The moment the holidays approach, I can almost hear the echo of laughter and the clinking of silverware as family gathers around the table. Among the comforting scents that fill the air, it’s my Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing that tugs at my heartstrings the most. The nutty aroma of toasted bread, mingled with the warmth of buttery onions and the earthy fragrance of herbs, takes me back to those unforgettable feasts that together defined family love.
One chilly November afternoon, while reminiscing about those cherished meals, I decided to recreate my Grandma’s beloved stuffing—and let me tell you, it didn’t take long to realize how easy it was to bring that magic into my own kitchen. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor, but it also highlights the beauty of homemade cooking, bringing a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish to your holiday table that can transform your festive spread.
So, whether you’re preparing for a grand gathering or just craving a taste of nostalgia, join me as we whip up a batch of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
Why is Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing special?
Nostalgic flavors: This recipe brings the cherished tastes of Grandma’s kitchen right to your dining table.
Easy preparation: With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a delicious dish to impress family and friends.
Savory aroma: The delightful mix of herbs and sautéed vegetables fills your home with mouthwatering scents that evoke warm, holiday memories.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a sure hit that complements any meal, making it the star of your Thanksgiving table.
Versatile base: Feel free to customize with your favorite additions, like sausage or nuts, for a personal touch.
Get ready to celebrate the comfort of home-cooked love!
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Ingredients
• Gather these delightful ingredients for a heartwarming dish!
For the Bread Base
- 16 cups dry bread cubes – Use a mix of your favorite breads for added flavor and texture.
For the Seasoning
- 1/2 cup butter – This is the magic ingredient that adds richness and depth.
- 2 cups onion, 1/2″ diced – Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the stuffing’s flavor.
- 2 cups celery, 1/2″ diced – Adds a delightful crunch and a fresh taste to balance the richness.
- 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning – A must-have for that classic Thanksgiving flavor!
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme, fresh chopped or dried – Offers a warm, earthy undertone that pairs beautifully with the stuffing.
- 1/2 teaspoon sage, fresh chopped or dried – The aromatic essence that makes it truly memorable.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors, bringing the dish to life.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of spice keeps the palate lively.
For the Binding
- 1½ cups chicken broth – Use homemade for the best flavor, ensuring your stuffing stays moist.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind all the ingredients together, making each bite deliciously cohesive.
For the Garnish
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving.
May this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing warm your heart and fill your home with love!
How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
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Preheat your oven to 250°F. This low temperature will help dry out the bread cubes perfectly.
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Cube the bread into 1/2″ to 3/4″ pieces and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 1 hour, tossing occasionally, until they’re completely dry.
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Set aside the toasted bread once it’s done. It should feel light and crunchy to the touch.
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Increase your oven temperature to 350°F, preparing it for the stuffing’s final bake.
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Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for about 8 minutes, until they’re tender and translucent.
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Stir in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well and remove from heat to let those flavors develop.
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Whisk the eggs in a small bowl and add them to the onion mixture, combining everything together for a creamy texture.
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Combine the dried bread cubes with the broth-onion mixture in a large bowl. Gently fold them together, adding more chicken broth if needed, to ensure a moist stuffing.
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Prepare a 9″ x 13″ baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the bottom.
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Bake for 45-60 minutes in the preheated oven, stirring gently every 15-20 minutes. Look for a lightly golden brown top as your signal it’s ready.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley right after taking the stuffing out of the oven; it adds a lovely touch before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing?
The perfect meal is just a few delicious sides away from bringing you back to those cherished family gatherings.
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Roasted Turkey: Juicy and tender turkey is a classic pairing, its rich flavor complements the savory herbs in the stuffing beautifully.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy-sweet sauce adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the flavors of the stuffing and wonderfully enhancing each bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes create a comforting balance with the stuffing’s heartiness, perfect for cozy spoonfuls.
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Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans topped with crispy almonds provide a crunchy, vibrant contrast, adding texture and brightness to your plate.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots bring a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savory stuffing, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Gravy: A rich, savory gravy drizzled over both the turkey and stuffing ties everything together with warm, comforting goodness, making each bite irresistible.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of spiced pumpkin pie, its creamy filling is the perfect way to continue the holiday cheer.
Expert Tips for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
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Bread Matters: Choose a mix of hearty and soft breads for varied texture. Avoid plain white bread, as it lacks flavor, making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing less memorable.
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Perfectly Dry: Ensure your bread is fully dried out to prevent soggy stuffing. Toss it periodically while baking to achieve even dryness.
