40 Delicious Stuffing Recipes for Your Holiday Feast

Stuffing is the cozy side dish that makes a holiday spread feel complete. From tried-and-true sage to bold global flavors, each of these forty recipes can hold its own alongside turkey, ham, or a meat-free centerpiece. Many can be assembled a day ahead, and most bake up beautifully in their own dish, freeing your oven for other favorites. Scan the list, pick a pan, and get ready for grateful guests.

1. Classic Sage & Onion Stuffing

Buttery bread cubes scented with fresh sage, sautéed onions, and a hint of black pepper never go out of style. Moistened with rich turkey or vegetable stock, this stuffing bakes to a crisp top with a tender, steamy center. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and pairs well with almost any gravy. Prep it in the morning and pop it in the oven while the bird rests.

2. Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

Sweet cornbread meets savory breakfast sausage in this Southern staple. The sausage drippings replace some of the butter, adding smoky depth and keeping every bite moist. A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish just before serving. Bake it in cast iron for extra crispy edges.

3. Wild Rice & Mushroom Stuffing

Earthy wild rice brings a nutty chew that contrasts nicely with tender sautéed cremini and shiitake mushrooms. Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian while thyme and a splash of sherry boost aroma. The dish is naturally gluten-free and holds up well on a buffet. Leftovers make an excellent base for stuffed peppers.

4. Apple & Cranberry Stuffing

Tart dried cranberries and diced Granny Smith apples add pops of sweetness to every forkful. A hint of cinnamon underscores the fruit without turning the dish into dessert. Use a sturdy artisanal loaf so the bread holds its shape after soaking up cider-spiked stock. It brightens rich roasts beautifully.

5. Italian Ciabatta Stuffing with Parmesan

Chunks of chewy ciabatta soak up garlic-infused broth and melted butter, then toast under a shower of Parmesan. Sun-dried tomatoes bring subtle acidity while basil adds freshness at the finish. The result is a stuffing that feels both familiar and a little bit pizza-adjacent. Serve a spoonful with roast chicken or prime rib.

6. Gluten-Free Herb Stuffing

Using sturdy gluten-free bread cubes and plenty of olive oil keeps this stuffing moist without wheat. Classic aromatics—celery, onion, and mixed herbs—deliver the familiar holiday flavor profile. A quick whisk of eggs into the stock helps bind the bread so it doesn’t crumble. No one will guess it’s gluten-free unless you tell them.

7. Chestnut & Bacon Stuffing

Smoky bacon marries beautifully with sweet roasted chestnuts for a luxurious side. Bacon fat flavors the bread cubes, while chopped sage keeps richness in check. Toasted chestnut chunks add buttery crunch and a hint of sweetness. It’s comfort food dressed for the holidays.

8. Oyster Stuffing

A coastal classic, this stuffing tucks briny shucked oysters into cubes of airy French bread. A splash of their liquor enriches the broth for an unmistakable sea-kissed flavor. Bake until the top browns but the oysters remain tender. It pairs especially well with roast turkey or baked ham.

9. Chorizo & Poblano Cornbread Stuffing

Spanish-style chorizo adds smoky heat, while roasted poblanos lend mild green-chile depth. Cornbread soaks up the chorizo drippings and keeps things slightly sweet. Cilantro stirred in at the end brightens each bite. Serve this with roast chicken or alongside holiday tamales.

10. Vegan Mushroom Walnut Stuffing

Olive oil-browned mushrooms and toasted walnuts add meaty texture without animal products. Vegetable broth, fresh thyme, and a splash of soy sauce create savory depth. A flaxseed “egg” helps bind the cubes of crusty bread. The result is hearty enough to satisfy omnivores too.

11. Quinoa & Dried Fruit Stuffing

Protein-rich quinoa replaces bread for a lighter, gluten-free alternative. Dried apricots and golden raisins lend gentle sweetness that balances savory vegetable stock and herbs. Toasted almonds finish the dish with crunch. It’s ideal for guests who prefer lighter sides.

