Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food! One of the most loved dishes during this holiday is Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing. This recipe brings warmth and flavor to the table, making it a perfect side dish that complements your turkey and other festive favorites. With its rich herbs and toasted bread, this stuffing is bound to become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving tradition.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, using simple ingredients that are often found in your kitchen. This recipe brings back the comforting tastes of childhood, reminding you of family gatherings and special moments. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, saving you precious moments on the big day. This stuffing adds an irresistible element to your holiday feast, guaranteeing it will be a hit with all your guests!

How to prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Creating this delightful stuffing is straightforward. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

10 cups cubed bread (sourdough or French)
1 large onion, finely diced
2 cups celery, finely chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
2 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
4 cups low-sodium broth (chicken or vegetable)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted and dried out.
In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the diced onion, chopped celery, and chopped fresh herbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, broth, salt, and pepper.
Pour the broth mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the bread cubes are moistened.
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serve hot.

How to serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

This stuffing is best served hot, right out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce. You can also serve it as a side to roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Feel free to place it in the center of the table as a family-style dish, allowing everyone to scoop their own portion!

How to store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing perfectly

Use day-old bread: Stale bread works best for stuffing as it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy.
Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs are key to enhancing the flavor of your stuffing. Feel free to mix and match your favorites!
Taste test: Before baking, taste the mixture to adjust the seasoning of salt and pepper.

Variations

Add sausage: For a heartier stuffing, include cooked sausage in the mixture.
Nuts and dried fruits: Add some chopped pecans or dried cranberries for a sweet and crunchy twist.
Gluten-free option: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a delicious alternative.

FAQ

Q: Can I prepare this stuffing in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it just before serving.

Q: Can I use different types of bread?
A: Absolutely! French, sourdough, or even whole grain bread work well.

Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
A: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set!

Now you’re ready to create Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing! Enjoy every bite and the special moments around the table with your loved ones this holiday season.