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There’s just something magical about homemade stuffing—especially when it tastes just like the boxed kind we all grew up loving. But here’s the kicker: this version is totally from scratch. Yep, no mystery packets or preservatives here—just real, simple ingredients that come together in a totally nostalgic, buttery, herby medley of goodness.
Imagine your kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of toasted bread, sautéed onions, and warm spices dancing in butter. This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a cozy hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or just craving something warm and hearty on a Tuesday night, trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s satisfying, savory, and shockingly easy to pull off.
Let’s dig in, shall we?
Why You’ll Love Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch
Here’s the magic of this stuffing—it’s made with simple pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Dried Bread Cubes: The hearty, golden base of your stuffing. Slightly crunchy, they soak up all that delicious flavor like a sponge.
Onion: Brings a sweet, savory depth and a soft bite that makes every forkful satisfying.
Celery: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that cuts through the richness.
Butter: The flavor powerhouse. It’s what makes this taste rich, toasty, and utterly irresistible.
Chicken Bouillon Powder: Delivers that nostalgic, boxed-stuffing taste we all know and love.
Poultry Seasoning: The secret weapon of stuffing—earthy, herby, and full of fall vibes.
Garlic Powder: Adds just a touch of warmth and depth.
Salt & Pepper: The basics—but oh-so-essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 250°F. This low heat setting helps dry out your bread cubes without browning them too quickly—perfect texture is key.
Dry the Bread: Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet in an even layer. Bake until completely dry, about 45 minutes to 1 hour, tossing occasionally. This step creates the perfect base—trust me, no soggy stuffing here.
Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 8-10 minutes. This is where the flavor magic really begins.
Mix in the Seasoning: Stir in chicken bouillon powder, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for just another minute to bring everything together.
Combine Ingredients: Place dried bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour the butter and seasoning mixture over the cubes and gently toss until evenly coated.
Cool and Store (Optional): If you’re prepping ahead, let the mix cool completely and store in an airtight container. It’s ready to go whenever you need it!
Cook When Ready: When you’re ready to serve, just add broth and bake as you would with boxed stuffing. It puffs up beautifully and tastes even better than the store-bought version.
How to Serve Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute fresh bread instead of drying it out?
A1: Technically yes, but dried bread gives the best texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use fresh bread and dry it quickly in the oven.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the mix ahead and store it dry, or prep it all the way to the baking stage and refrigerate overnight.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the texture nice and toasty.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze the unbaked mix or baked leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: For sure! Just use a larger mixing bowl and double the ingredients. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Q7: What broth works best for baking?
A7: Chicken broth is classic, but vegetable broth works great too if you want a vegetarian version.
Q8: Can I use gluten-free bread?
A8: Totally! Just make sure it’s a sturdy type that can hold up to the liquid.
Q9: How can I make it spicier?
A9: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a little kick.
Q10: What if I don’t have poultry seasoning?
A10: You can make your own! Mix sage, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, and a touch of nutmeg.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new go-to for that boxed stuffing flavor without any of the box. It’s warm, nostalgic, and just begging to be a part of your next dinner table spread. Once you make this from scratch, you might never go back—and honestly, you won’t miss the packet.
So grab your apron, toast up that bread, and get ready to wow yourself (and everyone else). This recipe is all about keeping it simple, soulful, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy every buttery, herby bite!
Print
Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix From Scratch
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Two 6 oz mixes (approx. 6 servings per mix) 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ditch the box and make your own easy Copycat Boxed Stuffing Mix from scratch using day-old bread and pantry spices. This homemade version is freezer-friendly, flavor-packed, and ready in minutes when you need a cozy side dish! #HomemadeRecipes #EasyDinnerRecipes #StuffingMix #QuickDinnerIdeas #HolidaySides #FromScratchCooking #MealPrepIdeas
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed stale bread
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley
- 1/4 cup dried onion flakes
- 1/8 cup dried celery flakes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 1/4 cups water or broth (per 6 oz mix)
- 2 Tbsp butter (per 6 oz mix)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread cubed bread evenly on a large baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until dry and crispy.
- In a large zip-top bag, add all dried herbs and seasonings. Shake to combine.
- Add dried bread cubes to the bag and shake until fully coated with the seasoning mix.
- Divide into two portions (each equal to a 6 oz boxed stuffing mix). Store in airtight containers—up to 1 week in pantry or 6 months in freezer.
- To prepare stuffing, bring 1¼ cups of water or broth and 2 Tbsp butter to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in one container of mix (about 3 cups), remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, season with salt to taste, and serve.
Notes
- Make sure bread is fully dry before storing for long-term to avoid spoilage.
- Great for meal prep—store extra mix in the freezer for quick sides later.
- You can adjust the seasoning blend to match your personal or holiday preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz dry mix
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg