crispy. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should register 165F (74C).
Notes
Prepare vegetables and cube bread the night before for faster assembly. Use gluten-free bread or plant-based butter for dietary needs. For a healthier twist, use whole-wheat bread or add extra vegetables like spinach or diced carrots. If the casserole is too dry, add more broth; if too wet, bake longer uncovered. For an extra-crispy topping, bake 5-10 minutes longer uncovered or broil briefly at the end (watch continuously). Dried herbs or poultry seasoning can substitute for fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 300 calories
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: stuffing casserole, herb topping, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, family friendly, budget friendly, savory, baking