Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Name: Grandma's Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian Bread, cubed and dried overnight; 1 cup Celery, chopped; 1 cup Onion, chopped; 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Dried Sage; 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter; 4 Large Eggs, lightly beaten; 4 cups Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

BY :

Liana

Posted On :

September 24, 2025

DINNER

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without the comforting aroma of Grandma’s stuffing wafting from the oven. This isn’t just any stuffing; it’s a recipe passed down through generations, a culinary tradition that embodies the warmth and love of family gatherings. It’s the perfect blend of savory herbs, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned bread, creating a side dish that’s both classic and unforgettable. This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast to a whole new level. Prepare yourself for a stuffing experience unlike any other, one that will leave you wanting more and perhaps even inspiring you to pass down your own family tradition.

This year, let’s delve into the heart of this beloved recipe, uncovering its secrets and sharing tips to ensure your Thanksgiving stuffing is just as exceptional as Grandma’s. From the careful selection of ingredients to the precise baking technique, we’ll guide you step-by-step, ensuring your stuffing becomes the star of your Thanksgiving table. We’ll even explore variations and answer frequently asked questions, guaranteeing that even first-time bakers can achieve stuffing success. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with flavor, nostalgia, and the joy of creating a Thanksgiving masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of stuffing that evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cozy kitchens filled with the aroma of herbs and roasted turkey. There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe, and here are just a few:

Classic Flavor Combination: The perfect balance of savory herbs – sage, thyme, and parsley – complements the sweetness of the onions and celery, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Perfectly Moist Texture: The secret to perfect stuffing lies in the precise ratio of broth to bread. This recipe guarantees a moist, yet not soggy, texture that is both delightful to eat and visually appealing.
Easy to Customize: While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to add your own favorite ingredients, such as sausage, cranberries, or apples, to create a stuffing that truly reflects your personal preferences. See our tips and variations section for more inspiration!
Make-Ahead Friendly: The bread can be dried ahead of time, and the stuffing can be assembled a day in advance, significantly reducing your Thanksgiving Day stress. Simply bake it fresh on the day of your feast.
Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: This stuffing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters. Its simple yet sophisticated flavors appeal to a wide range of palates, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
Simple and Straightforward: This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for novice cooks. The clear instructions and helpful tips make it easy to achieve perfect results, every time. We break down every step, ensuring success for even the newest Thanksgiving cooks.

Beyond the taste and ease, this recipe offers a connection to tradition. It’s a chance to create something special, to carry on a culinary legacy, and to share a piece of your family’s history with those you love. Making this stuffing is an act of love, a labor of love that elevates the entire Thanksgiving experience.

Why You Should Try This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

In a world of countless stuffing recipes, why should you choose this one? The answer is simple: this recipe offers a combination of quality, tradition, and deliciousness that’s hard to match. Here’s why you should give it a try:

Authentic Family Recipe: This isn’t just another recipe found online; it’s a time-tested family recipe, honed over generations to achieve perfection. It’s a taste of history, a connection to your heritage, and a guarantee of deliciousness.
Superior Flavor: The carefully selected herbs and spices create a flavor profile that’s both complex and satisfying. It’s a stuffing that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The combination of herbs creates a truly unique stuffing experience.
Perfect Texture: The secret to delicious stuffing is achieving the perfect texture – moist but not soggy. This recipe guides you through the process, ensuring your stuffing is perfectly balanced and enjoyable.
Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different ingredients, making it a perfect fit for your personal preferences and dietary needs. We’ll explore some tasty variations below.
Stress-Free Thanksgiving: This recipe is designed to minimize stress on Thanksgiving Day. The make-ahead options allow you to prepare much of the stuffing in advance, leaving you with more time to focus on other aspects of your celebration.
Elevates Your Thanksgiving Feast: This stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a centerpiece, a culinary highlight that will elevate your entire Thanksgiving meal. It’s the kind of stuffing that will impress your guests and become a Thanksgiving tradition of its own.

Don’t just take our word for it – try this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe and experience the difference. This is a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come. It’s a Thanksgiving tradition waiting to be made.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is essential for creating the perfect stuffing. Below, we’ve detailed everything you’ll need, ensuring you’re well-prepared for Thanksgiving success.

Ingredients:

1 pound Italian bread, cubed and dried overnight (or toasted in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes): The type of bread is crucial for texture. Italian bread provides the perfect sturdy base. Drying the bread beforehand prevents a soggy stuffing. Day-old bread works perfectly, too. Consider using a bread knife to ensure even cubes.
1 cup chopped celery: Fresh celery adds a crisp texture and subtle sweetness to the stuffing. Use a sharp knife for consistent chopping, aiming for roughly 1/4-inch pieces.
1 cup chopped onion: Yellow onion is traditional, but you could substitute white or even a milder sweet onion. Again, consistent chopping is key.
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley provides a bright, herbaceous note. If fresh parsley isn’t available, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, but remember that dried herbs are stronger than fresh.
1 teaspoon dried sage: Sage is a classic Thanksgiving herb, providing an earthy, slightly peppery flavor. Ensure your sage is fresh; older sage can lose its flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a subtle, warm, slightly lemony flavor that complements the other herbs. This adds a nice depth to your stuffing.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its superior flavor. This will add a nice kick to your stuffing.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust the salt to your preference once the stuffing is cooked.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the stuffing. Use high-quality butter for the best results. You can also use olive oil for a healthier option.
4 large eggs, lightly beaten: The eggs act as a binder, holding the stuffing together. Lightly beating them prevents them from becoming too frothy.
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option): Chicken broth adds a rich flavor, while vegetable broth offers a vegetarian alternative. Low-sodium broth is recommended so you can control the saltiness.

