Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting addition to your holiday table, let me introduce you to my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and every time I make it, I’m flooded with warm memories of family gatherings and laughter. It’s the perfect blend of crunchy bread cubes, savory vegetables, and aromatic herbs that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This stuffing is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a festive family gathering, this recipe is sure to please both young and old. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and clear instructions, this stuffing comes together quickly.
• Family Favorite: Its delicious flavors appeal to all ages, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffing in advance, saving you time on the big day.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and herbs, this stuffing is not only tasty but also nourishing.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or even on its own, it’s suitable for various occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering stuffing, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find and bring together beautifully to create unforgettable flavors.

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 stuffing recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
• Incorporate Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Include some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for those who enjoy a little heat.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for an inclusive option.

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 if possible; this helps achieve that perfect crispy texture in your stuffing. The drier the bread gets, the better it absorbs all those delicious flavors!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add diced onion and chopped celery to the skillet. Sauté until they become soft and translucent—about five minutes. This step is crucial as sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your stuffing.

Step 3: Mix in the Herbs

Once your vegetables are ready, stir in the fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook them for another minute until fragrant. This will infuse your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sautéed vegetable mixture with the cubed bread. Pour in the low-sodium broth gradually while stirring until everything is evenly moistened. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown on top. This final step creates that lovely crispy crust while keeping the inside moist.

And there you have it! Your Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is ready to be served. Watch as everyone gathers around for heaping spoonfuls of this hearty dish—it’s sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions too!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use stale bread: Stale or day-old bread absorbs the broth better, giving you that perfect texture—crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.

• Sauté vegetables until soft: Cooking the onions and celery before adding them to the stuffing enhances their flavors, making your stuffing aromatic and flavorful.

• Mix in fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary provide depth and richness. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs work too—just use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a pinch of salt and pepper, taste as you go, and adjust accordingly. This ensures your stuffing has just the right level of seasoning without being overpowering.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your stuffing to sit for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your delicious stuffing can elevate its appeal at your holiday table. Here are some creative ideas to make it shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These bring a crispy texture and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with stuffing.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are classic comfort food that balances well with the hearty stuffing.
• Green bean casserole: The creamy sauce and crispy topping add an irresistible crunch to your meal while introducing vibrant color to your plate.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweet glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness and brightness, creating a beautiful contrast to the savory stuffing.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving table will be filled with love, warmth, and deliciousness! Enjoy every bite of this cherished family recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe in advance can save you time on the big day, allowing you to focus on family and festivities. Here are some practical tips for storing and reheating your stuffing.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help clarify any doubts.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day or two in advance. Just follow the storage instructions above, and it will taste just as delicious when you serve it.

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

Sourdough or French bread is ideal due to their texture and flavor. They hold up well during baking, giving you that perfect combination of crispy outside and moist inside.

Can I add other ingredients to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize your stuffing by adding vegetables like mushrooms or carrots, or include nuts for added crunch. Just remember to keep it deliciously simple!

How can I adjust the seasoning in this Thanksgiving stuffing recipe?

Seasoning is personal! Taste your mixture before baking, and feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. It’s all about making it suit your family’s taste!

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings families together around the table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, love, and lots of delicious food!