Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug on Thanksgiving, let me introduce you to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This dish is truly a family favorite, passed down through generations with love. It’s not just for the holidays; it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or even busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious.

What makes this stuffing special? It’s the blend of simple ingredients that create a rich, savory flavor while being soft and chewy at the same time. You can make it entirely from scratch or take a few shortcuts if you’re in a pinch. Either way, your taste buds will be thanking you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this stuffing is simple enough for anyone to master.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a good stuffing! It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and just pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat—stress-free!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and veggies creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
• 1/2 cup butter

For the Flavor

• 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

To Bind It All Together

• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

Variations

What I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Mix in Fruits: Dried cranberries or apples can add a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory flavors.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a unique twist.
• Go Veggie: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a completely plant-based option.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your bread into cubes and letting them dry out overnight. This step is crucial as it helps the bread absorb all those delicious flavors without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery. Sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Eggs

Pour in the chicken broth gradually while mixing. Then add in the eggs one at a time, mixing until everything is well combined. The eggs help bind everything together so your stuffing holds its shape.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for another 30 minutes until golden brown on top. This step ensures that your stuffing is both moist inside and crispy on top—just how we love it!

Now you’re ready to enjoy Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Serve it warm alongside your favorite dishes, and watch everyone go back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Day-Old Bread: This helps the bread cubes absorb more moisture without becoming mushy. Fresh bread can make the stuffing too soggy, so let it dry out or toast lightly before use.

• Sauté Your Vegetables: Cooking the onion and celery in butter before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavors and ensures they’re perfectly tender. This step adds depth to your stuffing.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to flavor. Don’t hesitate to tweak the herbs and spices based on what you enjoy most or what you have on hand for a personalized touch.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your stuffing to sit for about 10–15 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting time makes for a tastier dish that everyone will love.

• Use Broth Instead of Water: For added richness, opt for chicken broth instead of water when moistening your stuffing. This small change can significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your Thanksgiving stuffing beautifully can make all the difference at your family gathering! Here are some simple yet effective ideas for serving this classic dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the stuffing nicely.
• Cranberry Sauce: A side of cranberry sauce not only looks appealing but also offers a sweet-tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes bring color and nutrition to your table while enhancing the festive spirit.

• Green Bean Casserole: Creamy and comforting, this classic dish is a great balance to the stuffing’s texture, making every bite feel special.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving. They create a perfect base for gravy and pair beautifully with the stuffing.

• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm bowl of butternut squash soup serves as an inviting starter that sets the tone for your hearty Thanksgiving meal.

With these serving suggestions, you can create an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy celebrating this wonderful holiday surrounded by loved ones and delicious food.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of bread for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure that it’s dried out enough to absorb the flavors.

How do I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?

You can easily make this stuffing vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. It will still be packed with flavor!

Can I add other ingredients to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Feel free to customize your stuffing! You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is all about family and togetherness, and this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe embodies those values perfectly. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Share it with your loved ones and create beautiful memories together. Happy cooking!