Dressing up your holiday table begins with this Classic Cranberry Turkey Stuffing, a savory-sweet blend of herbs and tart cranberries. Bake it to golden perfection in just over an hour for a comforting side that guests will request year after year.
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A Stuffing That Feels Like Home
- Perfect Texture – Toasted bread cubes give you that crave-worthy contrast of crispy top and soft center.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble it the day before and just pop it in the oven when guests arrive.
- Flavor Harmony – Sweet dried cranberries and savory herbs create a beautiful balance in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort – This homemade stuffing with celery and onion is the holiday side dish everyone remembers.
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
For the stuffing
- Day-old rustic white bread – Cut into cubes for that perfect texture. Fresh bread works too, but day-old holds up better.
- Unsalted butter – Always a must for richness and flavor.
- Yellow onion – Finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the mix.
- Celery – Adds a subtle crunch and freshness—don’t skip it!
- Fresh sage – A classic herb that brings a cozy, earthy flavor.
- Fresh thyme leaves – Bright and aromatic, it’s a game-changer here.
- Kosher salt – Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground for a little kick.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the stuffing moist without overwhelming it.
- Eggs – Lightly beaten to bind everything together.
- Dried cranberries – A sweet-tart pop that’s so good with the savory elements.
- Fresh parsley – Finely chopped for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Let’s Talk Timing, Friend
I know holiday cooking can feel like a marathon, but I promise this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing won’t keep you chained to the stove. You’ll spend about 25 minutes getting everything prepped—I love putting on some music and making this my cozy morning ritual.
The oven does most of the work for about 65 minutes, filling your kitchen with the most incredible aroma of savory baked stuffing with cranberries and herbs. In just over an hour and a half, you’ll have a golden brown baked bread stuffing ready to share. It’s the kind of slow, satisfying cooking that makes the holidays feel special. If you’re looking for more make-ahead sides, our herb stuffing is another fantastic option.
Cranberry Turkey Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds day-old rustic white bread, cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1.5 cups celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 0.75 cup dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a large baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until dry and lightly golden, then transfer to a very large mixing bowl.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for 8 to 10 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Stir the cooked vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper into the toasted bread cubes, mixing gently to combine.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and beaten eggs, then pour this liquid over the bread mixture. Add the cranberries and parsley and fold everything together until the bread is evenly moistened.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spread it into an even layer, and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is crispy and golden brown and the center is hot.
- Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes outside the oven before serving to allow it to set for easier scooping.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Making It Work for Your Table
I love when everyone can gather around the same dish, so here are some simple tweaks if you’re sugar-conscious or managing dietary needs. For a lower glycemic version, you could reduce the dried cranberries by half or use a natural sugar alternative like chopped apples for sweetness.
Using whole grain bread instead of white can add fiber and make this moist herb stuffing with dried cranberries even more blood sugar friendly. And remember, portion size is your friend here—a little of this flavorful holiday side with fresh sage goes a long way in balancing your plate.
My Best Kitchen Secrets for You
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing truly shine. Here’s what I do every time to ensure it comes out perfect:
- Toast your bread properly – Spread those cubes in a single layer and take them to a light golden color. This prevents a mushy texture and gives you that wonderful contrast.
- Don’t rush the veggies – Cook your onion and celery until they’re softened but not browned. That gentle sweetness forms the flavor foundation of your homemade Cranberry Turkey Stuffing.
- Check for moisture – After mixing, squeeze a handful gently. If it holds together without dripping, you’ve got the perfect amount of liquid. If it seems dry, add another splash of broth.
- Make it ahead – Assemble everything the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s going in cold. This is my secret for stress-free entertaining! For more make-ahead inspiration, check out our thanksgiving casserole.
Nourishment That Feels Like a Hug
While this Thanksgiving turkey stuffing is definitely a celebration dish, it brings more to the table than just incredible flavor. The celery and onion provide antioxidants and fiber, while the cranberries offer a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Using whole grain bread would add even more fiber and nutrients if you’re looking to boost the nutritional profile. I believe food should nourish both body and soul, and this baked cranberry stuffing does exactly that. For those interested in lighter options, the Traditional Bread Stuffing Method offers some great techniques, and our healthy thanksgiving sides provide more balanced choices.
A Lighter Take on Tradition
If you’re looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor, I’ve got some tried-and-true modifications. You can reduce the butter by 2 tablespoons and substitute with extra chicken broth for moisture—the herbs and vegetables provide so much flavor that you won’t miss it.
