Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming addition to your holiday table, look no further than Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This cherished recipe has been passed down through generations and holds a special place in our family gatherings. There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked stuffing filling the kitchen, inviting everyone to come together and celebrate.

This stuffing is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any family gathering when you want to add a touch of comfort food to the table. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to please both young and old alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this stuffing comes together quickly, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a warm, savory stuffing—it’s a dish that brings smiles around the table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, saving you time on the big day.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! These simple, wholesome ingredients will create a stuffing that’s bursting with flavor. 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
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped for garnish)

Variations

This stuffing recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your family’s tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Include Fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can add a sweet twist that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to give your stuffing a unique flair.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the dry bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until they are lightly golden. Toasting the bread helps maintain the right texture in your stuffing, preventing it from becoming too mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the diced onions and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes or until they are soft and translucent. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine your toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while mixing gently until everything is well combined but not overly mushy. The broth adds moisture without making it soggy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Bake

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs before adding them to your stuffing mixture. The eggs help bind everything together and give it a lovely texture. Transfer your stuffing into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Once baked, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color! Serve hot alongside your favorite main dishes and watch as everyone digs in joyfully.

Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to every meal!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing from scratch can seem daunting, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be a stuffing pro in no time!

• Use day-old bread: This helps to create the ideal texture. Day-old bread is drier and absorbs the broth better, resulting in a fluffier stuffing.

• Sauté your vegetables: Taking the time to sauté the onions and celery in butter not only softens them, but also deepens their flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Seasoning is key to a flavorful stuffing. Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking or even add in some dried cranberries or nuts for an extra twist!

• Add moisture gradually: Pour in the chicken broth slowly while mixing. This allows you to control the moistness of your stuffing, ensuring it’s neither too dry nor soggy.

• Let it rest before baking: Giving your stuffing a little time to rest after mixing allows flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving this classic Thanksgiving stuffing can elevate your holiday meal! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and an appealing crunch when sprinkled on top just before serving.
• Cranberry sauce: A small bowl of cranberry sauce on the side not only provides a sweet contrast but also makes for a lovely presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances well with the rich stuffing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic provide comfort and are a classic pairing that guests will love.
• Maple-glazed carrots: The natural sweetness of these tender carrots complements the savory notes of the stuffing, creating a harmonious plate.
• Green bean casserole: This creamy and crunchy dish offers another layer of texture and flavor that rounds out your Thanksgiving feast perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will surely become a cherished part of your holiday traditions!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the holiday hustle. You can prepare it ahead of time to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving feast!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Pack the cooled stuffing tightly in a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making or enjoying this delicious stuffing.

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce as a binding agent. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg as a substitute.

What can I use instead of chicken broth in Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute for chicken broth, maintaining that rich flavor while keeping it plant-based.

How do I add more flavor to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

You can enhance the flavor by adding diced mushrooms, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.

Is there a gluten-free option for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free for a delicious alternative.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you cherish every moment spent preparing Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe this holiday season. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s about creating memories with loved ones around the table. Enjoy making this timeless dish, and may it bring warmth and comfort to your gathering. Happy cooking!

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