Created on November 11th, 2025 at 02:50 pm
A comforting side dish that warms the home
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and the aroma of comforting flavors wafting through the house. Among the dishes that grace the holiday table, grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing stands out as a beloved classic that brings everyone together. This stuffing features a delightful combination of crusty bread, savory herbs, and the subtle sweetness of sautéed onions and celery. The golden-brown edges provide a satisfying texture, while the moist interior envelops each bite in warmth. As it cooks, the fragrance of herbs and broth fills the kitchen, inviting guests to gather around and reminisce. It embodies the essence of cozy family gatherings with its timeless charm and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something undeniably magical about a well-prepared stuffing. Each bite of grandma’s recipe offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor, combining the crispy bits with the soft, herbaceous interior. The blending of sage, thyme, and rosemary not only enhances the stuffing’s aroma but also deepens its flavor, making it a delightful partner for turkey or as a standalone side. This recipe is uncomplicated, allowing the ingredients to shine without fuss, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. What’s more, it tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and develop. Whether served alongside the Thanksgiving feast or reimagined in a sandwich, this stuffing is sure to be a staple in your home.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients List
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (about 1 pound), diced into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries or nuts for added texture
Kitchen Tools
Preparing this special stuffing involves only a few essential tools, making the process enjoyable without unnecessary hassle. With a sturdy knife and cutting board, you will easily chop the vegetables and bread. A large mixing bowl is perfect for combining all the ingredients. The dish can be baked in an oven-safe casserole dish, ensuring even cooking.
- Large mixing bowl
- Casserole dish (3-quart)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets up a perfect environment for golden-brown stuffing.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until they are tender and fragrant. The aroma will begin to envelop your kitchen.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to soften without browning. This will bring out its natural sweetness.
- Toss the diced bread into a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetables over the bread and add the chopped herbs. Mix gently to combine, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors.
- Gradually pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary to ensure a delicious flavor.
- Transfer the stuffing to a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma as it bakes.
- Once done, let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. This will make your dish more cohesive and flavorful.
Pro Tips
- Use day-old bread for a sturdier texture that holds up during mixing.
- A combination of herbs like parsley and thyme can brighten the flavor profile.
- For extra richness, consider adding diced cooked sausage to the vegetable mixture.
- If you prefer a softer stuffing, cover the dish with foil during baking for the first 20 minutes.
- This stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; simply reheat before serving.
Cooking Comfort, Made Simple
Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing recipe brings together the heartwarming flavors and aromas that define family traditions. With its satisfying texture and depth of flavor, this dish nurtures both body and soul. It celebrates the art of simple cooking, proving that even the most cherished dishes can be effortless. Gather around the table, relish in the company of loved ones, and enjoy this comfort food at its best. This dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.
Nutrition table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Delicious Grandma’s Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf 1 loaf of crusty bread (about 1 pound), diced into 1-inch cubes Use day-old bread for better texture.
- 0.5 cup ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) Melted for sautéing vegetables.
- 1 medium 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 3 stalks 3 stalks celery, diced Provides crunch and flavor.
- 3–4 cloves 3–4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor without overpowering.
- 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried) Adds earthiness.
- 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried) Enhances aroma and flavor.
- 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried) Brings out delightful herbal notes.
- 2 cups 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth Moistens the stuffing without being too salty.
- to taste Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust according to preference.
- 0.5 cup Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries or nuts for added texture Enhances flavor and texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced bread and pour the sautéed vegetables over it. Add the chopped herbs and mix gently.
- Gradually pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the stuffing to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
Cooking
- Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
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