If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that feels like a warm hug on your Thanksgiving table, you’ve come to the right place! Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe has been a cherished tradition in my family for years. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the memories and laughter shared around the dinner table. This stuffing is perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings—it brings everyone together and fills the room with comforting aromas.

This recipe balances chewiness with moistness and sweetness with savory goodness. Whether you’re making it from scratch or taking a few shortcuts, this stuffing is bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip this up without any fuss.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a good stuffing! It’s a dish that brings smiles and happy bellies to both young and old.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this stuffing ahead of time, giving you more freedom to enjoy the holiday festivities.
Delicious Flavor: The blend of onion, celery, and spices creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe are simple and wholesome. These are staples that you might already have in your pantry, making it easy to gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

For the Stuffing

16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
1/2 cup butter
2 cups onion (1/2 diced)
2 cups celery (1/2 diced)
3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh chopped or dried)
1/2 teaspoon sage (fresh chopped or dried)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups chicken broth
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:

Add Fruits or Nuts: Toss in some chopped apples or walnuts for an added crunch and sweetness.
Use Different Bread: Experiment with different types of bread like cornbread or whole wheat for unique flavors.
Incorporate Vegetables: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Make it Vegetarian: Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth to create a meat-free version that’s just as tasty.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your bread into cubes if you haven’t done so already. Let them sit out overnight or toast them lightly in the oven until they’re dry. This step helps achieve that perfect chewy texture we all love!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Add in the diced onions and celery, cooking until they’re soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delicious base for our stuffing.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and spices. Pour in the chicken broth gradually until everything is moistened but not soggy. Gently fold in beaten eggs; they help bind everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Transfer your stuffing 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 and let it bake another 30 minutes until it’s golden brown on top—a tantalizing sight that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!

With these simple steps, you’ll have Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing ready to join your feast! Enjoy each delicious bite surrounded by loved ones—it truly makes every occasion special.

Pro Tips for Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Creating the perfect stuffing can take your Thanksgiving dinner to the next level, and these pro tips will help you make it just like Grandma did!

Choose the right bread: Using a mix of breads like sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options will add depth and character to your stuffing. Each type brings its own flavor and texture, making every bite unique.
Let the bread dry out: For best results, leave your bread cubes out overnight to become stale. This will help them absorb more broth without turning mushy, giving you that ideal chewy texture.
Sauté your vegetables: Cooking the onions and celery in butter before adding them to the mix enhances their flavors. This step brings out their sweetness and allows them to soften perfectly, creating a harmonious blend in your stuffing.
Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to play around with different herbs! Adding rosemary or parsley can give a fresh twist to your stuffing and elevate its overall taste profile.
Add extra moisture if needed: If you notice your stuffing seems too dry before baking, drizzle in a little extra broth. This ensures that every bite is moist and full of flavor without being overly soggy.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Serving Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas to make this classic dish shine on your holiday table!

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
Sautéed mushrooms: Adding some sautéed mushrooms on top can provide an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients in the stuffing.

Side Dishes

Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little veggies add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the stuffing. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for maximum flavor.
Green bean casserole: This creamy classic is a favorite at many Thanksgiving tables. Its rich flavors complement the savory notes of the stuffing while providing a comforting side.
Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a sweet contrast to the savory stuffing. The bright acidity cuts through richness, enhancing each bite’s flavor profile.
Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit! Their smooth texture pairs nicely with the stuffing, especially when topped with gravy for those who enjoy an indulgent touch.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving feast featuring Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is sure to be a memorable one! Enjoy every moment spent with loved ones around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones on the big day. You can prepare it in advance, making your Thanksgiving stress-free and full of joy.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Portion the stuffing into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that many may have about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe.

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for each egg in this recipe.

How long can I store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them to enjoy later!

What can I use instead of chicken broth in Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

You can use vegetable broth or a homemade broth made from simmered vegetables to keep it flavorful and vegetarian-friendly.

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

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate nuts, dried fruits, or your favorite herbs and spices to personalize this stuffing recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a warm embrace of tradition and love that brings everyone together. I hope you enjoy making this delightful stuffing and that it becomes a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and laughter!