Step 1: Prepare your bread. Cut your day-old bread into 1/2-inch cubes. Spread them out on baking sheets and let them air dry for several hours, or even overnight. For a quicker method, you can toast them in a 250°F (120°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once, until lightly golden and dry.
Step 2: Sauté the aromatics. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, cooking until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This forms the savory base for Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing.
Step 3: Combine with herbs and bread. Remove the skillet from heat. Add the fresh parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine. Transfer the sautéed vegetables and herbs to a very large mixing bowl. Add the dried bread cubes to the bowl.
Step 4: Moisten the stuffing. Gradually pour the warm chicken or vegetable broth over the bread and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. You want the bread to be thoroughly moistened but not soggy. If using, lightly beat the eggs and stir them in at this stage. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the liquid fully. This ensures a moist Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing.
Step 5: Prepare for baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or an equivalent oven-safe dish) with butter. Transfer the Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake the stuffing. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, then loosely cover with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Continue baking for another 15-25 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown on top and heated through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The foil helps create that ideal crispy top and moist interior, making Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing truly perfect.
Step 7: Rest and serve. Once baked, remove Our Favorite Buttery Herb Stuffing from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop.