Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish to grace your holiday table, you’ve come to the right place! This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family favorite that brings everyone together. The rich aroma of baked bread and herbs fills the air, instantly making any gathering feel like home. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday celebration, this stuffing is sure to be the star of the show.

What makes this stuffing truly special is its delightful balance of texture and flavor. With crispy edges and tender insides, each bite is a comforting reminder of all those joyful memories spent around the table. Plus, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish on your table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves stuffing! It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and simply bake it before serving—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables create an irresistible combination that enhances every meal.
• Versatile Dish: This stuffing can accompany any main course, making it a staple for various occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients will be as enjoyable as preparing this classic dish! These simple, wholesome components come together beautifully for a scrumptious Thanksgiving treat.

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 the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Add some fruit: Mix in dried cranberries or apples for a sweet twist!
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
• Try different bread types: Use whole grain or gluten-free bread to suit your dietary needs.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. Allow them to dry out overnight or toast them in the oven at low heat. This step is crucial because stale bread absorbs the broth better and ensures your stuffing won’t turn mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add the diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté until they are soft and translucent. This step adds depth to your stuffing by enhancing the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

Step 3: Mix in Herbs and Broth

Once your vegetables are ready, stir in the fresh herbs along with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in the low-sodium broth gradually while mixing everything together thoroughly. The broth will help bind all flavors while keeping the stuffing moist.

Step 4: Combine with Bread Cubes

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sautéed mixture with the cubed bread. Toss gently until all pieces are coated with broth and vegetable goodness. This ensures every bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for about 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. The crispy top layer adds such wonderful texture!

And there you have it! Your Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is ready to impress! Enjoy this comforting dish surrounded by loved ones—it truly makes every gathering special.

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

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

• Use Day-Old Bread: Toasted or slightly stale bread cubes absorb moisture better and help create that perfect texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Take your time when sautéing the onions and celery. This enhances their flavors, making them sweeter and more aromatic, which will greatly enrich your stuffing.

• Mix in Broth Gradually: Pour in the broth little by little while mixing. This allows for even distribution of moisture and helps achieve the desired consistency without making your stuffing soggy.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Always taste your mixture before baking to ensure it has enough salt and pepper. Adjusting now means you’ll have a perfectly seasoned stuffing!

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let your stuffing sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presentation can make any dish shine, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful stuffing!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A small spoonful on top offers a sweet-tart contrast that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
• Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled over the stuffing provide a delightful crunch and added richness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these brussels sprouts add a lovely touch of earthiness that balances well with stuffing.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with stuffing; don’t forget the gravy!

• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds bring a light, crunchy element to the table, making it an ideal counterpoint to hearty stuffing.

• Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet dish topped with crunchy pecans provides a lovely contrast not only in taste but also color, creating an inviting array on your holiday table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a heartwarming Thanksgiving meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every moment spent around the table with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not only scrumptious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your holiday gathering without any last-minute stress.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffing completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the stuffing in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you in your cooking journey!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This will enhance the flavor as the herbs have more time to infuse into the bread.

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

Sourdough or French bread works wonderfully due to their texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s slightly stale so it absorbs all those delicious broth flavors!

Can I use gluten-free bread in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute gluten-free bread cubes for this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I adjust the seasoning if I want a more flavorful stuffing?

Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more herbs or spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of nutmeg for depth.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe a part of your holiday traditions! It’s a wonderful way to bring family together around the table with its comforting flavors and delightful aroma. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any personal touches you add along the way!