Thanksgiving isn’t complete without a cozy, flavorful stuffing on the table, and Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing hits all the right notes. With its warm, savory aroma and soft, buttery texture, this recipe is perfect for bringing family together. The best part? It’s easy to make, packed with simple pantry ingredients, and has that classic, comforting flavor everyone loves. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this stuffing will steal the show at your holiday feast.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dinner / Holiday Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 8 servings |
| Calories | ~320 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 loaf (about 12 cups) of day-old bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or ghee)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried sage)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Optional: 1 cup diced apples or 1/2 cup dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter.
- Toast the bread cubes: Spread cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden. Set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, sage, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine bread and veggies: In a large mixing bowl, add toasted bread cubes and sautéed vegetables. Toss together.
- Add liquid ingredients: Whisk together broth and eggs, then pour over the bread mixture. Gently toss until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm: Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Bread choice: Use day-old bread for the best texture; slightly stale bread absorbs flavors without becoming mushy.
- Broth adjustment: Add more broth if the stuffing looks dry before baking.
- Herb balance: Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10–15 minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Protein boost: Add diced turkey ham or chicken sausage for extra savory depth.
- Fruity twist: Fold in chopped apples, dried cranberries, or raisins for a sweet-savory version.
- Lighter option: Swap butter for olive oil and use low-sodium vegetable broth to reduce richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole for a classic Thanksgiving plate.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra thyme for a festive look.
- Serve with cranberry sauce on the side for a burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing fresh from the oven. Whether enjoyed with family or friends, this easy, flavorful recipe brings cozy comfort to your holiday table. Take a deep breath, savor the aroma, and dig into a side dish that’s sure to become a tradition.