Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting addition to your Thanksgiving feast, you’ve come to the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a treasured family favorite that has been passed down through generations. It captures the warmth of holiday gatherings, filled with laughter and love, making it the perfect companion for turkey or even as a standalone dish on busy weeknights.

This stuffing recipe is special because it strikes that ideal balance between chewy and moist, sweet and savory. Whether you’re preparing for a big family gathering or just want to enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this stuffing will bring everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this stuffing without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the nostalgic flavors of this classic dish, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance, so you can spend more time with your loved ones on the big day.
• Delicious flavor: Packed with aromatic herbs and fresh veggies, each bite is bursting with flavor that will leave you wanting more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is half the fun! You’ll find these simple and wholesome components are likely already in your pantry or local grocery store.

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 parts about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add some fruit: Toss in some chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
• Go wild with nuts: Sprinkle in some toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and depth of flavor.
• Herb it up: Experiment by adding different herbs like rosemary or dill to give your stuffing a unique twist.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the eggs for an equally delightful veggie stuffing.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread those dry bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them lightly in the oven for about 10 minutes. This step adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when mixed with other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in your diced onions and celery, sautéing until they are tender and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together so that each bread cube is coated in those delicious herb-infused veggies.

Step 4: Bind It Together

In another bowl, whisk together chicken broth and eggs until well combined. Pour this mixture over your bread mixture. Stir gently until everything is moistened but not mushy—the goal here is to achieve that beautiful chewy texture that we all know and love.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—this will create that crunchy topping everyone looks forward to!

Now you’re ready to serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe at your holiday table! Enjoy every bite surrounded by loved ones as you create new memories together.

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a family tradition filled with love, and these tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use day-old bread: Day-old or stale bread absorbs moisture better, giving your stuffing that delightful chewy texture without getting mushy.

• Sauté vegetables first: Sautéing the onions and celery in butter before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavors, making the dish even more savory and aromatic.

• Customize your seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste preferences; adding a pinch of nutmeg or rosemary can give your stuffing a unique twist.

• Don’t skip the broth: Using homemade or low-sodium chicken broth not only adds moisture but also enriches the flavor profile, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, resulting in an even tastier dish when served.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your Thanksgiving stuffing can be just as important as how it tastes. Elevate your dining experience by incorporating thoughtful serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry sauce: Serving a side of tangy cranberry sauce complements the savory flavors of the stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, making them a perfect accompaniment.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes are comfort food at its best and pair wonderfully with the stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: A classic side that brings together green beans with creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions—it’s sure to please!
• Sweet potato casserole: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes topped with crunchy pecans creates a lovely contrast to the savory stuffing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your holiday guests with Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. Enjoy every moment spent around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving stuffing is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side dish without the last-minute rush. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it, ensuring a stress-free holiday.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Prepare the stuffing as directed, but do not bake it.
• Once cooled, place the stuffing in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, allow the stuffing to thaw completely first.
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe that might help you out!

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

Yes! Feel free to mix and match different types of bread such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure they are dried out for best results.

How can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?

You can easily convert this recipe by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substituting butter with a plant-based alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy it!

What if I want to add more ingredients to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize your stuffing by adding nuts, dried fruits like cranberries, or sautéed mushrooms. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content so it doesn’t become too soggy.

How do I know when Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is done cooking?

The stuffing is ready when it’s golden brown on top and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The edges should be crisp while remaining moist inside.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as my family does! This classic dish brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, making it a cherished part of our holiday traditions. Remember that cooking is all about love and sharing—so gather your loved ones around and create delicious memories together. Happy cooking!