Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and inviting dish to grace your holiday table, let me introduce you to my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This stuffing has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. There’s something magical about the combination of tender bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fragrant herbs that brings everyone together. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or even busy weeknights when you want something comforting.

What makes this stuffing truly special is its balance of textures—crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it an ideal side dish for any festive meal. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself craving more than just the holiday season to enjoy it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Everyone in your family will love this hearty stuffing, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance, saving you time on the big day.
• Delicious flavor: The mix of fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables creates a savory taste that’s sure to please.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a breeze! These simple, wholesome components make it easy to whip up this delightful dish.

For the Stuffing

• Bread (sourdough or French): 10 cups cubed
• Onion: 1 large, finely diced
• Celery: 2 cups, finely chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
• Fresh herbs: 2 tbsp sage, 2 tbsp thyme, 1 tbsp rosemary (all finely chopped)
• Low-sodium broth: 4 cups (chicken or vegetable)
• Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted
• Salt and pepper: To taste

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 250 calories, Carbs: 35g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 2g

Variations

This stuffing recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes and what you have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Mix in fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can bring a sweet touch that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Spice it up: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder if you’re looking for a little kick.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. This will help them soak up all those delicious flavors during cooking. If you have time, let the bread sit out overnight to dry out a bit; this step ensures your stuffing won’t be too soggy!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the finely diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté until they are tender and aromatic—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix in the Herbs

Once your veggies are ready, stir in the freshly chopped herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary. Let them cook for another minute or two so their flavors can infuse into the mixture. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine your cubed bread with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Slowly pour in your low-sodium broth while gently tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure every piece of bread gets coated; this is key for that moist interior!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. This step creates that delightful contrast between crunchy tops and soft centers.

Now you’re ready to impress your family with my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs the broth better, resulting in a moister stuffing that holds together beautifully. Fresh bread can become too mushy, so give your loaf some time to dry out.

• Sauté vegetables properly: Cooking the onion and celery until they are soft and fragrant releases their flavors, making your stuffing more aromatic and delicious. This step adds depth to your dish.

• Don’t skimp on herbs: Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor of your stuffing. Using a mix of sage, thyme, and rosemary creates that classic Thanksgiving taste that everyone loves.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Give your mixture a taste before baking to ensure it’s just right. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed to align with your preferences.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven will help it set and make it easier to serve. It also gives those delicious flavors more time to meld together.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

When you’re ready to serve this delightful stuffing, presentation can take your dish from great to unforgettable! Here are some ideas on how to make it shine on your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop on top provides a lovely contrast in flavor—sweet and tart against the savory stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little veggies offer a nutty flavor that complements the stuffing beautifully. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, hearty side that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving meal.
• Green bean almondine: This dish adds a lovely crunch and lightness to your meal. The almonds give an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Butternut squash soup: A warm bowl of this creamy soup serves as a cozy starter that enhances the overall autumnal vibe of your Thanksgiving feast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests with Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created something truly special for your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy the flavors throughout the holiday season.

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

• If you want to freeze your stuffing, let it cool down completely first.
• Place the stuffing in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen stuffing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the same reheating instructions.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to follow the storage guidelines for best results.

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

Sourdough or French bread works wonderfully for this recipe. They provide great texture and flavor while soaking up all those delicious broth and herb flavors.

Can I use different herbs in this stuffing recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs if sage, thyme, or rosemary aren’t available. Just keep in mind that fresh herbs will give you a more vibrant flavor than dried ones.

How do I make my stuffing more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your stuffing, consider adding sautéed garlic, mushrooms, or even chopped nuts for extra texture. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten things up!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and love to any holiday table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, it’s bound to become a cherished part of your tradition. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!