For a fiber boost, use whole grain or sourdough bread instead of white. I sometimes add extra celery and onions to increase the vegetable content too. If you enjoy these adaptations, you might also love our cornbread dressing which has a naturally heartier texture. And for those watching sodium, using homemade low-sodium broth lets you control the salt content perfectly.
Gathering Around the Table
I remember my grandmother serving her version of this stuffing in her favorite ceramic dish, the one with little wheat stalks painted on the side. The whole family would gather as she brought it to the table, steam rising like a promise of comfort to come.
This Cranberry Turkey Stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, of course, but it’s also wonderful with roast turkey and all the classic Thanksgiving sides. For something different, try it alongside pork chops or roasted chicken—the sweet-tart cranberries complement savory meats perfectly. Leftovers make the most incredible turkey stew the next day too.
Common Mistakes (So You Don’t Make Them)
Even the best cooks can run into trouble with stuffing, so here’s what to watch for based on my own kitchen experiences:
- Using fresh bread – Fresh bread turns to mush. Always use day-old or toasted bread cubes for the perfect texture that holds up to the liquid.
- Overmixing – Gently fold the ingredients rather than stirring vigorously. You want to maintain some texture rather than creating a homogeneous mixture.
- Skipping the rest time – Letting the stuffing rest for 10 minutes after baking allows it to set properly, making serving so much easier.
- Not tasting before baking – Taste the mixture before it goes in the oven and adjust seasoning. Remember, flavors mellow during baking, so it should taste slightly over-seasoned raw.
For more technique insights, the British Stuffing Preparation Methods offer interesting perspectives. And if you’re cooking for a smaller group, our thanksgiving for two guide has portion-sized tips.
Keeping the Comfort Going
There’s something special about opening the refrigerator the day after Thanksgiving and finding that container of leftover stuffing. It holds all the warmth and laughter of the previous day’s feast, ready to be enjoyed all over again.
Store your leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or you can microwave individual portions. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. I love using leftovers in our turkey taco soup or as a stuffing for peppers. If you find yourself with extra cranberries, our sugared cranberries make a beautiful garnish for desserts.
Your New Holiday Tradition Awaits
I truly believe this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing will become one of those recipes your family asks for year after year. There’s something magical about how the savory herbs, sweet cranberries, and comforting bread come together to create more than just a side dish—it becomes part of your holiday story.
Whether you’re hosting a full feast or creating a smaller celebration, this stuffing brings that same warmth and generosity to any table. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! For more holiday inspiration, explore our wild rice stuffing, mushroom croissant stuffing, or even thanksgiving for one if you’re celebrating solo this year.
More Cozy Holiday Recipes You’ll Love
If this cranberry turkey stuffing found its way to your heart, here are more comforting recipes that make the holidays special:
- Classic Herb Stuffing – A traditional favorite with aromatic herbs that will fill your kitchen with the scent of holidays.
- Wild Rice Stuffing – Hearty and nutty, this version brings wonderful texture and depth to your holiday table.
- Mushroom Croissant Stuffing – Buttery croissants and earthy mushrooms create an indulgent twist on the classic.
- Southern Cornbread Dressing – A slightly sweet, crumbly dressing that’s pure comfort food from the South.
Your Questions, Answered
Can you put fresh cranberries in stuffing for turkey?
You absolutely can use fresh cranberries, but I recommend chopping them roughly first since they’re quite firm and tart. They’ll provide a brighter, more assertive tang compared to dried cranberries. If you go this route, you might want to add a touch more sweetener to balance the sharpness.
What are common stuffing mistakes to avoid?
The biggest mistakes I see are using fresh bread (which turns mushy), overmixing the ingredients, and not letting the stuffing rest after baking. Also, make sure to taste before baking and season well—the flavors mellow during cooking. Properly toasting your bread cubes makes all the difference for texture.
Can I put dried cranberries in my stuffing?
Yes, and I highly recommend it! Dried cranberries work beautifully in stuffing because they plump up during cooking and provide little bursts of sweet-tart flavor. They’re what give this Cranberry Turkey Stuffing its signature taste and festive appearance. No need to soak them first—just fold them in as directed.
What is a turkey stuffing and cranberry sandwich called?
While it doesn’t have a universal name, many people call it a “Thanksgiving sandwich” or “holiday leftovers sandwich.” It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy leftover Cranberry Turkey Stuffing—just layer it with turkey between two slices of bread, maybe with a little gravy or mayonnaise. Pure comfort! For more leftover ideas, check out our savory turkey soup.