Necessary Utensils:

Large skillet: For sautéing the celery and onions. A non-stick skillet is preferable to prevent sticking.
Large bowl: For combining the bread, vegetables, herbs, and eggs. A sturdy bowl that can handle mixing is essential.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of the ingredients.
Sharp knife: For chopping the celery, onion, and parsley. A chef’s knife is ideal.
Cutting board: A clean cutting board to prevent cross-contamination of flavors.
9×13 inch baking dish or similar sized roasting pan: For baking the stuffing. A greased pan will prevent sticking.
Whisk: For beating the eggs.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the stuffing mixture. A sturdy spoon or spatula will make the process easier.
Aluminum foil (optional): For covering the stuffing if it browns too quickly.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Now, let’s get started with the recipe itself. Follow these steps closely for a perfect, flavorful stuffing.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your stuffing cooks evenly and thoroughly. Make sure your oven is preheated before you begin baking.
Prepare the bread: Cube the Italian bread and dry it overnight, or toast it in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until lightly golden and crisp. This step is crucial for preventing soggy stuffing. Ensure the bread is completely dry before proceeding.
Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t brown the vegetables; just soften them until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cooked celery and onion, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the herbs and spices. You can gently toss to prevent crushing the bread cubes.
Add the eggs: Add the lightly beaten eggs to the bread mixture and stir to combine. The eggs will help bind the stuffing and keep it moist.
Incorporate the broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened. **Do not over-soak.** The mixture should be moist but not soggy. Add the broth slowly to ensure even distribution. If using vegetable broth, do the same steps.
Bake the stuffing: Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized roasting pan. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. **If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.** This prevents burning while ensuring the stuffing is cooked through.
Let it rest: Once baked, let the stuffing stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the stuffing to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. The stuffing will continue to cook slightly as it rests.

Tips and Variations for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe:

Ingredient Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, marjoram, or even a pinch of nutmeg can add unique flavors. For added richness, try incorporating some sautéed mushrooms or chestnuts.
Meat Lovers’ Stuffing: Add 1 pound of cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or ground meat to the stuffing mixture for a heartier dish. Brown the meat before adding it to the other ingredients.
Cranberry-Apple Stuffing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) for a sweet and tart twist. The apples will add moisture, and the cranberries will provide a nice burst of flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes as a substitute for the Italian bread. Ensure the bread is thoroughly dried before use. Gluten-free bread can be drier so you may need slightly more broth.
Vegan Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use vegan butter. Ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it as directed on Thanksgiving Day. This significantly reduces your workload on the day of the feast.
Avoid Soggy Stuffing: Don’t over-soak the bread with broth. Add the broth gradually and check the moisture level before adding more. The stuffing should be moist, not soggy.
Baking Time: Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes and continue baking until golden brown and heated through.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

While stuffing is often considered a decadent side dish, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The precise nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving of this Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe will contain a moderate amount of calories, carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. The nutritional breakdown will likely include:

Carbohydrates: The bread is the primary source of carbohydrates, providing energy. The added vegetables also contribute some fiber.
Protein: If including meat, the protein content will be higher. Eggs also provide a good source of protein.
Fats: Butter is a source of fat, which contributes to the flavor and texture. If using meat, it will add more fat.
Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables, particularly celery and onion, contribute vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
Fiber: Celery and onion, as well as the bread (depending on its type), contribute dietary fiber. Fiber aids digestion and can help with feelings of fullness.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Celery: Low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Onion: A good source of antioxidants and beneficial compounds.
Parsley: Provides vitamin K, vitamin C, and beta-carotene.
Sage: Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Thyme: Known for its potential antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Remember, this is just an estimate. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Enjoy this delicious side dish in moderation as part of a balanced Thanksgiving meal.

FAQs

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffing mixture up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it on Thanksgiving Day as directed in the recipe.

What kind of bread is best for Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

Italian bread works best because of its sturdy texture. Day-old bread is ideal, but you can dry fresh bread overnight or toast it in the oven.

Can I make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, use vegan butter and ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.

How do I prevent Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe from becoming soggy?

Ensure the bread is thoroughly dried before adding the broth. Add the broth gradually, stirring gently, until the bread is evenly moistened but not overly wet. Don’t over-soak.

What are some variations I can try with Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe?

You can add sausage, bacon, cranberries, apples, mushrooms, chestnuts, or other ingredients you enjoy. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices as well!

Conclusion: Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a taste of home, and a guaranteed way to impress your guests. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious, moist, and flavorful stuffing that will be the star of your Thanksgiving table. Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make it your own. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients, combined with love and care, to create something truly special.

We hope you enjoyed this detailed guide to Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe. Now, it’s your turn to create some Thanksgiving magic! Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how your stuffing turned out. Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest! Check out our Pinterest page for more inspiration! And if you’re looking for other delicious Thanksgiving or Fall recipes, check out our other amazing recipes like our Pumpkin Pancakes or Creamy Pumpkin Ravioli.