Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish to bring to your holiday table, look no further than this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This recipe has been in my family for generations, and it truly brings back the warmest memories of holiday gatherings filled with laughter and love. The combination of tender bread, sautéed vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a stuffing that is perfectly crisp on the outside and moist on the inside. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; this stuffing is a fantastic side for family dinners or any cozy gathering.

This recipe is so easy to make that even novice cooks can whip it up with confidence. Friends and family will rave about it, making it a staple in your kitchen during the holidays and beyond!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that feels special.
• Easy Preparation: The straightforward steps make this stuffing accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves this recipe! It’s sure to become a go-to at your family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and simply bake before serving, saving you time on busy holidays.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of fresh herbs and sautéed veggies makes every bite bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our stuffing. These are staples that you might already have in your kitchen, making this recipe even more convenient.

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 Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to add your own twist based on what you enjoy or have on hand.

• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Chopped dried cranberries or apples can add a delightful sweetness.
• Make it herbaceous: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano for varied flavors.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute traditional bread with gluten-free options to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. Using stale bread is perfect because it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, feel free to toast fresh bread cubes lightly in the oven.

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 soft and translucent—this step really brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

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 until fragrant; this will infuse the stuffing with delicious herbal notes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread. Slowly pour in the low-sodium broth while gently tossing everything together. Be careful not to overmix; you want those lovely bread cubes to stay intact!

Step 5: Season and Bake

Season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe ready to be enjoyed by all!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making the perfect stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs broth without becoming mushy, leading to a perfectly textured stuffing that holds its shape.

• Don’t Skimp on Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that elevates your stuffing. The aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in!

• Sauté Vegetables Thoroughly: Cooking your onion and celery until they’re soft brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Taste as You Go: Adjusting seasoning is key! A small taste of the mixture before baking allows you to achieve the perfect balance of salt and pepper.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your stuffing to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve while still keeping that delicious moisture.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving your stuffing with flair can turn this already comforting dish into a centerpiece for your holiday table. Here are some ideas to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or additional sage over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce adds a delightful contrast in flavor and a beautiful splash of color.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provides a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic side brings creamy goodness and crunch from fried onions, complementing the stuffing perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with butter or gravy create a rich pairing that everyone loves during Thanksgiving.
• Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers a delightful start to your meal, setting a cozy tone for the feast ahead.

With these serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving table will not only look inviting but also tantalize every guest’s taste buds! Enjoy preparing this traditional recipe that captures the essence of family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for the busy holiday season. You can easily prepare it in advance, freeing up valuable time on the day of your celebration.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Place cooled stuffing in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing in the refrigerator overnight prior to reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, adding a splash of broth if it’s dry.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

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?

Yes! You can prepare this stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it. This makes it super convenient for your Thanksgiving meal planning.

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

Sourdough or French bread works wonderfully in this recipe! Both types absorb flavors beautifully and create a delightful texture.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Using vegetable broth is a great option if you prefer a vegetarian version. It will still retain all the delicious flavors of the herbs and vegetables.

How do I ensure my stuffing is not too dry?

To keep your stuffing moist, add enough broth while mixing, and cover it while baking until the last few minutes. This method will create a crispy top while keeping the inside nice and moist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as my family does every year! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm reminder of love and tradition shared around the table. Feel free to put your own twist on it, and savor every bite during your holiday gatherings. Happy cooking!