Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that warms your heart and fills your home with the sweet aroma of Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not just any stuffing; it’s a cherished family tradition. Each bite is a delightful blend of chewy and moist textures, perfectly balanced with sweet and savory flavors. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this stuffing makes every meal feel special.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up from scratch or take some shortcuts if time is tight. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to impress your family without spending all day in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner cooks will shine in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly appeal: This stuffing is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and save time on the big day.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! They are easy to find and many of them may already be in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe:

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 ½ 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 can be! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Incorporate fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can bring a delightful sweetness to your stuffing.
• Go veggie: Substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a little heat!

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes out on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are lightly golden and dry. This step is essential as it helps prevent soggy stuffing, ensuring each bite has that wonderful chewy texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, cooking them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables not only enhances their natural sweetness but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes everyone eager for dinner!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together so that all the bread cubes are coated with those delicious flavors. This step ensures that every bite of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing bursts with taste!

Step 4: Add Liquid and Eggs

Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring gently. Then beat the eggs in a separate bowl and fold them into the mixture. The eggs help bind everything together while keeping it moist during baking.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. This final baking step creates that lovely crust everyone loves while keeping the inside fluffy!

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once baked to perfection, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor before serving. Now you’re ready to enjoy Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing with family and friends—it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings too!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Preparing a classic stuffing can be an enjoyable experience, and with a few expert tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use stale bread: Starting with stale bread cubes enhances the texture of the stuffing, allowing it to absorb the broth without becoming mushy.
• Sauté your veggies: Taking the time to sauté onions and celery brings out their flavors, adding depth and richness to your stuffing.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid a dense stuffing. This keeps it light and fluffy, ensuring every bite is delightful.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! Everyone has different preferences, so feel free to tweak the herbs and spices according to your family’s taste.
• Let it rest: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving this delightful stuffing is just as important as preparing it. A warm, fragrant bowl of stuffing not only complements your main dishes but also adds a cozy touch to your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with its fresh flavor.
• Cranberry sauce: A small side of cranberry sauce provides a sweet contrast that enhances the savory notes of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of stuffing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the richness of stuffing perfectly, creating a comforting plate.
• Green bean casserole: The creamy and crunchy elements in this dish provide a great balance alongside your stuffing, making for an appealing presentation.
• Sweet potato casserole: With its natural sweetness and fluffy texture, sweet potato casserole offers another layer of comfort food goodness that harmonizes beautifully with savory dishes.

By incorporating these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing but an unforgettable dining experience for everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday. You can prepare it in advance, saving time on the big day while ensuring that you have a delicious side dish ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish, add a bit of broth if it seems dry, and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe that might help you as you prepare this classic dish.

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it on Thanksgiving Day.

What type of bread is best for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

A mix of breads works well! Opt for sturdy loaves like sourdough, whole wheat, or French bread for a great texture and flavor.

How do I ensure my Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is moist?

To keep your stuffing moist, make sure not to overbake it. Adding a little extra broth while reheating can also help maintain moisture.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stuffing with nuts, dried fruits, or vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is all about family traditions and sharing good food, and this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe captures that spirit beautifully. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that brings comfort and joy to any holiday table. I hope you enjoy crafting this lovely recipe as much as my family does! Happy cooking and happy Thanksgiving!