Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing

No Thanksgiving table feels complete without a warm, comforting dish of stuffing—and this Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing brings all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of the holiday in a plant-based way that everyone at the table will love. Made with rustic sourdough bread, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables, this vegan stuffing is both hearty and wholesome, proving that traditional favorites can easily be reimagined for a modern, mindful feast.

At its heart, this recipe celebrates the essence of vegan Thanksgiving cooking—simple, seasonal ingredients that come together to create something deeply flavorful and satisfying. Fresh sage, thyme, and parsley infuse the dish with those familiar earthy notes that evoke crisp autumn days, while onions, celery, and garlic build a fragrant base. The optional diced apple adds a delicate touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the herbs and bread, giving this stuffing a subtle depth that feels both comforting and fresh.

Unlike classic versions that rely on butter and eggs, this recipe uses olive oil or vegan butter and an optional flaxseed mixture to bind everything together naturally. The result is a stuffing that’s light yet rich, crisp on top, and soft and savory underneath—a texture and flavor combination that makes it a standout among Thanksgiving side dishes.

Whether you’re hosting a fully plant-based Thanksgiving or simply looking for a delicious vegan side to add to your holiday spread, this stuffing fits beautifully alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a lentil loaf. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, no matter their dietary preferences—proving that plant-based cooking can be just as indulgent, aromatic, and heartwarming as the classics.

Serve it fresh from the oven with a sprinkle of parsley, and let this vegan stuffing be the star of your Thanksgiving table.

Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing (8-10 servings)

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 10 cups) rustic sourdough or country bread, cubed and dried*

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 3 ribs celery, diced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 apple, peeled and diced (optional but delicious)

• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, more to taste

• Fresh cracked black pepper

• 2 1/2 to 3 cups vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 5 tablespoons water (flax egg, optional for binding)

• Olive oil spray or more vegan butter, for baking

*To dry your bread: Cube it and leave out overnight or toast in a 300°F oven for 10–15 min.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13" baking dish.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery for 8–10 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Add garlic, apple (if using), sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes more.

4. In a large bowl, toss dried bread cubes with the sautéed veggie mixture and chopped parsley.

5. Whisk the flaxseed with water and let sit 5 minutes. Add to the bowl.

6. Slowly pour in the broth, stirring to evenly moisten—start with 2 1/2 cups and add more if needed.

7. Transfer mixture to the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 20 more minutes until golden and crisp on top.

8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

This Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing is proof that Thanksgiving classics can be every bit as flavorful—if not more—when made plant-based. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of crispy golden edges and tender, herby center, filled with the comforting aromas of sage, thyme, and roasted vegetables. It’s a dish that feels nostalgic yet fresh, bringing together tradition and mindful eating in one beautiful serving.

Whether you’re hosting a full vegan Thanksgiving feast or simply adding a plant-based side to your spread, this stuffing pairs seamlessly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a seasonal salad. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare ahead and reheat, making holiday cooking stress-free and delicious.

Warm, aromatic, and full of cozy fall flavor, this vegan stuffing is the kind of side dish that invites everyone back for seconds—proof that compassion and comfort belong at every Thanksgiving table.