Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not just any stuffing; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it never fails to impress at holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

What makes this stuffing so special? It strikes the perfect balance between chewy and moist, sweet and savory. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for both grand celebrations and everyday meals. You can easily whip it up from scratch or take some shortcuts if you’re short on time. Either way, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: The ingredients are easy to find and require minimal prep, making this recipe approachable for all home cooks.
• Family favorite flavor: The combination of herbs and fresh veggies creates a deliciously comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Make-ahead magic: You can prepare this stuffing in advance and simply reheat it before serving. Perfect for busy holiday mornings!
• Crowd-pleaser: With 15 servings, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for big family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make Grandma’s beloved stuffing:

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 things about this stuffing is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some fruit: Dried cranberries or apples can bring a lovely sweetness to the dish.
• Mix in nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and extra depth of flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this dish suitable for more dietary preferences.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to customize the flavor profile.

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 helps them absorb all the delicious flavors without getting soggy. If you’re in a hurry, you can also toast them in the oven until golden brown.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent—about 5-7 minutes. This step is key because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, which adds great depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix your bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Then sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring gently; you want everything well combined but not mushy!

Step 4: Bind with Eggs

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs. Add them to your stuffing mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. The eggs will help bind everything together during baking.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased casserole dish. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. This creates that perfect crispy crust we all love!

By following these steps, you’ll create a beautiful dish filled with warmth and love—just like Grandma used to make! Enjoy every moment as you share this delightful stuffing with friends and family this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure that your dish is just as memorable as Grandma’s!

• Choose the Right Bread: Using a mix of different breads (like sourdough, whole wheat, or French) adds depth to your stuffing, enhancing both texture and flavor.
• Stale Bread is Best: If you have bread that’s gone a bit stale, don’t toss it! Stale bread absorbs the broth better without becoming mushy, giving your stuffing that perfect chewy texture.
• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and celery. Cooking them until they’re soft and golden caramelizes their natural sugars, adding a rich sweetness to the stuffing.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Make sure to taste your mixture before baking. This way you can adjust the flavors to suit your preference and ensure a mouthwatering final dish.
• Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, let your stuffing sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presentation can elevate any dish, and Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is no exception! Here are some ideas on how to serve this classic side.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on top brings a sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully with savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy bites are seasoned with olive oil and sea salt, offering a nutty flavor that complements the stuffing perfectly.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that enhances the Thanksgiving feast’s heartiness.
• Green Bean Casserole: A classic favorite made with fresh green beans and topped with crispy onions adds crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the stuffing.
• Butternut Squash Soup: Served warm, this velvety soup is slightly sweet and pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of your stuffing.

Now you’re ready to impress your family with Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Place the cooled stuffing into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in an oven-safe 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

If you have questions about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe, we’ve got you covered!

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

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) or use a commercial egg replacer.

What bread works best for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Any dry bread will work well! Popular choices include sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread if needed. The key is to ensure it’s dried out enough to absorb the flavors.

How can I customize Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or different herbs. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions! With its classic flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like home-cooked goodness during the holidays. Happy cooking!