Stuffing is one of the most talked-about dishes on the Thanksgiving table, and for good reason, it’s where all the savory, herby, buttery flavors of the holiday come together in one bite. While turkey may get the spotlight, stuffing brings warmth and depth to the meal, soaking up gravy, balancing out the sides, and offering endless room for personal twists. Some keep it traditional with sage, sausage, or cornbread, while others build it into casseroles or add bold ingredients like bacon, green beans, cranberries, or even whiskey. It can be a side, a main, or a smart way to use leftovers in the days after the big feast. This list brings together hearty casseroles, one-pan meals, and flavorful variations that prove stuffing doesn’t need to stay in the background, it can hold its own and then some. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for something to change up the usual routine, these recipes will bring rich flavor and comfort to your Thanksgiving table.
Apple Sausage Stuffing
Sweet apples and savory sausage come together in this crowd-pleasing version of classic stuffing. The apple adds a juicy bite that cuts through the richness, while the sausage brings depth and spice. Fresh herbs tie everything together. It’s a balance of sweet and savory that feels just right for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Apple Sausage Stuffing
Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole
Thick pork chops bake on top of seasoned stuffing, letting the juices soak down into the bread layer. It’s hearty, flavorful, and saves time by turning a side into the whole meal. The top stays crisp while the bottom gets rich and soft. Great for a Thanksgiving week dinner when you want comfort without the full spread.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops and Stuffing Casserole
Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
This twist folds crisp green beans into stuffing for added texture and color. It combines two classic sides into one easy-to-serve dish. The bread soaks up all the flavor while the beans bring freshness and snap. A clever addition to a Thanksgiving table that needs something familiar but new.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Stuffing Casserole
Sage and Bacon Stuffing
Crispy bacon adds smoky richness to this sage-forward stuffing. The fat from the bacon coats the bread and herbs, making each bite deeply savory. It’s salty, aromatic, and perfect with gravy. A bold side dish that holds its own among bigger flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sage and Bacon Stuffing
Vegan Stuffing
This stuffing skips the meat and dairy but still brings in plenty of flavor from herbs, broth, and sautéed vegetables. The texture stays fluffy and moist without being heavy. It’s a great side that fits in easily with the rest of the meal. No one misses the butter or meat when the seasoning is this good.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing
4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing
Chicken breasts cook down over boxed stuffing and broth in this no-fuss recipe. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is tender, flavorful, and ready to serve. It’s not fancy, but it’s cozy and filling. A great warm-up meal in the days leading to Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: 4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken with Stuffing
Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing
Crumbly cornbread pairs with roasted chestnuts for a sweet and nutty twist on classic stuffing. The chestnuts bring texture and richness, while the cornbread gives it a softer, slightly sweet base. Herbs round it out with a savory finish. It’s a Southern-style stuffing with extra holiday flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Chestnut Stuffing
Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole layers shredded chicken with stuffing and a creamy sauce for a comforting, one-pan dish. It’s soft, rich, and topped with just enough crispiness. Great for using up Thanksgiving leftovers, or standing in for the full meal. It hits that post-holiday craving perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Garlic and Herb Stuffing
A generous amount of garlic and fresh herbs make this stuffing bold without being overpowering. The flavor is clean and simple, letting the herbs shine. The bread soaks up all the good stuff and bakes to a perfect golden top. A solid side that fits right in on any Thanksgiving plate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic and Herb Stuffing
Almond, Cranberry and Wweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
This casserole combines toasted almonds, tart cranberries, and chunks of roasted sweet potato with seasoned bread. The mix of textures and flavors is both colorful and satisfying. It’s sweet, savory, and full of fall character. A standout side for anyone looking to try something different.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry and Wweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
Squash Casserole with Stuffing
Sliced squash is baked with a savory stuffing topping, making it both light and filling. The bread adds crunch while the squash stays soft and sweet underneath. It’s an easy way to bring vegetables to the Thanksgiving table. A gentle, comforting side dish with a golden finish.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing
Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing
This stuffing packs in bold flavor with sausage, a splash of whiskey, and tart cranberries, all crisped up in the air fryer. The outside gets golden and crisp, while the inside stays soft and rich. It’s fast, flavorful, and a little bit fancy. A modern twist that still feels right at home with Thanksgiving classics.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage and Cranberry Stuffing
