Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch

Okay, let me tell you something—if you love that classic boxed stuffing mix, but you’re craving something fresher, more flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new best friend. Seriously, this homemade version is going to blow your mind! Imagine a warm, golden-brown stuffing with just the right amount of crispy edges, tender inside, and a perfect balance of savory herbs. You’ll be hooked at first bite.

This homemade stuffing mix is super easy to make and will make your kitchen smell like the holidays, even if it’s a random Tuesday in April (but hey, who’s judging?). Trust me, once you try it, you won’t look back. The best part? You’ll have everything you need right in your pantry. So let’s dive in and whip up a batch of homemade stuffing magic!

Why You’ll Love Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch

This recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a total game-changer for those cozy nights or family gatherings. Here’s why it’s a total crowd-pleaser:

Versatile

Whether you’re whipping this up for Thanksgiving or just looking for a comforting side dish on a chilly night, this stuffing mix will fit right in. It’s perfect for special occasions, but you can easily make it for a weeknight dinner too. I mean, who doesn’t love a little stuffing love, any day of the week?

Budget-Friendly

Everything in this recipe is super affordable—no fancy ingredients needed. It’s made with basic pantry staples that you probably already have in your kitchen. So, whether you’re keeping things frugal or just don’t want to make a special trip to the store, you’re good to go!

Quick and Easy

Trust me, even if you’ve never made stuffing from scratch before, this recipe is simple and practically foolproof. You won’t have to deal with any confusing steps or fancy techniques. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll have a homemade stuffing mix in no time.

Customizable

This is where you get to have some fun! Love garlic? Add extra cloves. Want a little kick of heat? Toss in some chili flakes. You can easily tweak the flavors to match your mood. The beauty of homemade stuffing is that YOU get to control the flavor, making it exactly what you want.

Crowd-Pleasing

You’re going to be the hero of your dinner table. Everyone loves a good stuffing, and this homemade version has all the goodness without the artificial flavoring. Whether you’re serving it alongside a turkey or just as a side dish, expect rave reviews.

Ingredients in Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch

Here’s the beauty of this stuffing mix—it’s made from a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something so much more than the sum of its parts:

Bread Cubes

The base of our stuffing. Use day-old bread (or a loaf that’s been sitting around for a day or two), and it will soak up all those delicious flavors perfectly. I recommend a sturdy bread like white, sourdough, or whole wheat.

Herbs

This is where the magic happens! A mix of dried herbs like thyme, sage, rosemary, and parsley will give you that comforting, classic stuffing flavor. You can’t have stuffing without those warm, herby notes.

Butter

Oh yes, butter. It adds richness and depth to the stuffing, making it moist and full of flavor. Don’t skimp on this—trust me, it’s worth it.

Onion and Celery

These two are key for that savory, aromatic base. They cook down into a soft, flavorful filling that makes the stuffing taste like you’ve been slaving over it all day (but really, it only takes a few minutes).

Chicken Broth

To bring it all together. Chicken broth adds moisture and a savory depth of flavor to the stuffing, helping the bread cubes soak up all that goodness. If you’re vegetarian, just use vegetable broth instead.

(Note: the full ingredient list with measurements will be provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful stuffing mix from scratch:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and hot to get that crispy, golden finish on your stuffing.

Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. The smell will already be making you hungry, trust me.

Add the Herbs

Once your veggies are soft, toss in the dried herbs—thyme, sage, rosemary, and parsley. Stir everything together for another minute or so, letting the herbs release their aromatic oils. It’s the best!

Mix in the Bread

In a large bowl, combine your cubed bread with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Mix it all together so that the bread cubes are coated with the buttery, herby goodness.

Pour the Broth

Now, pour your chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture. Stir it gently, making sure the bread absorbs the broth, but don’t let it get too soggy. You want it to be moist but not drenched.

Bake to Perfection

Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Don’t be afraid to sneak a bite—you’ll know it’s ready when that irresistible stuffing aroma fills your kitchen.

Serve and Enjoy

Once your stuffing is golden and crispy, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then serve it warm and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch

This stuffing pairs so well with just about anything. Here are a few suggestions to round out your meal:

• With Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Let’s be real—stuffing and roasted meats are a match made in heaven.
• Crisp Green Salad: The freshness of a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffing perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling extra cozy, mashed potatoes are always a great side to serve with stuffing. You can even top your potatoes with a scoop of stuffing!

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: Make your stuffing a day ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Make It Your Own: Feel free to add your own favorite ingredients, like sausage, mushrooms, or even nuts for some crunch.
• Store Leftovers: Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven for that crispy texture!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the bread with a gluten-free version?
A1: Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free bread and you’ll still have a delicious stuffing.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mix and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I freeze the stuffing?
A3: Yes! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as usual.

Q4: How do I reheat leftover stuffing?
A4: Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and crispy on top.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: You can easily double this recipe—just be sure to use a larger baking dish to fit all that delicious stuffing!

Conclusion

Trust me, once you taste this homemade version of boxed stuffing, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought kind again. It’s that perfect balance of savory, buttery, herby goodness, with just the right amount of crunch. And the best part? You can customize it however you like to make it your perfect stuffing. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

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