12 Stuffing Recipes That Go Way Beyond the Basics

Stuffing is one of the most dependable and flavorful parts of any Thanksgiving meal, sometimes even more anticipated than the turkey. It brings together the best of the holiday kitchen: buttery bread, savory herbs, rich broth, and whatever extras make it your own. Over time, stuffing has evolved beyond the traditional dish tucked inside the bird, with new versions baked into casseroles, layered with meats, or packed with vegetables, fruit, and spices.

Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

A rectangular white baking dish filled with stuffing made of bread cubes, cranberries, herbs, and chopped vegetables, garnished with fresh sage leaves. — Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

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Crumbly cornbread and sweet, nutty chestnuts come together for a stuffing that feels soft and rustic. The chestnuts bring a buttery bite, while the cornbread keeps everything tender. Herbs and onions tie it all into a rich, comforting mix. A great side for those looking for something a little Southern or a little different.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing

Sage and Sausage Stuffing

Crumpled sausage and lots of fresh sage bring big, classic flavor to this stuffing. It’s soft inside with a crispy top, and the aroma alone makes it feel like Thanksgiving. The sausage adds spice and depth. A traditional take that always works.
Get the Recipe: Sage and Sausage Stuffing

Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole

Stuffing and pork chops in a frying pan. — Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Thick pork chops roast over a bed of moist stuffing, infusing the dish with savory juices as it bakes. The top turns golden while the bread below stays rich and flavorful. It’s a two-in-one dish that brings comfort without much prep. Ideal for Thanksgiving week when you want a filling meal with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole

Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

A dish of granola with cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. — Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This colorful casserole mixes roasted sweet potatoes with tart cranberries, toasted almonds, and seasoned bread. The result is both sweet and savory with chewy, soft, and crunchy textures throughout. It feels fresh and seasonal without losing that stuffing comfort. A standout for guests who like something unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole

Apple Sausage Stuffing

Sweet apple chunks and savory sausage give this stuffing layers of fall flavor in every bite. The apples soften in the oven while the sausage brings richness and spice. Bread cubes soak up the drippings, herbs, and broth. It’s hearty enough to be the best bite on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Apple Sausage Stuffing

Vegan Stuffing

A cast iron skillet filled with bread stuffing mixed with vegetables and herbs, with two forks resting inside. — Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Made without meat or dairy, this stuffing still delivers on flavor with plenty of herbs, sautéed vegetables, and vegetable broth. The texture is fluffy and moist, with a golden top if baked. It fits seamlessly into any Thanksgiving spread. No one will notice it’s vegan unless you tell them.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Sage and Bacon Stuffing

A white baking dish filled with cubed bread stuffing mixed with herbs and pieces of vegetables, with a serving spoon inside. — Sage and Bacon Stuffing. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This version layers smoky bacon with fresh herbs for a stuffing that’s bold and deeply savory. The bacon fat adds richness, and the bread absorbs it all. The flavor is salty, herby, and just a little indulgent. It’s a strong side dish that pairs perfectly with gravy and turkey.
Get the Recipe: Sage and Bacon Stuffing

Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

This comforting casserole combines shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and seasoned stuffing in one simple bake. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish in the days surrounding the holiday. The top gets crisp while the inside stays rich and soft. A great way to stretch leftovers, or skip the big meal altogether.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing

Close-up of a serving of creamy chicken casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs, garnished with chopped herbs, on a dark plate with a fork. — 4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

With just chicken, stuffing mix, broth, and cream of soup, this slow cooker dish delivers a full, cozy meal. The chicken turns tender while the stuffing absorbs every bit of flavor. It requires almost no hands-on time. Perfect for a low-key dinner before or after Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: 4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing

Garlic and Herb Stuffing

A white baking dish filled with golden-brown cubed bread stuffing garnished with herbs, resting on a white surface next to a striped towel and a wooden spoon. — Garlic and Herb Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This stuffing keeps things simple with plenty of garlic, fresh herbs, and a good crusty bread base. The flavor is clean and comforting, with a golden baked top. It doesn’t need sausage or extras to feel complete. A classic choice for anyone who likes their sides full of flavor but easy to pair with everything else.
Get the Recipe: Garlic and Herb Stuffing

Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

A wooden spoon scoops a serving of casserole topped with crispy stuffing and green beans from a baking dish. — Green Bean Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Green beans are folded into a seasoned stuffing mix, giving this casserole a fresh crunch to balance the soft bread base. It’s a clever combination of two classic sides in one easy dish. The texture is a mix of crisp and savory, with a golden top. A solid addition to round out the Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Stuffing Casserole

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing

A spoon holds a serving of bread stuffing with herbs, cranberries, and visible chunks of vegetables above a casserole dish. — Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This stuffing packs bold flavor into every bite with smoky sausage, tart cranberries, and a splash of whiskey. The air fryer gives it a crisp, golden crust while keeping the center soft. It’s rich, a little fruity, and unexpectedly easy. A modern twist that stands out on any Thanksgiving plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing