Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing that feels like a warm hug on a chilly Thanksgiving day, look no further! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family favorite that brings everyone together. It’s the perfect blend of chewy bread and savory seasoning, making it the ideal side dish to complement your holiday feast. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s not just for Thanksgiving—it’s great for busy weeknights and family gatherings all year round!

What makes this stuffing truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re making it from scratch or taking a few shortcuts, it always turns out delicious. You can feel the love in every bite, and I promise it will quickly become a staple in your family too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly flavors: The comforting taste of this stuffing appeals to everyone, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it earlier in the day or even the night before, saving precious time on Thanksgiving.
• Customizable options: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This stuffing recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe:

For the Base

• 16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
• 1/2 cup butter

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups onion (1/2 diced)
• 2 cups celery (1/2 diced)

Seasonings

• 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

Binding Ingredients

• 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! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add some fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or apples for a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
• Go nutty: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Herb swap: Try using fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of the traditional seasonings for a bright twist.
• Veggie delight: Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to sneak in more veggies while boosting flavor.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by drying out your bread cubes. You can do this by leaving them out overnight or baking them lightly in a low oven. This step is important because it prevents your stuffing from becoming soggy later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in your onions and celery, cooking until they are soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. This step really enhances their natural sweetness and brings depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with sautéed vegetables and seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while mixing everything together gently. This helps ensure that every piece of bread gets nicely moistened without falling apart.

Step 4: Bind It with Eggs

Beat your eggs separately and then fold them into the mixture. The eggs act as a binder, helping everything hold together while adding richness.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your stuffing mixture 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 golden brown on top. The crispy edges will be irresistible!

Now that you’ve made Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe, get ready for compliments from friends and family alike! Enjoy this delightful dish during your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can make it even better!

• Use Stale Bread: Using stale bread cubes enhances the texture of the stuffing, allowing it to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, simply toast it lightly before using.

• Sauté Vegetables: Sautéing the onions and celery in butter before adding them to the mixture brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile of your stuffing.

• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings according to your taste preference. Adding extra herbs like rosemary or oregano can personalize the stuffing and make it your own family tradition.

• Moisten Generously: When adding chicken broth, pour it gradually until you reach your desired moisture level. This ensures that every bite is flavorful and not overly dry.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making for a more cohesive dish.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is all about presentation! A few thoughtful touches can elevate this beloved dish for your holiday table.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small serving of cranberry sauce on the side provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Turkey: The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving feasts, roasted turkey pairs wonderfully with stuffing, allowing each bite to showcase both dishes’ flavors.

• Green Bean Casserole: This creamy casserole with crispy onions adds a nice textural contrast and balances out the richness of the stuffing.

• Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes are always a hit, providing a comforting element that goes hand-in-hand with stuffing.

• Buttered Corn: Sweet buttered corn offers a lovely pop of color and sweetness, complementing the savory notes of the stuffing beautifully.

Now you’re ready to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe shine at your holiday gathering! Enjoy creating those cherished memories around the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the season without stress. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, making your Thanksgiving day smoother and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the stuffing into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight first.
• Place the stuffing in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

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

Can I use gluten-free bread for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a sturdy variety that can hold up well when mixed with other ingredients.

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

You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms, diced apples, or dried cranberries. Fresh herbs like rosemary or additional spices can also elevate the taste.

Can I prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe a day in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on Thanksgiving day for maximum convenience.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as my family does. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a delightful blend of memories and flavors that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy every moment of making this recipe and share it with loved ones—it’s bound to become a cherished tradition in your home too!