Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that brings back warm memories and fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of the holidays, then you’ve landed in the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family classic that has been passed down through generations. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; this stuffing is perfect for family gatherings or even cozy weeknight dinners when you’re craving something comforting.

What makes this stuffing so special? It’s all about the balance—chewy bread cubes combined with savory herbs and buttery goodness create a dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to put together, making it a go-to recipe that never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you can whip this up even on busy days.
• Family Favorite: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy this comforting dish, making it perfect for any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and just bake before serving—easy peasy!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and bread creates a wonderfully rich flavor that enhances any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Not just for Thanksgiving—enjoy this stuffing anytime you want a taste of home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe!

For the Stuffing

• 16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups onion (1/2 diced)
• 2 cups celery (1/2 diced)
• 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh chopped or dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon sage (fresh chopped or dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste or what you have in your kitchen.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Mix in fruits: Dried cranberries or apples can add a lovely sweetness that balances the savory notes.
• Herb swap: Use your favorite fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes; everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by preparing your bread cubes. If you’re using fresh bread, let them sit out overnight to dry out slightly. This step helps absorb all those delicious flavors during cooking without getting soggy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, sautéing until they become tender and fragrant. This process not only softens their texture but also enhances their natural sweetness—trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 3: Mix in Seasonings

Once your vegetables are ready, stir in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Allow these flavors to mingle together for a minute or two before adding them to your bowl of bread cubes. This allows the spices to bloom and infuse their essence into the mix.

Step 4: Combine with Broth and Eggs

Pour in the chicken broth and crack in the eggs into your bowl of seasoned bread cubes. Gently mix everything together until all the bread is moistened. The eggs help bind everything together while adding richness—don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Bake Your Stuffing

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown on top. This final baking ensures every bite is perfectly crispy on top yet soft inside.

Enjoy serving Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as a side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Creating a perfect Thanksgiving stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

• Choose the right bread: Using a combination of breads like sourdough and whole wheat will give your stuffing a unique texture and flavor. The diverse crumbs absorb the broth beautifully while maintaining that lovely chewiness.

• Sauté your veggies: Taking the time to sauté the onion and celery in butter before adding them to the bread cubes enhances their flavors. This step also adds a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

• Let it sit: After mixing your stuffing ingredients, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the bread to absorb the flavors and moisture more thoroughly, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

• Don’t overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together rather than stirring vigorously. This prevents your stuffing from becoming too dense and helps maintain that moist, fluffy texture we all love.

• Adjust for taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your preference! If you enjoy a bolder flavor, add more herbs or spices, or even toss in some dried fruit or nuts for an extra twist.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is just as important as making it! Presentation adds a special touch to this comforting dish, making it feel even more festive on your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only adds color but also brings a fresh flavor that complements the rich stuffing.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on top adds a sweet-tart contrast that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These slightly bitter sprouts caramelize beautifully when roasted and pair excellently with the savory notes of the stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: The creaminess of this classic dish balances out the texture of the stuffing while adding an extra layer of comfort food nostalgia.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving; their smoothness pairs perfectly with the hearty stuffing.
• Glazed carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a lovely pop of color and flavor on your plate, offering a nice contrast to the savory stuffing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing will surely be the star of your holiday meal! Enjoy every delicious bite surrounded by loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy all the delicious flavors of the holiday while making your life easier. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, ensuring your Thanksgiving meal is stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the stuffing cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Prepare the stuffing as directed but do not bake it.
• Allow it to cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish if not already in one.
• Add a little chicken broth or water to moisten it, if needed.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe.

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan option.

How do I adjust Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe for a smaller group?

You can easily halve the ingredients. This will still yield enough stuffing for about 7-8 servings, perfect for smaller gatherings!

What bread works best in Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Sturdy breads like sourdough or whole grain work wonderfully as they hold their shape and absorb flavors well.

Can I add more vegetables to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to chop up additional vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a cherished tradition that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every bite and make unforgettable memories this holiday season. Happy cooking!