Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug on Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family classic that has been passed down through generations. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories made while preparing it with loved ones. This stuffing is perfect for those busy weeknights or special family gatherings when you want to bring everyone together around the table.

What makes this stuffing truly special is its delightful balance of chewy and moist textures combined with sweet and savory notes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just stepping into the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and oh-so-satisfying. You might even find yourself making it more often than just during the holidays!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious stuffing ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors that remind them of home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your guests during mealtime.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices ensures every bite is packed with mouthwatering goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe:

For the Stuffing Base

• 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)

For Seasoning and Binding

• 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

For Moisture

• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this stuffing recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Include Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and rich taste.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Herb Swap: If you prefer fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead of dried; they bring a bright 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 your dry bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown. This step helps achieve that perfect chewy texture while absorbing all those wonderful flavors later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Add in the diced onions and celery, cooking until they are soft and translucent—about 5-7 minutes. This process enhances their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a big mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with your sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper for an aromatic kick. Gently mix everything together so that each piece of bread is coated with those lovely seasonings.

Step 4: Bind with Broth and Eggs

Now it’s time to add moisture! Pour in the chicken broth while stirring gently. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl before adding them into the mixture as well. The eggs act as a binder, giving your stuffing that classic texture we all love.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your mixture into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. This final touch gives it that beautiful crust while keeping the insides perfectly moist.

Enjoy serving Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe alongside your favorite holiday dishes—your loved ones will savor every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving stuffing is all about attention to detail. Here are some pro tips to make sure yours turns out deliciously every time!

• Use stale bread: Starting with stale bread cubes helps the stuffing absorb the broth better, preventing it from becoming mushy and ensuring a delightful texture.

• Sauté vegetables first: Cooking the onion and celery in butter before adding them to the stuffing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the amount of herbs and spices based on your family’s preferences; this will make your stuffing uniquely yours.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

• Consider your broth options: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth can be a great alternative that still provides rich flavor without sacrificing quality.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

This stuffing is not only a comforting side dish but also a centerpiece of any Thanksgiving spread. Here are some lovely ways to present this classic dish that your guests will appreciate!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted nuts: Adding slivers or chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the stuffing beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables—like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes—roasted to perfection can add both nutrition and vibrant colors to your table.

• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds in olive oil provide a satisfying crunch and elevate your overall meal with their lightness.

• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing, balancing flavors perfectly on each plate.

• Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich gravy are a classic comfort food pairing that will keep your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

With these tips and serving suggestions, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will surely be a hit at your holiday gathering! Enjoy sharing this beloved dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving stuffing recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday cooking process smoother and stress-free. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious stuffing.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the stuffing cool thoroughly.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. If it’s dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth before reheating.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.

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

The stuffing should be golden brown on top and heated all the way through. If baked inside a turkey, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What is the best bread to use for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

A mix of different types of bread works great—try using sourdough, whole wheat, or even cornbread for varied textures and flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as my family does! This dish brings warmth and comfort to our holiday table and creates cherished memories with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to try it out this season; I’m sure it will become a beloved tradition in your home too!