Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish to warm your heart and home this holiday season, look no further than my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together around the table. Each bite is filled with memories of laughter, delicious aromas, and the joy of being with loved ones. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, it’s an easy recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home too!

This stuffing is also great for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. With its blend of tender bread, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful stuffing in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy this comforting classic.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it the day before and simply bake it on the big day for stress-free hosting.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and sautéed vegetables creates an irresistible taste that complements any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You likely have many of them on hand already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this unforgettable stuffing.

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

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

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Incorporate fruits: Diced apples or cranberries can add a sweet twist to the savory flavors.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Herb swap: Experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. If using stale bread, that works perfectly! Stale bread will absorb all those wonderful flavors without getting too soggy. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and lightly toast them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they are slightly crisp. This step adds great texture!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté them until they are softened and fragrant—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This process allows their natural sweetness to come out and forms the base of your stuffing’s delicious flavor.

Step 3: Mix in the Herbs

Once your onion and celery are ready, stir in those lovely fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary. Let them cook for another minute or so to release their aromatic oils. The smell will be heavenly and will have everyone coming into the kitchen!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine your toasted bread cubes with the sautéed mixture. Pour in your low-sodium broth slowly while mixing gently until everything is well combined but not mushy. Season with salt and pepper to taste; remember that the broth may already contain salt!

Step 5: Bake Your Stuffing

Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top. This final step gives you that perfect crispy texture we all love while keeping the inside moist.

And there you have it—your very own Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! I can’t wait for you to try this at your next gathering; I’m sure it’ll create as many fond memories for you as it has for me!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll be sure to impress your family this Thanksgiving!

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs moisture better, resulting in a fluffier texture. Fresh bread can turn mushy, so let it sit out overnight or toast it lightly before cubing.

• Sauté vegetables for flavor: Sautéing the onion and celery in butter before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavors, making your stuffing more aromatic and delicious.

• Add a splash of broth gradually: Instead of dumping all the broth at once, add it gradually while mixing. This allows you to control the moisture level and ensures even distribution throughout the stuffing.

• Mix in some dried fruits or nuts: For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating dried cranberries or chopped walnuts. They provide a lovely contrast to the savory elements of the dish.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your stuffing beautifully can enhance its appeal on the holiday table. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional thyme leaves adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your stuffing.
• Cranberry sauce: A small scoop on the side not only provides a vibrant color contrast but also offers a sweet-tart flavor that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little greens add depth with their earthy flavors and pair wonderfully with the rich notes of the stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: This classic dish is creamy and crunchy—its contrasting textures work harmoniously with the moistness of your stuffing.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting staple that balances out the meal and pairs well with any gravy you might serve.
• Apple cider glazed carrots: Their natural sweetness from apple cider elevates their flavor profile, creating a delightful balance with savory dishes like stuffing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will surely shine on your holiday table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit without the last-minute rush. Making it ahead of time ensures that you can focus on other dishes and spend quality time with loved ones.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffing cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

Yes! You can prepare this stuffing a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it just before serving.

What type of bread is best for Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Sourdough or French bread works wonderfully, providing a great texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s cubed and slightly stale for best results!

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Using vegetable broth makes this recipe suitable for various dietary preferences while still delivering rich flavors.

How do I make my stuffing more flavorful?

Feel free to add extra herbs or even some dried fruit like cranberries or apricots for a touch of sweetness. Experiment with flavors that you love!

Is this stuffing gluten-free?

To make this stuffing gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread options available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! It holds a special place in my heart because it brings together family and friends around the table during the holidays. I encourage you to give it a try; I’m sure it will become a cherished recipe in your home too. Happy cooking!