Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is one of those cherished dishes that brings warmth and nostalgia to the holiday table. It’s a simple recipe carried through generations, full of love and fragrant spices. As you gather with family and friends, this stuffing evokes lovely memories of cozy gatherings and hearty laughter. The aroma of baked bread mingling with savory herbs fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to come and share in the meal. This stuffing elicits comforting feelings, transporting you to your childhood with every bite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will undoubtedly become a family favorite, just like it has for many before us.

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Why This Recipe Works

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing has stood the test of time, combining simple ingredients to create a robust and flavorful dish. The use of dry bread cubes ensures a perfect texture, while the mix of herbs offers a savory depth that’s both comforting and nostalgic. This blend results in a stuffing that is light yet satisfying, making it a beloved addition to any Thanksgiving feast.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

This stuffing marries the best of both chewy and moist textures, providing a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors that will transport you back to cozy family gatherings. It’s versatile enough for both traditionalists and those looking to put a personal twist on their Thanksgiving feast. With its appealing aroma and rich flavors, this stuffing can easily steal the spotlight on the holiday table.

Ingredients

• 16 cups dry bread cubes (about 3 large loaves of bread)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups onion, diced (1/2″)
• 2 cups celery, diced (1/2″)
• 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 black pepper
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Dry Bread Cubes

To start, preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into 1/2″ to 3/4″ cube pieces. Lay the cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for about an hour. Stir occasionally until dried thoroughly—this step ensures that your stuffing has the perfect texture. Once done, remove the baking sheet and set the bread cubes aside to cool.

Sautéing Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. As it melts, toss in the diced onion and celery. Cook these vegetables until they become tender and translucent; this usually takes about 8 minutes. Remember to stir frequently to avoid burning the mixture, allowing the sweet, aromatic flavors to develop beautifully.

Mixing in the Seasonings

Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, add the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth (1½ cups) and stir well, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together. After everything is well combined, remove the pot from the heat, letting the mixture rest while it cools slightly.

Incorporating the Eggs

In a small bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them until well-beaten. Now, fold this egg mixture into the sautéed onion and celery. This addition helps bind the stuffing, making it rich and hearty, ensuring each bite is full of flavor and moisture.

Combining the Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the dried bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Carefully pour the fragrant broth and vegetable mixture over the bread. Gently fold all the ingredients together, making sure that the stuffing is moist but avoiding any puddles of liquid. If it seems too dry, don’t hesitate to add up to 1/2 cup more chicken broth until you reach that perfect consistency.

Baking to Perfection

Lightly spray a 9″x13″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the stuffing evenly across the dish, creating a nice, even layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir gently every 15-20 minutes to ensure an even bake, until the top is golden brown and irresistibly crisp.

Garnishing

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle it with chopped fresh parsley. This little touch adds a burst of color and freshness, making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing even more inviting before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful stuffing alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings for a perfect holiday meal. Pair it with cranberry sauce to balance out the savory flavors, and don’t forget the roasted vegetables for a well-rounded plate.

Tips for Success

• For better texture, use day-old bread. It absorbs the broth without becoming mushy.
• Adjust herb quantities based on your flavor preference; if you love sage, feel free to add more!
• Ensure the stuffing stays moist to avoid dryness. It’s crucial for that comforting mouthfeel.

Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding sausage or mushrooms for a hearty twist. These additions can bring new flavors to the table, making your stuffing even more unique. Additionally, if you want to make a vegetarian version, simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

Pairing Ideas

For a balanced holiday plate, pair Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing with cranberry sauce and roasted vegetables. The bright sauce and earthy veggies complement the rich stuffing wonderfully.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead. Just bake it on the day of your Thanksgiving dinner.

2. Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

4. How do I reheat leftover stuffing?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

5. Can I make this stuffing gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with gluten-free bread cubes for a delicious alternative.

With its rich history and simple instructions, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is bound to become a staple in your holiday traditions. The unique blend of flavors and textures will win the hearts of your family and friends, ensuring that the memories of shared meals linger long after the last bite has been savored. Happy cooking!

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