1-First Step: Prepare the Bread Cubes Start by getting your bread ready for the best texture in this herb stuffing it’s the foundation! Let 18 to 24 ounces of bread cubes sit out overnight to stale, or toast them at 350 degrees F for about 15 minutes until they’re dry and slightly crispy. This helps them absorb the flavors without turning mushy, and for a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free bread to keep things inclusive. Remember, mixing stale and fresh bread types adds variety, making your herb stuffing even more delightful for all eaters.

2-Second Step: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish Once your bread is set, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish by buttering it or using olive oil or nonstick spray. This step takes just a couple of minutes and ensures your herb stuffing doesn’t stick, which is key for even baking. If you’re aiming for a vegan version, stick with olive oil here to keep it plant-based, helping maintain that moist texture everyone loves in herb stuffing.

3-Third Step: Cook the Vegetables and Herbs Now, in a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add 3 cups diced sweet onion, 1 cup celery, 2 cups celery, and 6 cloves minced garlic, along with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for 8-10 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally for even heat. For low-calorie adaptations, use less butter or swap it for a lighter oil, and if you’re vegan, ensure your butter substitute is ready this step infuses the core flavors into your herb stuffing perfectly.

4-Fourth Step: Add Herbs and Stock Stir in 3 tablespoons each of chopped fresh sage, parsley, and rosemary, cooking for another minute to release their aromas. Then, pour in 1 cup of the chicken or vegetable stock and mix well, which should take about 2 minutes. For dietary needs, use vegetable stock if going vegan, and adjust seasonings to taste this is where your herb stuffing really starts to shine with its savory profile.

5-Fifth Step: Combine with Bread Pour the veggie and herb mixture over your prepared bread cubes and toss everything together in a large bowl to coat evenly, which might take 3-5 minutes. To adapt, if you’re making a low-calorie version, monitor the stock amount to avoid excess moisture, ensuring your herb stuffing stays light and flavorful without overloading.

6-Sixth Step: Mix in Eggs and Remaining Stock In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining 1 1/2 cups of stock with 2 eggs, then fold this into the bread mixture until fully combined. This step helps bind everything, taking just a minute or two, but for vegan or egg-free preferences, omit the eggs and add extra broth to keep it moist it’s a simple tweak that maintains the essence of herb stuffing.

7-Final Step: Bake and Serve Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and bake at 350 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. If the top browns too fast, cover with foil to prevent burning, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. For gluten-free eaters, double-check your bread cubes, and this final touch makes your herb stuffing ready to enjoy as a versatile side that pairs with anything from roasted chicken to veggies.