Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish this holiday season, look no further than Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This classic stuffing has been a cherished family tradition, bringing warmth and joy to our Thanksgiving table for generations. The delightful combination of chewy bread, savory herbs, and rich broth makes it a dish that’s perfect not just for Thanksgiving but also for busy weeknights or any family gathering.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can whip it up from scratch or take some shortcuts if you’re pressed for time. Either way, you’ll end up with a delicious stuffing that everyone will rave about!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: The incredible flavors make it a hit among kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or spices to make it uniquely yours.
• Comfort Food: It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

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 Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is its adaptability! You can easily make it your own with a few tweaks:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes to suit dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
• Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of sage or thyme, try using rosemary or oregano instead.
• Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: For added texture and sweetness, consider throwing in some chopped walnuts or raisins.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your bread into cubes. Let them sit out overnight to dry out a bit; this helps them soak up all that delicious broth later on. If you’re short on time, you can toast them lightly in the oven instead.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking until they are soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chicken broth until everything is well coated. The mixture should be moist but not soggy; adjust with more broth if necessary.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Crack the eggs into the bowl and mix thoroughly again. This helps bind everything together so your stuffing holds its shape while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown on top. This crispy crust adds such a lovely texture!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once done baking, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Gather around the table with family and friends as you dig into this delightful stuffing that’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Creating the perfect stuffing takes a little practice, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious holiday dish that everyone will love!

• Use day-old bread: This helps prevent mushy stuffing. Stale bread absorbs moisture without becoming overly soggy, allowing for that delightful chewy texture.

• Sauté the vegetables: Cooking the onions and celery in butter before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavors. This step brings out natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Generously season your stuffing to elevate its flavor. The right balance of herbs and spices is crucial in making each bite memorable.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow your stuffing to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes it easier to serve.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or nuts such as walnuts for extra texture and flavor. These additions can elevate your stuffing from classic to extraordinary.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your stuffing can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to ensure it shines on your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: Scattered on top, these give a mild onion flavor that complements the savory notes in the stuffing.
• Dried cranberries: Adding a few for garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully with savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their crispy edges and tender insides offer a delightful textural contrast to the soft stuffing while bringing a slight bitterness that balances out the meal.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and rich, these potatoes are a classic companion that soaks up gravy beautifully, making them perfect alongside your flavorful stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: This comforting dish provides crunch with its crispy topping and is sure to be a crowd favorite at any Thanksgiving gathering.
• Cranberry sauce: The sweet-tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of stuffing, providing a refreshing burst of flavor that ties everything together.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast centered around Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. Enjoy every moment spent with loved ones around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving stuffing is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Grandma’s recipe without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and save any leftovers for another day.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container.
• Label the container with the date and contents.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 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 gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread cubes instead of regular bread. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I customize Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms or carrots, or mix in dried fruits like cranberries for a sweet twist!

Is Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, and it will still be delicious and meet vegetarian dietary preferences.

Can I prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe a day in advance?

Yes! You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a way to bring warmth and comfort to your holiday table. It’s special because it’s filled with love, tradition, and unforgettable flavors that remind us of family gatherings. I hope you enjoy making this stuffing as much as my family does! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or tweaks—it’s always wonderful to hear how others celebrate these cherished recipes. Happy cooking!