Potato Stuffing

Potato stuffing is what happens when you realize classic bread stuffing is fine, but adding mashed potatoes would make it even better. In our version, buttery sauteed onions and celery get folded into fluffy mashed potatoes along with torn pieces of white bread that drink up all the flavor. The whole thing bakes until the top turns golden and slightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and creamy.

This easy, festive side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas tastes rich and indulgent. It has enough texture from the vegetables and bread to keep things interesting, yet it’s smooth enough from the potatoes to feel like a warm blanket made of carbs. Serve it next to roast chicken or pork chops and watch it disappear faster than you can say “I should have doubled the recipe.”

Ingredients for Potato Stuffing

• Onion: The onion provides a savory, aromatic base that infuses the stuffing with depth and sweetness as it caramelizes.
• Celery: Crisp celery ribs add a subtle vegetal flavor and a pleasant texture contrast to the creamy potatoes, brightening the overall dish.
• Butter: This rich fat carries flavor throughout the stuffing and helps brown the vegetables, creating a golden, slightly crispy top during baking.
• White bread: Torn bread pieces absorb moisture and add structure to the stuffing, preventing it from becoming too dense while contributing a tender, pillowy texture.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes form the hearty foundation of this stuffing, binding all the ingredients together. Garlic and herb mashed potatoes would be delicious repurposed in this stuffing, but any leftover mashed potatoes you have will do the trick.
• Fresh parsley: Minced parsley brings a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color that balances the richness of the butter and potatoes.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the vegetables and mix the stuffing

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large saucepan, saute the onion and celery in butter until they’re tender.

Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the bread, mashed potatoes, parsley, salt and pepper.

Spoon the stuffing into a greased 1-quart casserole dish.

Step 2: Bake the stuffing

Bake the stuffing, uncovered, until the top is lightly browned, 45 minutes.

Potato Stuffing Variations

• Add more herbs: Stir in fresh thyme, sage or rosemary along with the parsley for a more complex, aromatic flavor profile that echoes traditional holiday stuffing.
• Mix in cheese: Fold shredded cheddar, Gruyere or Parmesan into the potato mixture before baking it for a rich, tangy twist that gives the stuffing a golden, bubbly top.
• Incorporate bacon: Crisp up chopped bacon and fold it into the stuffing along with a tablespoon of the rendered fat for a smoky variation.
• Add garlic: Saute minced garlic along with the onion and celery to infuse the stuffing with a robust, aromatic depth.
• Use a different bread: Substitute sourdough, whole wheat or cornbread for the white bread to add distinctive flavor and heartiness to the dish.

How to Store Potato Stuffing

Transfer any leftover potato stuffing to an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. Store it in the refrigerator, where the butter and potatoes will keep the stuffing moist and flavorful. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the stuffing from drying out or absorbing other food odors.

How long does potato stuffing last?

When properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, potato stuffing will stay fresh for three to four days. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of baking to ensure food safety. If you notice any off smells or signs of spoilage, discard the stuffing immediately.

How do you reheat potato stuffing?

The best way to reheat potato stuffing is in the oven at 350 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of broth before reheating.

Can you freeze potato stuffing?

Yes, you can freeze potato stuffing for up to three months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can alternatively wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw the stuffing overnight in the fridge before warming it through in the oven.

Potato Stuffing Tips

What can you serve with potato stuffing?

Potato stuffing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken or pork as part of a holiday feast or Sunday dinner. It also complements glazed ham, meatloaf or beef roast for a comforting weeknight meal. For a complete plate, serve it alongside green beans, cranberry sauce or a fresh salad.