The smell of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing bubbling in the oven is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen before the turkey is even carved. Warm bread cubes soaked with butter and broth, tender vegetables, and fragrant herbs make this stuffing a holiday must-have.
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Why This Grandma’s Stuffing is a Holiday Classic
There’s something timeless about Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing. It’s simple enough to prepare with pantry staples, yet rich in flavor thanks to butter, fresh herbs, and savory broth. The top bakes into a golden crisp layer while the inside stays soft and moist. This dish is also endlessly adaptable. Some families add sausage, others stir in nuts or apples, and it always works. It’s a recipe you can make your own while keeping the traditional heart intact. Serve it next to creamy rosemary garlic mashed potatoes for a holiday plate that feels like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, start with bread cubes, onion, celery, and fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary.
Bread cubes, preferably sourdough or French for sturdiness
Onion, finely diced
Celery, chopped for crunch and flavor
Fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary
Unsalted butter for richness
Chicken or vegetable broth to bring moisture
Salt and pepper to taste
You can swap in gluten-free bread if needed, use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or try plant-based butter to make it vegan.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Bread
Cut your bread into cubes the day before and let them dry out overnight. If you’re short on time, toast them lightly in the oven until crisp.
Sauté the Vegetables
Melt butter in a skillet, then add onion and celery. Cook them until tender and fragrant, about five to seven minutes. Lightly season as you go so the flavors build.
Combine with Herbs and Broth
In a large bowl, add bread cubes, sautéed veggies, and chopped fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper, then slowly pour in warm broth while tossing. You want the bread moist but not soggy.
Bake Until Golden
Spread the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F. Remove the foil and bake another 15 minutes so the top becomes golden and crisp.
Tips for the Best Grandma’s Stuffing
Add enough broth so your Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing stays moist inside with that golden crisp top everyone loves.
Choose good-quality bread with sturdy texture so it holds up well. Always taste the mixture before baking so you can adjust seasoning. Add broth gradually because the bread absorbs more as it cooks. If you want to bring new flavors, stir in sausage, apples, or nuts. For more holiday side ideas, check out these honey glazed carrots and green beans that add color and balance to your table.
Make Ahead, Storage and Reheating
This stuffing can be assembled a day ahead and kept in the fridge. Just bake it fresh on Thanksgiving for best results. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, add a splash of broth and warm in the oven so the texture stays moist with a crisp top.
Serving Suggestions
Grandma’s stuffing is a natural with roasted turkey and gravy, but it also pairs beautifully with chicken or pork. Add a dollop of cranberry sauce and a side of mashed potatoes for the classic holiday plate. For more inspiration, take a peek at the best Thanksgiving recipes where you’ll find plenty of dishes to round out your feast.
FAQ
Can I stuff the turkey with this stuffing
Yes, but it’s safer and crispier when baked separately in a dish.
What bread works best for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Sturdy breads like sourdough or French hold up beautifully, keeping the stuffing moist but not mushy.
Can I make it vegetarian or vegan
Definitely. Use vegetable broth and replace butter with a plant-based option.
How do I keep stuffing from drying out
Add broth slowly, cover during baking, and reheat with a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing is more than a recipe, it’s tradition on the table. With buttery bread, savory herbs, and a golden crust, this dish belongs at every holiday gathering. Make it ahead, bake it fresh, and share it with the people you love most.
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Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients
- Bread cubes preferably day-old or toasted
- Unsalted butter
- Diced onion
- Diced celery
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh sage
- Fresh rosemary
- Fresh thyme
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut bread into cubes and toast in the oven until lightly crisp.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and celery until soft and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix bread cubes, cooked veggies, chopped herbs, broth, and beaten eggs.
- Toss gently to combine without turning mushy.
- Spread the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 45 minutes until golden and crisp on top.