Buttered stuffing with celery and leeks is the kind of classic, comforting side that brings simple ingredients together in a way that feels nostalgic and deeply satisfying. This dish leans on the rich flavor of melted butter, the gentle sweetness of leeks, and the fresh crunch of celery to create a stuffing that is soft, aromatic, and full of cozy character. It is not overloaded with mix ins or heavy seasonings, which allows the vegetables and buttery bread to shine through. The result is a side that feels traditional yet elevated, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or any meal that calls for something warm and homey.
The foundation starts with bread cubes dried until they are firm enough to soak up every drop of buttery goodness. Leeks, sautéed slowly in butter, become silky and tender, releasing a mild onion flavor that is far more delicate than standard onions. Celery adds freshness and a subtle crunch that keeps the stuffing balanced. Together, the two vegetables create layers of flavor without overpowering the dish. A sprinkle of herbs like thyme, parsley, or sage adds warmth and fragrance, rounding everything out in a way that feels familiar and comforting.
Once the vegetables are cooked, they are folded into the bread cubes along with broth just enough to moisten without turning mushy. The mixture bakes until golden on top and soft inside, with edges that crisp lightly under the oven’s heat. Each spoonful carries the clean, earthy notes of the leeks, the brightness of the celery, and the richness of butter soaked bread.
What makes this stuffing special is how beautifully it pairs with a variety of main dishes. It complements oven roasted turkey, chicken, or pork, and it works just as well alongside vegetarian mains. Because the flavors are simple and clean, it adds balance to richer foods and blends seamlessly into a holiday spread.
Buttered stuffing with celery and leeks proves that you do not need extravagant ingredients to create something memorable. With its tender texture, buttery aroma, and delicate vegetable flavors, it adds warmth, comfort, and timeless appeal to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter plus more for greasing
- 3 cups leeks white and light green parts, chopped
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth preferably homemade
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly golden, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and celery; cook, stirring, until soft, about 10 minutes.
- Add sage and parsley, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, leek mixture, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake until the top is golden and crisp, another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Nutrition
I didn’t have celery so used bell peppers. Still delicious! Can’t wait to try it the right way.
It was too salty for my taste. I would cut back on the salt next time.
Stuffing is the best part of Thanksgiving! This one didn’t disappoint!
Totally agree! Stuffing makes the whole meal! Yours sounds delish!
Isn’t stuffing just a way to use old bread? I dunno, this doesn’t sound appealing.
This stuffing was a hit at our family dinner! So flavorful and moist. Will def make again!
I swapped the chicken broth for vegetable broth since we have a vegetarian in the family, turned out great!
But is it really the same? I feel like chicken broth gives it that special flavor. Not sure about the veggie broth, but glad it worked for you.
That’s a smart substitution! I never thought about using veggie broth. I’m definitely gonna try that next time!
So easy to make! I love stuffing and this one was super tasty and buttery.
Ewwww, my kids wouldn’t eat it. They said it tastes weird with the leeks.
Maybe they just don’t like veggies? This stuffing sounds yummy! My kids gobble it up every time!
I don’t understand how leeks can taste weird. They’re just mild and soft when cooked. Maybe try a different recipe next time?
5 stars! I used sourdough bread instead of French and it added a nice tang. Yummy!
5 stars? I dunno, that bread sounds too chewy for me. How it taste with sourdough?
I never thought to use sourdough! That sounds like a great idea. Might try it next time. Thanks!
Meh, it was alright. I think it needed something more. Maybe some nuts or dried fruit?