My Mom’s Perfect Thanksgiving Stuffing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thanksgiving is synonymous with family, laughter, and a table brimming with delicious dishes. And no Thanksgiving feast is complete without the perfect stuffing—a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. My mom’s stuffing has been a family favorite for years, loved for its savory aroma and perfectly balanced textures. Here’s a detailed guide on how to recreate my mom’s perfect Thanksgiving stuffing from start to finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this stuffing, gather the following ingredients:

10 cups of cubed day-old bread (white, whole wheat, or a mix)
1 cup unsalted butter
2 medium onions, finely chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon fresh sage (or ½ teaspoon dried)
½ teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
2 to 2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled, or ½ cup dried cranberries or chopped nuts for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet.
Toast the bread for 15–20 minutes until it’s dry but not browned. This ensures the stuffing absorbs flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the herbs bloom in the butter for 1–2 minutes.