Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that really feels like home, you’ve come to the right place. Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family favorite that has been passed down through generations. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories shared around the table, laughter filling the air, and the warmth of family gatherings. This stuffing is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting or for special occasions when you want to impress your loved ones.

What I adore about this stuffing is its perfect balance of chewy and moist textures, along with a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. Plus, it can be made from scratch or with some simple shortcuts—whatever suits your schedule best!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of preparation: This stuffing comes together easily, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a hearty stuffing! It’s a dish that brings smiles to faces young and old.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time, so you can enjoy more time with your guests.
• Delicious flavor: With a wonderful blend of spices and fresh ingredients, every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. 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 ½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

One of the best parts about this stuffing recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add nuts or dried fruits: Toss in some chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness.
• Use different herbs: Try rosemary or oregano if you’re craving a different flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes to accommodate dietary needs.
• Go vegetarian: Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based without losing any flavor.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your bread into cubes and letting them dry out overnight. This step is essential as it helps absorb the flavorful broth without turning mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add in the diced onions and celery. Sauté until they are tender and translucent—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while mixing until evenly moistened. The key here is to ensure every cube gets some love!

Step 4: Add Eggs

Beat the eggs in a separate bowl before adding them to the mixture. They help bind everything together while adding richness to each bite.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer your stuffing into 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.

And there you have it! A delicious dish that will surely become a staple at your holiday celebrations or any family gathering! Enjoy making this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate Grandma’s classic recipe to new heights!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread is ideal for stuffing because it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, simply toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes.
• Sauté Vegetables First: Cooking your onions and celery before adding them to the mixture enhances their flavors and ensures they are perfectly tender in your final dish. Plus, the aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth!
• Balance Your Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings based on your personal taste. Taste as you go; each herb brings its unique flavor profile, so find what works best for you!
• Don’t Skip the Eggs: The eggs serve as a binding agent that holds everything together. They add richness and help create that perfect texture you crave in a stuffing.
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow your stuffing to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to scoop onto plates.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing when served right. Here’s how to present this comforting dish beautifully at your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley on top adds color and freshness, making the dish more inviting.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce on the side provides a bright contrast in flavor—sweet and tart against the savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the rich stuffing beautifully.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that balances out the savory notes of the stuffing while providing comfort.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add a nice crunch and a lovely pop of color to your holiday spread.
• Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with maple syrup bring a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like stuffing.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to create not just a dish but cherished memories around the Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every bite of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Stuffing is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you valuable time on the big day. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious stuffing.

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 the container with the date so you can keep track.

Freezing

• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish and add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Remove foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can mix different types of bread such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure they are dried out enough for optimal texture.

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

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients will still provide that comforting flavor profile you love!

Can I adjust the spices in Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Definitely! You can adjust the spices according to your preference. Feel free to add more herbs or even incorporate nuts and dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

How long can I store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is truly something special, bringing together flavors and memories that make every holiday gathering warm and inviting. As you dive into making this dish, I hope you feel connected to those cherished moments around your own family table. Enjoy every step of the process and don’t forget to share it with loved ones! Happy cooking!