Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe: The Best Oven-Baked Holiday Side Dish

When the aroma of roasted turkey fills the air, the anticipation of Grandma’s stuffing adds an extra layer of comfort and joy to any Thanksgiving feast. This beloved holiday side dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s wrapped in warmth and nostalgia, performing a dance on your taste buds that takes you straight to family gatherings of years past. If you’re hoping to recreate that cherished experience, keep reading!

Why Make This Recipe

It’s a classic that never fails to impress. Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing has been passed down through generations, capturing the essence of what makes holiday meals special.
Easy to customize, this recipe allows for personal twists while staying true to its traditional roots, making it suitable for any family’s taste.

With its perfect balance of buttery bread, aromatic herbs, and savory broth, it’s no wonder this stuffing has earned its place as a holiday staple.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Crafting Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing is a delightful journey filled with simple steps that yield a rich, flavorful dish. With just a bit of preparation and gathering of ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a holiday masterpiece that everyone will love. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to have everything at hand. For this stuffing, you’ll need:

1 loaf dried white sandwich bread, cubed (about 12 cups)
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups celery, chopped
2 cups onion, chopped
2 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
2 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp ground sage
1 tsp dried thyme
2.5 to 3 cups chicken or turkey broth

With your ingredients ready, you can move on to the actual cooking!

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a moment to grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish to ensure an easy release of your stuffing later.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions and celery. Cook them together until they are softened and fragrant, which should take about 8–10 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavors but fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma that will excite your senses!

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Grab a large bowl and combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Next, add the parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss them gently to ensure even mixing, allowing all the flavors to marry beautifully.

Step 5: Add in the Broth

Now, it’s time for the broth! Slowly pour in 2.5 cups of chicken or turkey broth while stirring. You want the bread to be moist but not soggy, so keep an eye on the consistency. If it seems too dry, gradually add more broth until it reaches your desired texture.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffing

Once fully incorporated, spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover it with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top that promises deliciousness when served.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s baked to perfection, let the stuffing cool slightly before serving. The best part? Enjoying it alongside roasted turkey and all your favorite holiday sides.

Storage Tips for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (although they’re often hard to resist), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: For extended storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

These steps will help keep the stuffing fresh and tasty!

Best Ways to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

When it comes to serving, the classic pairing is certainly a must. However, there are several fun ways to elevate your Thanksgiving experience:

Traditional with Turkey: Serve alongside roast turkey, allowing the flavors of the stuffing to complement the meat beautifully.
As a Standalone Side: For those who prefer to keep it simple, new holiday dishes, like squash or cranberry sauce, pair well with the stuffing by making it the star of the plate.
Stuffed Peppers or Tomatoes: As a creative take, use leftovers to stuff bell peppers or beefy tomatoes for a delightful twist on presentation.

Your guests will be delighted by the diversity of presentations!

Tips to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Use Quality Bread: Opt for a hearty, rustic loaf, as it absorbs flavors better than softer breads.
Fresh Herbs: If you have access to fresh herbs, use them instead of dried for an aromatic boost.
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your mixture before baking! Adjust the seasoning if needed for that perfect balance.

Key Tip

One important tip to remember is to ensure the bread is adequately dried before you start preparing. This helps in achieving that perfect, hearty stuffing rather than a soggy mess.

Variations and Substitutions

While Grandma’s stuffing recipe is tried and true, don’t shy away from making it your own:

Add Fruits or Nuts: For sweetness and crunch, consider adding diced apples or walnuts to the mix.
Different Bread Types: If you prefer a more artisanal flavor, experiment with sourdough or cornbread as a base.

If you want a more savory flavor profile, swap traditional broth with mushroom broth for a vegetarian twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffing up to one day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator unbaked, then heat it in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I use low-sodium broth?

Absolutely, low-sodium broth is a great alternative, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.

Q: How can I add some heat to the stuffing?

For a little kick, try adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mix.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Drying the Bread: Make sure the bread cubes are adequately dried; otherwise, the stuffing could become mushy.
Overcrowded Baking Dish: If your stuffing is too packed, it may not cook evenly. Leave some space for the heat to circulate.
Skipping the Resting Time: Give it a few minutes to cool before serving, allowing flavors to settle.

Nutritional Info

While the exact nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients used, here’s a rough guide per serving (1/2 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g

Remember this is a holiday dish, enjoyed in moderation!

Conclusion

Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition wrapped in love and memories. By following this simple yet effective recipe, you’ll not only create an incredible side dish but also create moments that your family and friends will cherish. Each bite conjures up feelings of warmth and comfort while affording you the delight of coming together during the holiday season. Enjoy the joy it brings to your Thanksgiving table, and may it be a centerpiece of many future family celebrations!

So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let’s make this cherished recipe a part of your holiday celebration. You’ll be grateful you did!

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe