Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

When it comes to Thanksgiving, nothing says comfort and tradition like Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This timeless dish has been a staple on holiday tables for generations, bringing together the warmth of sautéed onions and celery, the aromatic blend of herbs like sage and thyme, and the heartiness of perfectly toasted bread cubes. If you’re looking for a classic stuffing recipe that will impress your family and fill your home with nostalgic holiday aromas, this is it.

Stuffing is the perfect side dish to complement your Thanksgiving feast. Whether you’re serving turkey, roasted vegetables, or a family favorite, Grandma’s recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to evoke cherished memories of holidays past. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to recreate this classic dish.

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

This recipe is all about simplicity, tradition, and flavor. It’s ideal for anyone who appreciates comforting, homemade dishes that bring people together. The buttery, herb-infused bread cubes offer just the right balance of soft and crispy textures, making it perfect for any holiday table. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can have this stuffing ready to bake. It’s a great recipe for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, reliable dish to add to their Thanksgiving menu.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this stuffing to your taste. Prefer it meat-free? Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth. Love extra herbs? Add more sage or thyme to elevate the flavors.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday parties.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. The key to this stuffing’s success is using high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Homemade Breadcrumbs for Stuffing

• 16 cups dry bread cubes (equivalent to about 3 large loaves of bread, homemade or store-bought)

Stuffing Ingredients

• ½ cup butter
• 2 cups onion, diced (½-inch pieces)
• 2 cups celery, diced (½-inch pieces)
• 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon thyme (fresh chopped or dried)
• ½ teaspoon sage (fresh chopped or dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ – 3 cups chicken broth (vegetable stock can be substituted)
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)

this RECIPE

Making Homemade Breadcrumbs for Stuffing

If you want to take your stuffing to the next level, making your own breadcrumbs is the way to go. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Using a serrated bread knife, cut the bread into ½-inch to ¾-inch cubes. The size is crucial to ensure the bread cubes absorb the liquid but don’t get too soggy.
3. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for about an hour, tossing them occasionally to ensure they dry evenly. You want them to be completely dry and crunchy.
5. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, store the cooled cubes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

How to Prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Now that you have your breadcrumbs ready, let’s move on to the main event: assembling and baking the stuffing.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, and sauté for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should become tender and translucent.
3. Add the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and allow the spices to bloom in the butter and vegetables for a minute or two.
4. Pour in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth (or vegetable stock if preferred).
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and then add them to the broth mixture. Whisk everything together to combine.
6. Place the dry bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour the broth mixture over the bread, gently folding the ingredients together. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy—there should be no standing liquid. If the mixture seems dry, add more broth, a ½ cup at a time.
7. Spray a 9” x 13” baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
8. Bake for 45-60 minutes, stirring gently every 15-20 minutes. The stuffing should be golden brown on top and tender throughout.
9. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Stuffing Every Time

• Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread can make your stuffing too mushy. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the broth without becoming soggy.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs. Poultry seasoning, thyme, and sage are the backbone of flavor in this stuffing, so make sure to add them in the right quantities.
• Don’t Over-Bake: Over-baking can lead to dry stuffing. Check it regularly, and once the top is golden brown, it’s done!

Variations & Ingredient Swaps

Looking to make this recipe your own? Here are some variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
• Add Meat: For a heartier stuffing, add cooked sausage, bacon, or diced turkey to the mix.
• Different Herbs: If you prefer, try adding rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Stuffing

When it comes to presenting your stuffing, simple is best. Here are some serving tips to make your dish shine:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness.
• Pair with a Roasted Main: Stuffing pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Stuffing

1. Using Fresh Bread: Fresh bread holds too much moisture and can result in a soggy stuffing. Always use dry or day-old bread.
2. Adding Too Much Liquid: Start with less broth and add more as needed. You want moist stuffing, but there should be no standing liquid in the dish before baking.
3. Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, fold gently to avoid turning the bread cubes into mush.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Stuffing leftovers are a treat! To store:

• Refrigerate: Place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, place the stuffing in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also add a splash of broth to rehydrate it if needed.

FAQ

Can I make stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving.

What type of bread works best for stuffing?
Any sturdy bread works well—French bread, sourdough, or a hearty country loaf are great options.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a true classic, perfect for adding that nostalgic touch to your holiday spread. It’s simple, flavorful, and packed with the warmth of family traditions. If you try this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family. And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes to enjoy year-round!

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