Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug from Grandma, then you’ve come to the right place! This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family favorite that brings everyone together during the holidays. It’s not just for Thanksgiving, though—this delightful dish is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners and gatherings any time of year. The balance of chewy and moist, sweet and savory flavors makes it a true comfort food classic!

What I love most about this stuffing is how it can be made from scratch or with a few simple shortcuts. No matter how you prepare it, every bite will remind you of home. So, gather your loved ones around the table, and let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this stuffing comes together without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of seasonings creates a rich taste that elevates any meal. It’s truly irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry or local grocery store. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture.

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

The beauty of this stuffing recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Fruits and Nuts: Toss in some dried cranberries or walnuts for added texture and sweetness.
• Change Up the Bread: Use whole grain or sourdough bread for a unique twist on flavor.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to customize the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate mushrooms or carrots for an extra serving of veggies!

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your bread into cubes and letting them dry out overnight. This step is crucial as it ensures your stuffing has the perfect texture—chewy but not soggy. If you’re short on time, you can toast them lightly in the oven.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, stirring frequently until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Season It Up

Once your veggies are ready, stir in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Allowing these spices to bloom in the hot mixture will infuse every bite of your stuffing with delicious flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, mix together your bread cubes and sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth gradually, mixing gently until everything is well combined but still fluffy. Finally, whisk together your eggs in a separate bowl before adding them to the mixture; this helps bind everything together.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil for an additional 30 minutes to achieve that golden top we all love!

And there you have it! Once it’s baked to perfection, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every bite of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe—it’s bound to become a beloved dish at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the liquid better and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture. Fresh bread can become too mushy when mixed with broth.

• Sauté Vegetables First: Cooking the onions and celery in butter before adding them to the mix enhances their flavors and adds richness to the stuffing. It also softens them, making for a more pleasant texture.

• Let It Rest: Allow your stuffing to sit for at least 15 minutes after mixing all ingredients. This extra time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Be sure to taste your mixture before baking, and feel free to add more herbs or spices if desired for a personal touch.

• Bake Uncovered for Crispiness: For a crunchy top layer, bake your stuffing uncovered. This allows the moisture to escape and creates a deliciously crispy crust—just like Grandma made!

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presentation is key when serving this heartwarming dish! Here are some ideas on how to elevate your Thanksgiving table with Grandma’s stuffing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the savory stuffing beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor contrast—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of texture.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little gems are caramelized to perfection, providing a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with stuffing.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots offer a lovely balance of sweetness against the savory notes of the stuffing.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic favorite, creamy mashed potatoes add comfort to any Thanksgiving plate, making them an ideal companion for stuffing.
• Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds bring freshness and crunch, enhancing the overall meal experience.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe not just a side dish but an unforgettable centerpiece of your holiday feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving stuffing is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking much more manageable.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the stuffing, ensure it’s completely cooled.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen 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. For a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe.

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

Absolutely! You can mix and match different breads like sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure they are dry enough for optimal texture.

How do I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe without eggs?

You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg as an alternative binder.

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

Yes! Feel free to customize your stuffing with additions like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or sautéed mushrooms. Just keep balance in mind!

How long does Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring family together during the holidays, filling your home with warmth and great aromas. Enjoy making this cherished recipe and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!