Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that will make your Thanksgiving table complete, look no further! My Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe has been a cherished family favorite for as long as I can remember. The aroma of sautéed onions and fresh herbs fills the kitchen, instantly bringing back fond memories of family gatherings. It’s not just for Thanksgiving, though! This stuffing is perfect for busy weeknights or any special occasion when you want to add a touch of warmth to your meal.

What makes this recipe stand out is its wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The bread cubes are perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it alone, this stuffing is sure to bring a smile to your face!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip this up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious stuffing, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables create an amazing taste that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or even as a cozy main course for meat-free dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this comforting stuffing, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 stuffing recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can customize it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Mix in Fruits: Diced apples or dried cranberries can add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
• Change Up the Bread: Experiment with different types of bread like whole grain or cornbread for unique flavors.
• Boost the Veggies: Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor.

How to Make Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing the onion and chopping the celery. Sauté them in melted butter over medium heat until they become soft and fragrant. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the stuffing.

Step 2: Mix in the Herbs

Once your veggies are ready, stir in the fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and rosemary—and cook for another minute. This allows their aromatic oils to release into the mixture, creating a deliciously fragrant base that will infuse every bite of stuffing.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your sautéed vegetable mixture with the cubed bread. Pour in the low-sodium broth gradually while gently tossing everything together until well combined. The key here is ensuring all bread pieces soak up that lovely broth without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Season to Perfection

Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste! A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out all those wonderful flavors from the veggies and herbs.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-45 minutes until golden brown on top. Baking gives it that irresistible crispy texture while keeping the inside moist.

And there you have it! Your Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is ready to be shared around the table. Enjoy every bite filled with warmth and love!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Making stuffing can seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you can create a dish that will wow your family and friends!

• Use Stale Bread: Starting with stale bread is key to achieving the perfect texture. It absorbs the broth without becoming mushy, giving you that ideal crispy exterior and moist interior.
• Sauté Vegetables First: Sautéing your onions and celery before mixing them into the bread helps to deepen their flavors. This step adds a rich aroma and brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
• Don’t Skimp on Herbs: Fresh herbs make all the difference in this recipe! Their vibrant flavors elevate the stuffing and provide that quintessential Thanksgiving taste. Always opt for fresh when possible!
• Adjust Broth to Preference: Depending on how moist you like your stuffing, feel free to adjust the broth amount. Start with 4 cups, but add more if you prefer it a bit soggier.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let your stuffing sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to scoop onto plates while retaining its delicious moisture.

How to Serve Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

When it comes to serving this delightful stuffing, presentation can make it even more inviting. Here are some ideas to turn your dish into a holiday centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant green color and fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside some homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized little gems are nutty and provide a great crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with soft stuffing.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are always a crowd-pleaser and create a comforting plate alongside your stuffing.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds an extra layer of flavor and texture with its creamy sauce and crispy onion topping, making it an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Each of these accompanying dishes enhances not only the meal but also creates a warm holiday atmosphere that everyone will enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is not just a treat for the holiday; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more quality moments with your loved ones during the festivities.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of serving.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffing to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy access.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the stuffing with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing this delicious dish!

Can I use different types of bread in this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! While sourdough and French bread work great, feel free to experiment with other types like whole grain or ciabatta. Just ensure they’re dried out so they absorb all those lovely flavors.

How can I make this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe gluten-free?

To make this stuffing gluten-free, simply substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, especially broth, are also gluten-free.

What is the best way to add more flavor to my stuffing?

Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or chopped nuts for added texture and depth of flavor. Fresh herbs can also be increased based on your preference!

Can I prepare this stuffing without butter?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe brings warmth and joy to your holiday table. It’s a dish that embodies love and tradition, evoking memories of family gatherings and celebrating togetherness. I encourage you to try making it and share it with your family—there’s nothing quite like homemade stuffing! Happy cooking!