The holiday season is here, so it’s time to think about one of the most beloved side dishes: stuffing. Whether you plan to make it from scratch or opt for a premade mix, stuffing is bound to be on your menu.
But with so many options, which store-bought stuffing mix stands out?
To find out, I tested five popular stuffing mixes nationwide, focusing only on “herb” versions (no cornbread mixes) to keep things fair. Here’s what I discovered, including my top pick and tips for enhancing any store-bought stuffing mix.
How I Chose and Tested the Stuffing Mixes
To keep the test fair, I picked herb-flavored stuffing mixes widely available across the U.S., steering clear of any cornbread-based varieties.
Each mix was prepared following the exact package instructions, and if additional ingredients like butter were required, I used the same brand throughout.
Each stuffing mix was portioned into individual bowls for a blind taste test. I judged each based on flavor, texture, and overall appearance. Here’s how each mix ranked, from my least favorite to the one I’ll buy again.
The Best Store-Bought Stuffing Mixes, from Worst to Best
5th Place: Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Stuffing Mix
Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Stuffing Mix may be a good option for those with dietary restrictions, but it didn’t win me over. The texture was too soft—almost mushy—and the flavor was underwhelming. It tasted odd, with no unmistakable herb flavor to enjoy.
Trader Joe’s has an excellent reputation, so I’d still consider trying their cornbread version if I had to choose a gluten-free option, but this particular mix was disappointing.
4th Place: Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix
Stove Top is a classic that many of us grew up with. It looked great on the plate and had a light, fluffy texture without being too mushy. While the flavor was decent, the herbs were too subtle, perhaps hidden under the higher sodium content (500 mg per half-cup serving). Overall, it’s a solid choice, but it needs to be measured up to the top choices on this list.
3rd Place: Whole Foods 365 Organic Traditional Stuffing Mix
Whole Foods’ 365 Organic Traditional Stuffing Mix won no points for looks. Its shredded texture could have been more visually appealing.
However, the texture could have been more pleasant, not too soft or dry. Taste-wise, it could use some extra seasoning to shine as a stand-alone dish, but with a bit of doctoring—like adding sautéed onions, garlic, and celery—it could definitely work as part of a larger meal.
2nd Place: Brownberry Herb Seasoned Cubed Stuffing
Brownberry’s Herb Seasoned Cubed Stuffing barely missed the top spot. Its bite-sized bread cubes soaked broth and butter beautifully while maintaining their shape and texture.
The flavors of celery and onion made it feel like a homemade dish, but it was a little salty. That said, if you’re looking for an easy-to-make stuffing mix almost as good as homemade, this one is an excellent option.
1st Place: Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Cubed Stuffing
Pepperidge Farm’s Herb Seasoned Cubed Stuffing was the clear winner in this taste test. It had perfect scores in texture, flavor, and appearance.
The bread cubes held up perfectly when mixed with broth, staying fluffy without turning mushy. Thanks to a balanced herb blend, this mix packed a punch of flavor without being overly salty. With sautéed onions, celery, and a splash of chicken broth, this mix delivers everything you want in a holiday stuffing.
It’s the kind of stuffing that feels special enough for Thanksgiving but easy enough for a cozy weeknight meal.
How to Upgrade Store-Bought Stuffing Mixes for Extra Flavor
Even the best store-bought stuffing can benefit from a few easy enhancements. Here’s how to take your stuffing mix to the next level:
Cook It in Stock Instead of Water
Most stuffing mix packages recommend adding water for moisture, but swapping some or all of the water with stock (chicken, turkey, or vegetable) will give your stuffing a richer, savory taste. Use a mix of half water and half stock for the best results.
Add Sautéed Vegetables for Flavor and Texture
To add flavor and texture, sauté onions, celery, and any other veggies you love (like mushrooms or carrots) in butter before mixing them into the stuffing. This step enhances the taste and gives the stuffing a homemade feel.
Mix in Protein for a Heartier Dish
If you want to make the stuffing mix a main event, consider adding cooked sweet Italian sausage, plant-based sausage, or chopped bacon. The additional protein brings a satisfying heartiness to the stuffing that pairs well with the traditional herb flavors.
Bake It for Extra Crispiness
Bake your stuffing in the oven rather than cooking it all on the stovetop for a delicious, crispy texture. Spread the stuffing in a baking dish and bake it until the top is golden and crisp. You can also use it to stuff a turkey for an even more flavorful experience.
Add Fresh Herbs
A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley, sage, rosemary, or thyme, will elevate the stuffing’s taste and appearance. Add the herbs right before serving for a pop of freshness that balances out the dish’s richness.
Conclusion
While there are plenty of stuffing mixes to choose from, Pepperidge Farm’s Herb Seasoned Cubed Stuffing is the best option for flavor, texture, and appearance.
If you want to elevate the stuffing further, try adding stock, fresh herbs, or your favorite vegetables to make it truly unforgettable. Whether for Thanksgiving or a simple weeknight meal, the proper stuffing can bring warmth and comfort to your table.
FAQs
Can I make a stuffing mix without butter?
Substitute butter with olive oil, plant-based margarine, or broth for a lower-fat option. The flavor will change slightly, but these alternatives can still make a delicious stuffing.
How do I store leftover stuffing?
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, thaw it, and reheat it in the oven.
How do I prevent stuffing from getting too mushy?
To avoid mushy stuffing, add less liquid initially, then gradually increase if needed. Baking the stuffing uncovered in the oven also helps keep the texture firm and prevents excess moisture.
Can I add other ingredients to a store-bought stuffing mix?
Absolutely! Sautéed vegetables, cooked sausage, nuts, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs are great additions to store-bought stuffing, adding texture and flavor.
Is it safe to use stuffing inside a turkey?
Yes, but be sure the stuffing reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat. Cooking stuffing separately in a baking dish can also be safer and quicker.
READ MORE: Thanksgiving Essentials from Trader Joe’s 7 Great Products