This timeless Thanksgiving stuffing brings together the comforting flavors of soft bread, buttery vegetables, and fragrant herbs for a dish that defines the holiday table. Whether baked to perfection with a golden crust or served fresh from the oven, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Customize the stuffing to your heart’s desire—add a touch of sweetness with dried cranberries or almonds, or keep it classic and savory. Perfect for pairing with turkey, gravy, and all your favorite sides, this stuffing is a must-have for any festive feast.
Full Recipe:
- 16 cups dry bread cubes (homemade or store-bought, about 3 large loaves)
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups onion, diced (½-inch pieces)
- 2 cups celery, diced (½-inch pieces)
- 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon thyme (fresh chopped or dried)
- ½ teaspoon sage (fresh chopped or dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1½–3 cups chicken broth (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, fresh chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onions and celery, stirring frequently, and cook until tender and translucent (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and 1½ cups of chicken broth. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs until well combined.
- Place dry bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the broth mixture over the bread and gently fold to combine. The stuffing should be moist but not overly wet—add up to ½ cup of additional broth if needed.
- Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the dish.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, gently stirring every 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Kcal: 769 kcal Servings: 15 servings
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing: A Timeless Holiday Classic
Thanksgiving is a time for tradition, gratitude, and, of course, a table brimming with delicious food. Among the most cherished staples of this festive season is Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, a dish that has stood the test of time for generations. Known for its perfectly balanced texture—crispy on the outside and moist inside—this stuffing is the epitome of comfort food and an essential companion to turkey and gravy on your holiday table.
The History of Thanksgiving Stuffing
Stuffing, or “dressing,” as it is sometimes called, has a history that dates back centuries. Early iterations of the dish can be traced to Ancient Rome, where seasoned bread and other ingredients were used to stuff poultry. Over time, this culinary concept evolved across cultures, becoming a cherished tradition in American Thanksgiving celebrations.
In many families, recipes like Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing are passed down through generations, with each household adding its unique twist. This particular recipe stays true to its roots, combining classic flavors with a touch of modern ease to suit today’s busy cooks.
Why Grandma’s Stuffing Stands Out
What makes this stuffing so special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttery richness of the sautéed onions and celery, the earthy aroma of thyme and sage, and the soft, chewy bread create a harmonious medley of tastes. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means it can easily adapt to various dietary needs and flavor profiles. Whether you want to make it vegetarian with vegetable stock or add a touch of sweetness with dried cranberries or apples, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is a true crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stuffing
Creating the ideal stuffing is an art that combines the right ingredients, techniques, and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a showstopper:
- Choose the Right Bread: The type of bread you use can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your stuffing. Opt for bakery-fresh loaves like sourdough, French bread, or wheat bread. Avoid pre-sliced sandwich bread, which tends to be overly moist.
- Dry the Bread Properly: Dry bread absorbs the seasonings and broth more effectively. If making your own dried bread cubes, ensure they are evenly toasted and completely dry to prevent a soggy stuffing.
- Balance the Moisture: The goal is to create a moist stuffing without excess liquid pooling in the dish. Start with the recommended amount of broth and add more gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh thyme, sage, and parsley elevate the flavor profile of the stuffing, making it aromatic and savory. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried versions work well in a pinch.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to personalize the recipe with additional ingredients like sausage, chestnuts, or nuts for a savory twist, or apples and dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
The Role of Stuffing in Holiday Traditions
Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a symbol of togetherness and family heritage. Every forkful carries the memories of holidays past—laughter around the table, the aroma of roasted turkey filling the house, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is a nostalgic nod to these cherished moments, making it an indispensable part of any festive celebration.
Pairing Stuffing with Other Dishes
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a variety of side dishes to complement the main course. Stuffing pairs beautifully with classics like mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables. Its savory flavors also balance well with a juicy roasted turkey or herb-infused turkey breast.
For smaller gatherings, consider serving the stuffing alongside alternatives like baked ham or roasted chicken. The dish’s versatility ensures it can accompany any centerpiece protein, making it a valuable addition to your holiday menu.
Common Questions About Thanksgiving Stuffing
How much stuffing should I make per person?
A general rule of thumb is to plan for about 1 cup of stuffing per person for a regular meal or 1½ cups for Thanksgiving, where portions tend to be more generous. This recipe makes enough for approximately 15 people, making it ideal for large family gatherings.
Can I make stuffing in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day or two before Thanksgiving and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. Prepping in advance can save valuable time on the day of your celebration.
What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, stuffing typically refers to a mixture cooked inside the turkey, while dressing is baked separately in a dish. For safety reasons, this recipe is designed as a dressing to ensure even cooking and prevent foodborne illnesses.
Variations to Try
- Sausage and Apple Stuffing: Add cooked sausage and diced apples to the mixture for a sweet and savory twist.
- Cornbread Stuffing: Substitute cornbread for traditional bread cubes to create a Southern-inspired variation.
- Nutty Stuffing: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor depth.
- Vegetarian Stuffing: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Leftovers: A Delicious Bonus
Stuffing leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving. They can be reheated and served as-is, or repurposed into creative dishes like stuffing-stuffed bell peppers, savory breakfast casseroles, or even crispy stuffing patties fried in a skillet. With a little imagination, this dish can continue to delight well beyond the holiday meal.
The Significance of Homemade Recipes
In today’s fast-paced world, recipes like Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing remind us of the importance of slowing down and savoring the simple pleasures of life. The act of preparing this dish, with its rich history and time-honored techniques, becomes a way to connect with family, honor tradition, and create lasting memories.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is more than just a dish—it’s a centerpiece of holiday tradition, a labor of love, and a delicious way to bring people together. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or put your own spin on it, this classic stuffing will undoubtedly earn a place of honor on your Thanksgiving table. Its savory flavors, customizable options, and nostalgic charm make it a must-have for any festive occasion, ensuring that it will continue to be a beloved recipe for generations to come.
Print
Grandma’s Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Description
This timeless Thanksgiving stuffing brings together the comforting flavors of soft bread, buttery vegetables, and fragrant herbs for a dish that defines the holiday table. Whether baked to perfection with a golden crust or served fresh from the oven, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Customize the stuffing to your heart’s desire—add a touch of sweetness with dried cranberries or almonds, or keep it classic and savory. Perfect for pairing with turkey, gravy, and all your favorite sides, this stuffing is a must-have for any festive feast.
Ingredients
- 16 cups dry bread cubes (homemade or store-bought, about 3 large loaves)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups onion, diced (1/2-inch pieces)
- 2 cups celery, diced (1/2-inch pieces)
- 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 ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2–3 cups chicken broth (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, fresh chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onions and celery, stirring frequently, and cook until tender and translucent (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and 1½ cups of chicken broth. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggs until well combined.
- Place dry bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Pour the broth mixture over the bread and gently fold to combine. The stuffing should be moist but not overly wet—add up to ½ cup of additional broth if needed.
- Spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing mixture evenly in the dish.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, gently stirring every 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour