Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting addition to your holiday table, look no further than Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This stuffing has been a cherished part of our family gatherings for as long as I can remember. It’s the perfect blend of chewy and moist textures, with a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that everyone loves. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will bring warmth and joy to your table.

What makes this stuffing recipe truly special is its versatility. You can whip it up from scratch or take some shortcuts when you’re pressed for time. No matter how you make it, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will rave about this stuffing! It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits well with any meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it the day before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy holiday cooking!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and fresh vegetables creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Simple ingredients: With just a few wholesome items, you can create something truly special without breaking the bank.
• Flexible recipe: Easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences—this stuffing can be uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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
• 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffing recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or make use of what you have at home.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Go veggie: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version that everyone will enjoy.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or dill to give your stuffing a unique twist.
• Fruity addition: Add diced apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your bread into cubes and letting them dry out. This step is crucial because stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in that perfect chewy texture we all adore.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This process enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to our stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a big mixing bowl, combine your dry bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently; we want those lovely flavors to meld without crushing the bread.

Step 4: Add Moisture

Pour in the chicken broth gradually while mixing until everything is moistened but not soggy. Then add in the eggs—this helps bind everything together and gives our stuffing that delightful texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the 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 to achieve that golden-brown top we all love!

Now you’re ready to serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—it’s truly a labor of love that brings everyone together around the table.

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can feel daunting, but with a few simple tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a cherished family favorite.

• Use stale bread cubes – Stale bread absorbs the broth better, resulting in a stuffing that’s perfectly moist without being soggy. If your bread is fresh, simply let it sit out overnight or toast it lightly before using.
• Customize your herbs – Feel free to adjust the herbs to suit your taste! Adding herbs like rosemary or adding more thyme can give your stuffing a unique flavor profile that reflects your family’s preferences.
• Don’t skip the broth – The chicken broth is essential for infusing moisture and flavor into the stuffing. Make sure to use a good-quality broth for the best results; homemade is always ideal!
• Mix in some veggies – Enhance texture and nutrition by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or mushrooms. This adds depth of flavor and makes the stuffing even more satisfying.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up and makes serving easier. Plus, it gives the flavors time to meld!

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

When it comes to presenting this delightful stuffing, there are plenty of creative ways to serve it that will make your Thanksgiving table shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a fresh touch and brightens up the dish visually.
• Sautéed onions and celery – Topping your stuffing with some lightly sautéed vegetables can enhance both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy little gems add a wonderful contrast in texture and their slightly bitter flavor balances well with the savory stuffing.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A classic comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with stuffing and provide an extra layer of heartiness to your meal.
• Green Bean Casserole – This dish brings an element of creaminess and crunch, making it a perfect complement to our stuffing’s rich flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the stuffing, providing a refreshing counterbalance that elevates each bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only create Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe but also craft an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast! Enjoy every moment spent around the table with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing is not only a delightful side dish but also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

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! If you’re looking to avoid eggs, you can substitute them with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the ingredients together.

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

You can use any type of bread for this recipe. A mix of white, whole grain, or even cornbread works wonderfully. Just ensure that it’s dried out enough to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.

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

To add extra flavor, consider including sautéed mushrooms, diced apples, or nuts like pecans or walnuts. Fresh herbs such as rosemary or additional spices can also elevate the taste!

Can I prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe the night before?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table and sharing delicious food with loved ones, and this stuffing recipe holds a special place in many hearts—just like Grandma would make! I hope you enjoy making this comforting dish as much as I do. It’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Happy cooking!