Every Thanksgiving, there’s one dish my family demands I never skip, the Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Recipe. It’s nostalgic, incredibly satisfying, and somehow tastes even better the next day. What makes this stuffing recipe so special is how it transforms a simple bag of seasoned bread cubes into a savory, herby, comfort-packed masterpiece. Whether I’m feeding a crowd at the holidays or just making a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish always delivers.
This recipe is the perfect mix of practical and heartwarming. It fits beautifully into festive holiday menus, but it’s also ideal for casual weeknights when you crave something warm and filling. Plus, it’s a dream for beginner cooks, easy, flexible, and forgiving.
With a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, the classic Pepperidge Farm stuffing recipe turns out fluffy, flavorful, and golden every time. And the best part? You can make it your own with just a few tweaks. More on that below.
So grab that bag of stuffing mix, and let’s turn it into something unforgettable.
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Why This Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Recipe Works Every Time
There’s a reason the Pepperidge Farm stuffing recipe has stood the test of time. It starts with the perfect base, seasoned, toasted bread cubes that are crisp on the outside but soft and absorbent inside. The texture is a key part of the appeal, especially when combined with sautéed aromatics, butter, broth, and optional extras like sausage or nuts.
What makes this version shine is its balanced ratio of moisture to bread, which ensures the stuffing is never soggy or dry. Plus, we sauté the onions and celery in butter to release their sweetness and deepen the flavor, adding richness with chicken broth and a touch of fresh herbs like sage and parsley. The result? Pure comfort with just the right savory punch.
This stuffing is also wonderfully customizable. Need to make it vegetarian? Use vegetable broth and skip the sausage. Gluten-free? Swap in a gluten-free bread stuffing mix. Want a richer version? Add browned sausage, mushrooms, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a sweet-tart surprise. Whether you bake it in a casserole or stuff it into a bird, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
And because the Pepperidge Farm mix is already seasoned, you’re starting with a solid, flavorful foundation, saving you time and stress in the kitchen.
Recipe Card
Pro Tips for the Best Ever Pepperidge Farm Stuffing
- Moisture Matters: Add broth gradually until the stuffing is moist but not overly soggy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Cooking celery and onions in butter intensifies flavor.
- Crispy Finish: Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top layer.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing can make the stuffing dense; toss ingredients lightly.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in cooked sausage or shredded chicken.
Variants of the Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Recipe
1. Sausage and Apple Stuffing
For a heartier, savory-sweet version, brown a half pound of breakfast sausage in your skillet before cooking the vegetables. Add one chopped apple (I like Granny Smith) while sautéing the onion and celery. The mix of spiced sausage and tart apple is a delicious upgrade that feels gourmet.
2. Mushroom and Herb Vegetarian Stuffing
Sauté a combination of cremini and shiitake mushrooms with the onions and celery for a deeply earthy, umami-rich version. Use vegetable broth and add fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage for aromatic balance. It’s a satisfying, plant-based twist that carnivores love too.
3. Cranberry-Pecan Holiday Stuffing
Perfect for Christmas or Friendsgiving, this version includes a half cup of chopped toasted pecans and a half cup of dried cranberries stirred into the bread mix. The nuts give a lovely crunch while the cranberries offer sweet contrast to the herbs.
4. Cheesy Garlic Bread Stuffing
Add a handful of shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan to the mix before baking. For extra garlicky flavor, stir in roasted garlic or a pinch of garlic powder. This one pairs great with roasted chicken.
FAQs
Absolutely! Assemble the stuffing and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh before serving.
Cover the stuffing with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Yes, cooked stuffing freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
The standard Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix is not gluten free. However, they do not currently offer a certified gluten-free version. If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten free, use a gluten-free stuffing mix or dried gluten-free bread cubes and follow the same preparation steps.
Health Benefits of Pepperidge Farm Stuffing
- Herb Benefits: Sage, thyme, and rosemary provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Customizable Nutrition: Adding vegetables, lean proteins, or nuts boosts nutrient content.
- Comfort Food: The warmth and aroma of stuffing evoke relaxation and satisfaction, which are essential for holiday enjoyment.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
Wrapping It Up
The Pepperidge Farm stuffing recipe isn’t just a holiday classic, it’s a flavorful, versatile staple you’ll find yourself craving all year long. Whether you’re preparing it for a Thanksgiving feast, a Sunday roast, or even as a creative weeknight side dish, this recipe delivers every time.
It’s nostalgic and easy, but also allows for so much creativity. The base is solid, the flavor is rich and comforting, and you can dress it up or down depending on what’s in your pantry. It also stores well, making it great for leftovers and meal prep.
For more comforting holiday side dishes, try our Lazy Lasagna Recipe, which is just as simple and satisfying!
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