If you’re looking to fill your home with the heartwarming aroma of the holidays, nothing compares to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. This cherished classic brings together simple, comforting ingredients with a harmony of herbs and buttery goodness that makes every bite rich and soulful. Whether you’re seated at a bustling family table or sharing an intimate meal, this stuffing brings nostalgia and festive cheer in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the crisp bread cubes providing a tender, textured base to the fragrant herbs that infuse the dish with seasonal warmth. These essentials ensure every forkful is packed with flavor, moisture, and a touch of tradition.
- Day-old white or sourdough bread (1 loaf, 16 oz): Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the broth perfectly without turning mushy.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup): Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables for a luscious blend.
- Large onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and depth, balancing the herbs beautifully.
- Celery stalks (3, finely chopped): Provides a subtle crunch and fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): A small punch of savory warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, tying everything together seamlessly.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild heat to lift the seasoning without overpowering.
- Dried sage (1½ teaspoons): A classic Thanksgiving herb that adds an earthy, woodsy aroma.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Contributes a delicate herbal note that complements the sage.
- Poultry seasoning (½ teaspoon): The secret blend that brings traditional holiday vibes to every bite.
- Chicken or turkey broth (2½–3 cups): Keeps the stuffing moist with savory depth from the stock.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Helps bind ingredients for the perfect hold and texture.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): For a pop of bright color and freshness when serving.
How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Bread Cubes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This step is essential because it gives the bread a slightly crisp exterior that will soak up flavors without turning into a soggy mess. Once toasted, transfer the cubes to a large mixing bowl ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Herbs
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion and celery. Cook these gently for about seven to eight minutes until they soften and release their sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic along with salt, pepper, dried sage, thyme, and poultry seasoning. Let everything cook together for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld, then remove the skillet from heat. This fragrant mixture is the heart of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe and sets the tone for the whole dish.
Step 3: Combine and Moisten the Mixture
Pour your buttery vegetable and herb mixture over the toasted bread cubes. Add the beaten eggs and two and a half cups of chicken or turkey broth. Gently fold everything together to ensure each cube is evenly coated. The texture should be soft but not soggy, so if it feels too dry, add a little more broth a splash at a time. This careful balance is what makes Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe so wonderfully moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown. This final step creates a pleasant contrast between the tender interior and that tantalizingly crisp surface so many of us crave in stuffing. If you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for an inviting pop of color.
How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens up the plate and adds a touch of freshness that balances the rich, buttery stuffing beautifully. For an extra festive feel, you can also scatter a few toasted pecans or dried cranberries on top for added texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with classic Thanksgiving mains like roast turkey or baked ham. It also shines alongside green bean casserole, roasted root vegetables, or even a crisp autumn salad. The versatility of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe means it complements nearly any hearty, comforting side.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Try serving this stuffing in small, individual ramekins or hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a charming presentation. You can also use it as a flavorful stuffing for roasted acorn squash or chicken breasts, infusing holiday spirit into every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffing keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you’ll have comforting bites ready for easy meals after the feast.
Freezing
If you want to prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe well in advance, freezing is a great option. After baking and cooling completely, place the stuffing in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a taste that’s just as lovely as fresh.
Reheating
To bring leftover stuffing back to life, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout. For a crispier top, remove the foil in the last few minutes of baking. Microwave reheating works too, just keep an eye to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free bread in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free bread, but keep in mind the texture and absorption might be slightly different. Whole wheat adds a nuttier flavor, while gluten-free bread may need a bit more broth to soften properly.
Is it possible to make this stuffing vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken or turkey broth for a rich vegetable broth, and you’ll have a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as flavorful and comforting.
How far in advance can I prepare this stuffing?
You can assemble the stuffing a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for the best texture and flavor.
Can I add other ingredients like sausage or fruit?
Definitely! Adding cooked sausage, diced apples, or dried cranberries are popular twists that add extra layers of flavor and texture, making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe even more special.
What’s the best way to get a crispy top on my stuffing?
Baking covered at first locks in moisture, but removing the foil for the last 15 to 20 minutes lets the top brown and crisp delightfully. A quick broil at the end can also enhance the crust—just watch it closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe that goes beyond ingredients — it’s the loving tradition and warm memories that make every forkful a celebration. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your own holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it holds such a cherished place in so many hearts and homes.
Print
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is a classic American holiday side dish featuring toasted bread cubes combined with a flavorful mix of butter, sautéed onions, celery, aromatic herbs, and broth. Baked until golden and moist, this traditional stuffing recipe brings comforting and savory flavors to your festive table, with an optional fresh parsley garnish for a burst of color.
Ingredients
Stuffing Base
- 1 loaf (16 oz) day-old white or sourdough bread, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 2½–3 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10–15 minutes until they are lightly crisp. Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté Vegetables and Seasonings: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook for 7–8 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried sage, dried thyme, and poultry seasoning. Continue cooking for 1–2 more minutes to release the aromas, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine Mixture: Pour the butter and vegetable mixture over the toasted bread cubes. Add the beaten eggs and 2½ cups of broth to the bowl. Gently stir to evenly moisten the bread. If the mixture appears dry, gradually add more broth until the texture is soft but not soggy.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the combined stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving warm as a comforting and flavorful side dish for Thanksgiving or other festive meals.
Notes
- You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it; just bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- For a twist on the classic, add cooked sausage, diced apples, or dried cranberries to the mixture before baking to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use day-old bread for better texture, as fresh bread can become too soggy.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially if using low-sodium broth.
