Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that will transport you straight to Grandma’s kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a cherished family favorite that brings warmth and joy to every gathering. It’s not just for Thanksgiving, either—this stuffing is a delightful addition to any meal, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast.

What makes this stuffing so special? It’s all about the combination of tender bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fragrant herbs. Each bite is packed with flavor and comfort. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up even on your busiest days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good stuffing! This recipe appeals to all ages and pairs wonderfully with various dishes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Less stress during busy times!
• Delicious Flavor: The mix of fresh herbs creates an aromatic experience that fills your home with holiday cheer.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few wholesome ingredients, making this stuffing is both easy and satisfying.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy that perfect contrast of crispiness on the outside and moist tenderness inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will not only fill your kitchen with delightful aromas but also bring everyone together around the table. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious 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 the best things about this stuffing recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts or Dried Fruits: Toss in some chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for an extra layer of texture and sweetness.
• Use Different Bread Types: Experiment with whole grain or gluten-free bread if you want a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like some heat!
• Incorporate Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or carrots depending on what’s fresh at your local market.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. If you have time, let them sit out overnight to become slightly stale; this helps them absorb all those wonderful flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Add in the diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté until they are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it softens the veggies and enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Mix in Herbs and Broth

Once your veggies are ready, stir in the fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary—and sauté for another minute. Then pour in the low-sodium broth gradually while stirring everything together. This mixture is where all that savory goodness comes from!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the vegetable-herb mixture. Gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 5: Bake Your Stuffing

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil to allow it to crisp up for another 15 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

With these steps completed, you’re all set to enjoy Grandma’s delicious stuffing! Just imagine how great it will taste alongside your favorite holiday dishes. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Creating the perfect stuffing can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that your dish is a hit at the Thanksgiving table!

• Choose the right bread: Opt for stale sourdough or French bread as they absorb flavors better and maintain a nice texture. Fresh bread may become too mushy, so let it dry out overnight if possible.
• Sauté your vegetables: Sautéing onions and celery before adding them to the mix enhances their flavors and softens their texture. This step adds depth to your stuffing that raw vegetables simply can’t achieve.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary bring vibrant flavors that dried herbs just can’t match. Don’t skip this step; fresh herbs will elevate your dish to another level!
• Don’t rush the broth: Pour in the broth gradually and mix gently. This ensures even moisture distribution throughout your stuffing, allowing each bite to be perfectly seasoned without becoming overly soggy.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow your stuffing to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Presenting your delicious stuffing is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas on how to make it visually appealing and enjoyable for your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
• Cranberry sauce: A small bowl of tangy cranberry sauce on the side provides a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors of the stuffing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little veggies add a delightful crunch and are packed with flavor when seasoned well. Their slight bitterness balances the richness of the stuffing.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with stuffing. The buttery goodness creates a comforting combination that everyone loves.
• Green Bean Casserole: This traditional dish offers a creamy element with crunchy onion toppings, making it another favorite on any Thanksgiving table.
• Autumn Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, roasted squash, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances out the hearty stuffing.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe! Enjoy every bite of this cherished holiday classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time to make your holiday cooking less stressful. Here’s how you can store it, freeze it, and reheat it.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

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, 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 without bread?

Yes! You can use gluten-free bread as a substitute. Just ensure it’s cubed and similar in texture for the best results.

How do I ensure my Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe stays moist?

To keep your stuffing moist, be sure to add enough broth during preparation. You can also stir in a little extra melted butter if desired.

Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your stuffing with additional vegetables like mushrooms or carrots, or even nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Is this stuffing suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe uses vegetable broth as an alternative, making it perfect for vegetarians while still being deliciously hearty.

How long can I store leftovers of this stuffing?

You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just remember to follow proper storage methods.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug from the past that brings everyone together at the table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or hosting friends, this stuffing is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and of course, delicious food!