Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting addition to your holiday table, look no further than this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of the love and warmth that fills our home during Thanksgiving. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a cherished memory on a plate. Perfect for family gatherings or even busy weeknights when you want something special, this stuffing is sure to bring everyone together.

What makes this stuffing so special? It’s all in the blend of tender bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fragrant herbs that create a delightful harmony of flavors. Whether served alongside turkey or as a stand-alone dish, it always receives rave reviews from my family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious stuffing without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a good stuffing! It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with many dishes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve, making your holiday cooking less stressful.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and sautéed veggies creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it not only at Thanksgiving but also for any occasion that calls for comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need for this flavorful stuffing!

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 parts about this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix in different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of texture.
• Incorporate fruit: Dried cranberries or apples can add a sweet touch that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the bread with gluten-free bread options to make this recipe friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spice it up: Add some cooked sausage or other spices if you want to kick things up a notch!

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your sourdough or French bread. Allow it to sit out for a few hours or overnight if possible. This helps the bread become slightly stale, which is perfect for absorbing all those wonderful flavors during baking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, stirring occasionally until they are soft and fragrant—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing these veggies brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Add in your finely chopped fresh herbs, then pour in the low-sodium broth. Gently mix everything together until all the bread cubes are evenly moistened. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 4: Bake Your Stuffing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crispiness on top.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked, let your stuffing cool for a few minutes before serving. This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Pair it with your favorite holiday dishes or savor it on its own. Either way, it’s guaranteed to fill your home with love and warmth during those special gatherings!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your dish is a crowd-pleaser!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs moisture better without getting mushy. This results in a perfect texture for your stuffing, allowing it to be crispy on the outside while remaining moist inside.
• Sauté Your Vegetables: Sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the mix enhances their flavor and brings out their natural sweetness. This step creates a rich base that adds depth to your stuffing.
• Experiment with Herbs: While sage, thyme, and rosemary are traditional, feel free to get creative! Adding fresh parsley or even some dried cranberry can introduce new flavors that delight the palate.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your stuffing to rest for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes serving easier as it firms up slightly.
• Customize Your Broth: Choose a flavorful broth that suits your taste preference. Using vegetable broth can add a subtle richness without overpowering the other flavors in the dish.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presentation is key when serving this classic dish. Here are some ideas to make your stuffing shine on the holiday table!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
• Cranberry Relish: A dollop of cranberry relish on top brings a sweet-tart contrast that brightens each bite and complements the stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash roasted with olive oil and herbs is visually stunning and enhances the meal’s comfort factor.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and crispy onion topping, providing a comforting crunch that pairs perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit at Thanksgiving. They provide a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the stuffing’s heartiness.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with crunchy pecans or marshmallows, this sweet side adds a delightful sweetness that balances out savory dishes on your holiday table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will surely be the star of your feast! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering. You can prepare it in advance and store it properly to savor every last bite.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the stuffing cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

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

Absolutely! While sourdough or French bread works well, you can also use whole grain or gluten-free bread for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure it’s stale or dried out for the best results.

How can I make this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe vegan?

To make this stuffing vegan, simply substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be delicious!

Can I add other ingredients to my stuffing?

Yes! Feel free to customize your stuffing by adding cooked vegetables like mushrooms or carrots, dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins, or nuts for added crunch.

How long should I bake my Thanksgiving stuffing?

Bake your stuffing uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top and heated through. The timing may vary based on how moist your mixture is.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a heartwarming dish like this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. It’s not just a side; it’s a cherished tradition that brings comfort and joy to any holiday table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as my family does. May it fill your home with warmth and wonderful aromas! Happy cooking!