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Sauté Wisely: Cook onions and celery until translucent; this builds a sweet flavor base. Undercooking can lead to crunchy chunks in your stuffing.
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Taste Test: Before baking, taste your mix and adjust seasonings as needed. Stuffing should be well-seasoned since it absorbs flavors during baking.
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Moisture Control: If the mixture feels dry, gradually add chicken broth. You want a moist but not soupy consistency for ideal Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing.
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Baking Minutes: Keep an eye on color while baking. Stirring throughout helps achieve an evenly golden top, ensuring a perfect texture.
How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
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Room Temperature: Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing can be left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate or freeze to prevent spoilage.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Bake at 350°F covered with foil to retain moisture for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated throughout.
Make Ahead Options
These Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the dry bread cubes and sauté the onions and celery up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the bread cubes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy. For the onion mixture, cool it completely before refrigerating in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, mix the bread cubes with the refrigerated onion mixture, eggs, and chicken broth, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious stuffing with minimal last-minute effort, making your holiday meal both delightful and stress-free!
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this beloved classic, bringing a touch of your taste to every bite!
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Herb-Infused: Swap out the poultry seasoning for a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley for a garden-fresh flavor. Their bright notes bring a delightful twist that will excite your palate.
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Sausage Add-In: Brown some sausage in the pot before adding your veggies for a meaty richness. It creates a savory stuffing that’s hearty and sure to satisfy.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the eggs for a vegetarian version that still feels indulgent. It’s deliciously satisfying while embracing plant-based goodness!
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Fruit & Nut Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or diced apples and toasted pecans for a sweet and crunchy element. This adds a lovely texture and a hint of fall sweetness to each mouthful.
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Spicy Kick: Dice up jalapeños or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy version. This variation offers a surprising and delightful heat, perfect for those who love to turn up the flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes to accommodate dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this classic dish. With the right herbs and seasonings, no one will miss the gluten!
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Creamy Texture: Add a half cup of cream cheese to the broth mixture for a richer, creamier stuffing. This twist adds indulgent creaminess, making each bite utterly irresistible.
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Crispy Topping: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust. The crunchy exterior adds amazing texture and flavor that elevates the entire dish!
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe FAQs
What type of bread should I use for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing?
Absolutely! Using a mix of hearty and soft breads is key. I recommend opting for rustic sourdough or whole grain alongside softer breads like brioche. Avoid plain white bread, as it lacks flavor and won’t give you the unforgettable taste that Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is known for.
How should I store leftovers of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve it again, just reheat in the oven or microwave. Keep in mind, if properly sealed, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing? How?
Absolutely, you can freeze it! Just ensure you’ve packed the stuffing in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. I suggest freezing it in portion sizes so you can reheat only what you need in the future—this makes it super convenient for last-minute meals!
What should I do if my stuffing turns out too dry?
No worries at all! If your stuffing ends up dry, you can easily rescue it. Simply add a few tablespoons of chicken broth, a little at a time, and gently fold the mixture until it’s moist but not soggy. You can also place a damp paper towel over it when reheating to help retain moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be sure to check that all ingredients are safe for them. Gluten-free bread works wonderfully if you’re accommodating gluten sensitivities. Always ensure any broth or seasoning blends are free from allergens too! Also, do keep the stuffing out of reach from pets, as certain herbs can be harmful to them.
How can I add my own twist to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing?
The more the merrier! You can customize Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing by adding cooked sausage or diced apples for a sweet twist. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans will add a delightful crunch, while fresh herbs like rosemary or chives can elevate the flavor profile. Adding these ingredients during the mixing step allows them to blend beautifully with the classic recipe!
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing: A Touch of Love in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 250°F. This low temperature will help dry out the bread cubes perfectly.
- Cube the bread into 1/2" to 3/4" pieces and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for about 1 hour, tossing occasionally, until they’re completely dry.
- Set aside the toasted bread once it's done. It should feel light and crunchy to the touch.
- Increase your oven temperature to 350°F, preparing it for the stuffing’s final bake.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking for about 8 minutes, until they're tender and translucent.
- Stir in the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well and remove from heat to let those flavors develop.
- Whisk the eggs in a small bowl and add them to the onion mixture, combining everything together for a creamy texture.
- Combine the dried bread cubes with the broth-onion mixture in a large bowl. Gently fold them together, adding more chicken broth if needed, to ensure a moist stuffing.
- Prepare a 9" x 13" baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes in the preheated oven, stirring gently every 15-20 minutes. Look for a lightly golden brown top as your signal it’s ready.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley right after taking the stuffing out of the oven; it adds a lovely touch before serving.