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Best Creamy Brown Butter Sage Stuffing: 7 Easy Thanksgiving Tips

creamy brown butter sage stuffing - featured image

A rich, creamy, and nutty stuffing made with brown butter, fresh sage, and day-old sourdough bread. This recipe delivers a custard-like texture with a crispy top, perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf day-old sourdough or French bread, cubed (about 6 cups)
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups warm chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and spread on baking sheets. Bake for 10-15 minutes until dry and slightly toasted. Let cool completely.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Swirl occasionally until foam subsides, brown bits form, and a nutty aroma develops. Remove from heat immediately and pour into a measuring cup.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and chopped sage; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together warm stock, heavy cream, beaten eggs, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add toasted bread cubes to the bowl. Pour the brown butter and onion mixture over the top. Gently fold with a silicone spatula until bread is coated.
  6. Let the mixture rest for at least 15 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
  7. Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if using. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown and crispy.

Notes

Use day-old bread or toast fresh bread to ensure it absorbs liquid without becoming soggy. Brown butter is critical for flavor; watch closely to avoid burning. Letting the mixture rest is essential for moisture. For a gluten-free version, use GF bread and stock. For dairy-free, swap butter for olive oil and cream for coconut milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter sage stuffing, creamy stuffing, Thanksgiving side dish, sourdough stuffing, holiday recipes, easy stuffing