12. Brioche & Apricot Stuffing

Rich brioche cubes bake up custardy inside and crispy on top, almost like a savory bread pudding. Chopped dried apricots add bright bursts of flavor. A touch of poultry seasoning ties it back to classic holiday aromas. It works wonders with roast duck or turkey alike.

13. Spinach & Feta Stuffing

Inspired by spanakopita, this stuffing layers sautéed spinach, dill, and tangy feta into toasted bread cubes. Olive oil replaces some of the butter for Mediterranean flair. A hint of lemon zest brightens the final flavors. It’s a fresh counterpoint to rich gravies.

14. Pretzel & Beer Cheese Stuffing

Soft pretzel bites soak up a malty lager-spiked broth before being crowned with sharp cheddar. The result channels beer-cheese dip in stuffing form. Grainy mustard stirred in adds a pleasant tang. Pair it with roast pork loin or bratwurst for a German-inspired feast.

15. Maple Pecan Cornbread Stuffing

Maple syrup lends gentle sweetness that plays nicely with nutty, toasted pecans. A hint of cayenne keeps the dish from veering too sugary. Bake until the edges caramelize slightly for a crunchy crust. It’s excellent with glazed ham or roast turkey.

16. Sausage & Leek Stuffing

Mild pork sausage and buttery leeks join forces for deep, savory flavor. Deglaze the pan with white wine to lift all those tasty browned bits. The leeks soften to silky threads that weave through every bite. Finish with cracked black pepper for a gentle kick.

17. Butternut Squash & Sage Stuffing

Sweet roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with woodsy sage in this autumnal stuffing. The squash cubes lend color and extra moisture to the bread base. A drizzle of browned butter before baking intensifies flavor. It’s lovely next to turkey or roast chicken.

18. Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice Stuffing

Nutty wild rice, tart cranberries, and toasted pecans create a lively blend of textures. Orange zest perfumes the dish without overpowering it. Because wild rice doesn’t get soggy, this stuffing holds well on a buffet line. It’s naturally gluten-free too.

19. Rustic Rye & Caraway Stuffing

Peppery caraway seeds give rye bread cubes deli-style character. Chicken stock, sautéed onions, and a splash of dark beer round out the flavors. The dense bread creates a heartier, chewier texture than white loaf versions. Serve it alongside corned beef or roast beef for something different.

20. Pancetta & Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffing

Salty pancetta crisps up and perfumes the bread cubes with savory richness. Chewy sun-dried tomatoes contribute tang and a pop of color. Fresh oregano ties everything together in true Italian fashion. A sprinkle of grated Pecorino just before serving seals the deal.

21. Lemon & Herb Mediterranean Stuffing

Ciabatta cubes soak up olive oil, garlic, and plenty of fresh parsley and mint. Lemon zest and juice give the dish a sunny lift that contrasts rich mains. Toasted pine nuts scattered over the top add welcome crunch. It brings a breath of warm-weather flavor to cold-weather meals.

22. Cajun Andouille Cornbread Stuffing

Spicy andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning bring bayou energy to simple cornbread. Bell pepper, celery, and onion—the Holy Trinity—round out the flavor base. A drizzle of hot sauce before serving adds extra kick. It’s a knockout with fried turkey.

23. Mushroom & Chestnut Gluten-Free Stuffing

This recipe leans on hearty gluten-free baguettes, earthy mushrooms, and sweet chestnuts for body. Fresh thyme and a splash of Madeira deliver depth. Bake until a crunchy top forms, then drizzle with browned butter for a luxe finish. Guests with dietary restrictions will be thrilled.

24. Bacon, Apple & Cheddar Stuffing

Smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cozy up to sweet apple chunks in this savory-sweet mash-up. The cheddar melts into gooey pockets that surprise every bite. A dash of apple cider vinegar keeps things balanced. Try it with roast pork or turkey.

25. Sweet Potato & Kale Stuffing

Roasted sweet potato cubes lend natural sweetness and color, while kale adds a vitamin boost. Whole-wheat baguette gives the stuffing a nutty backbone. Cinnamon and smoked paprika provide subtle warmth. It’s hearty enough to double as a vegetarian main.

26. Herb Focaccia Stuffing

Using day-old focaccia means olive oil and herbs are already baked into the bread. Additional rosemary and thyme heighten aroma in the oven. Because focaccia is airy, it crisps on top while staying tender inside. Consider adding roasted garlic for even more flavor.

27. Moroccan Spiced Couscous Stuffing

Fluffy couscous scented with cumin, coriander, and cinnamon brings North African flair. Golden raisins, diced carrots, and slivered almonds add texture and sweetness. A drizzle of pomegranate molasses at the table supplies tangy contrast. It pairs nicely with lamb or roast chicken.

28. Blue Cheese & Walnut Sourdough Stuffing

Pungent blue cheese melts into tangy sourdough, delivering big flavor in small bites. Toasted walnuts give crunch and balance the cheese’s richness. Fresh rosemary keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Serve it with beef tenderloin or roasted vegetables.

29. Smoked Turkey & Corn Stuffing

Leftover smoked turkey finds new life folded into buttery bread cubes and sweet corn. A dash of smoked paprika amplifies the barbecue notes. Because the turkey is already cooked, add it near the end to keep it juicy. It’s a smart way to stretch leftovers.

30. Brown Butter Hazelnut Stuffing

Nutty browned butter infuses each bread cube with deep caramel flavor. Toasted hazelnuts echo the butter’s richness and add crunch. A pinch of fresh thyme and cracked pepper balances the sweetness. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly nuanced.

31. Artichoke & Parmesan Stuffing

Canned or frozen artichoke hearts make this recipe weeknight-easy while still feeling special. Parmesan forms a golden crust as the stuffing bakes. Lemon juice keeps the artichokes bright and prevents heaviness. It’s delicious with roast chicken or fish.

32. Pecan Praline Cornbread Stuffing

This Southern twist layers crunchy praline pecans over slightly sweet cornbread. Brown sugar and butter create a caramel glaze that melts into the cubes. A little cayenne in the mix offsets the sweetness. It feels like dessert disguised as a side dish.

33. Sausage, Sage & Oyster Stuffing

For those who can’t decide, this recipe blends land and sea flavors into one pan. Mild country sausage, briny oysters, and classic sage complement rather than compete. Use sturdy bakery bread so it doesn’t turn mushy. A touch of hot sauce wakes everything up.

34. Pumpkin & Cranberry Stuffing

Roasted pumpkin adds creamy texture, while cranberries lend tart contrast. Whole-wheat bread and a drizzle of maple syrup round out the fall flavors. Fresh sage brings it back to traditional territory. It looks as festive as it tastes.

35. Caramelized Onion & Gruyère Stuffing

Slow-cooked onions turn jammy and sweet, pairing beautifully with nutty Gruyère. A splash of dry sherry deepens the flavor even more. The cheese melts into gooey ribbons that stretch as you serve. This one disappears fast.

36. Barley & Mushroom Stuffing

Pearl barley offers a pleasantly chewy base that won’t get soggy. Cremini mushrooms, garlic, and thyme provide classic stuffing character. Vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly. Leftovers make a great lunch topped with a poached egg.

37. Jalapeño Cornbread Stuffing

Fresh jalapeños add gentle heat and a pop of color to sweet cornbread. Use pickled peppers for even more tang. Cheddar cheese folded in halfway through baking adds richness. Serve with roast turkey or grilled chicken for a Southwestern vibe.

38. Greek Lemon, Dill & Olive Stuffing

Crusty bread cubes mingle with briny olives, fresh dill, and bright lemon for Mediterranean freshness. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil stands in for some of the butter. Crumbled feta is optional but highly recommended. It pairs surprisingly well with roast lamb.

39. Herb Stuffing Muffins

Baking stuffing in muffin tins creates crispy edges on every serving. Classic celery, onion, and sage keep the flavor traditional. They reheat easily, making them perfect for potlucks. Kids love them too because they look like savory cupcakes.

40. Slow-Cooker Classic Stuffing

Free up oven space by letting the slow cooker handle your stuffing. Low, moist heat keeps the interior fluffy while a final thirty minutes on high firms up the edges. Use any favorite herb blend to make it your own. Transporting it to a gathering is a snap—just bring the crock.