Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish to grace your holiday table, look no further than this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This cherished family recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together. The warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked stuffing fills the house with nostalgia and love, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or even those cozy weeknight dinners.

What makes this stuffing so special? It’s not just about the delightful combination of bread cubes, sautéed veggies, and fragrant herbs; it’s about the memories and warmth it brings to every meal. Plus, it’s easy enough for anyone to whip up, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this stuffing ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors that remind them of home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Flavor: This recipe is a fantastic base that can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create a stuffing that’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Stuffing

• Bread (sourdough or French): 10 cups cubed
• Onion: 1 large, finely diced
• Celery: 2 cups, finely chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
• Fresh herbs: 2 tbsp sage, 2 tbsp thyme, 1 tbsp rosemary (all finely chopped)
• Low-sodium broth: 4 cups (chicken or vegetable)
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted
• Salt and pepper: To taste

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 250 calories, Carbs: 35g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffing is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have or what your family enjoys. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Keep it hearty: Mix in cooked mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the herbs.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano to put your own twist on it.
• Vegetable boost: Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This makes cooking much easier! Cube your bread into bite-sized pieces and let them sit out for a bit; stale bread works best as it absorbs all those delicious flavors without getting mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of your unsalted butter. Add in the diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté until they become tender and fragrant—about five minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing releases their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

In a large bowl, mix your sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread. Then add in your fresh herbs along with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in the low-sodium broth gradually while mixing; you want everything coated but not soggy.

Step 4: Bake Your Stuffing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish. Drizzle remaining melted butter over the top for extra crispiness. Bake for about 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or as part of a larger feast. Enjoy every bite of this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe—it’s sure to become a staple at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making the perfect stuffing can be a delightful experience when you keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use stale bread: Letting your bread cubes sit out for a day or two allows them to dry out, which helps them absorb the flavorful broth without becoming mushy.

• Sauté the vegetables: Cooking the onions and celery before adding them to the stuffing enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor, ensuring a more satisfying bite.

• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite fresh herbs! Adding parsley or marjoram can brighten up the dish and give it your own unique twist.

• Adjust the broth: If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute some vegetable broth with low-sodium chicken broth. This will add complexity while keeping it light and delicious.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps set the flavors and makes serving much easier.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this beloved dish! Here are some ideas on how to make your stuffing shine on the holiday table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped parsley or extra sage leaves on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on each plate adds a delightful tartness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoned with salt, these sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, providing a sweet counterpart to your stuffing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide comfort and pair perfectly with stuffing’s texture.
• Green bean casserole: A classic side that combines crunchy green beans with creamy mushroom sauce topped with crispy onions—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Maple-glazed carrots: These sweet and tender carrots bring vibrant color to your plate while their natural sweetness balances well against savory dishes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable holiday experience centered around Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every moment spent together at the table this season.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on the big day. Make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy the flavors without any hassle!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool down before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove all excess air.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Got questions about this scrumptious stuffing? We’ve got answers!

Can I make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free bread as a substitute for regular bread, and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.

How can I enhance the flavor of Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, dried cranberries, or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust your seasonings accordingly!

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in my stuffing?

Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available. Generally, use one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What type of broth is best for stuffing?

You can use either low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth depending on your dietary preferences. Both options will add great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this delightful culinary journey with my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! This dish is not just food but a warm embrace from family traditions that brings everyone around the table together. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Happy cooking, and may your holiday be filled with love, laughter, and deliciousness!