Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe (30 minutes)
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a hearty stuffing that warms the heart and soul. This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is a comforting dish that captures the essence of holiday gatherings, blending fresh herbs with crusty bread.
Why you’ll love it
This stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors. With its delightful mix of fresh herbs, tender vegetables, and warm bread, this stuffing perfectly complements your Thanksgiving turkey. It’s easy to make, can be made ahead of time, and is versatile enough to please a crowd. Plus, it’s an age-old family recipe that brings back memories and traditions, making it a must-have on your holiday table.
Ingredients
- Bread (sourdough or French): 10 cups, cubed
- Onion: 1 large, finely diced
- Celery: 2 cups, finely chopped (about 3-4 stalks)
- Fresh herbs:
- Sage: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Thyme: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Rosemary: 1 tbsp, finely chopped
- Low-sodium broth: 4 cups (chicken or vegetable)
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted
- Salt and pepper: To taste
Substitutions & key variations
If you want to modify the recipe, there are plenty of options! You can use whole wheat bread or gluten-free bread for a different twist or make it vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil and using vegetable broth. Adding in dried fruits like cranberries or nuts like walnuts can also provide an exciting variation, giving texture and sweetness to the stuffing.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by cubing your bread into small pieces and allowing them to dry out for a few hours or overnight. This helps the stuffing to absorb flavors better.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs
Stir in the fresh herbs and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will help release the oils and flavors from the herbs.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Pour in the broth gradually while mixing until the bread is just moistened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the stuffing into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to get a nice golden top.
Success tips
- Temperature: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for a perfect texture.
- Texture: For a crispy top, uncover the stuffing in the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Common mistakes: Be cautious not to oversaturate the bread with broth. It should be moist, not soupy.
How to serve
This stuffing is best served warm alongside your turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes. Spoon generous portions onto plates, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Storage & reheating
You can store any leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it right before serving.
Can I freeze the stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s completely cooled. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I add to this stuffing?
Feel free to add cooked sausage, dried cranberries, or even nuts to enhance the flavors and textures!
Nutrition notes / equivalents (optional)
This stuffing makes a delicious addition to a balanced meal. Depending on your choices of bread and adding ingredients, it can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences.
Conclusion
This Delicious Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will bring your holiday meal to life with warmth, nostalgia, and mouthwatering flavors. Easy to make and adaptable for all tastes, this recipe is sure to become a staple at your Thanksgiving table. Don’t wait—give it a try this year and delight in the memories it creates!