Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Why Make This Recipe

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and food. One iconic dish that graces almost every Thanksgiving table is stuffing. Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is a cherished recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the festive feast. The unique blend of flavors and textures in this stuffing recipe makes it stand out from the rest. It’s not just about filling the turkey; it’s about creating an unforgettable taste experience that everyone at the table will love.

The use of sourdough or French bread gives the stuffing a wonderful texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the traditional roasted turkey. The aromatic combination of sautéed onions, celery, and fresh herbs adds a delightful depth that enhances the entire meal. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes and enjoy the company of your loved ones during the holiday.

Moreover, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is versatile. It can be served as a side dish for turkey or chicken, or even enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian option. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your holiday traditions, just as it has in many homes for generations.

How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create a warm and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients

• 10 cups cubed sourdough or French bread
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 cups finely chopped celery (about 3-4 stalks)
• 2 tbsp sage, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium broth (chicken or vegetable)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by cubing the bread into bite-sized pieces. Spread them out on a baking sheet or in a large bowl and let them dry out for a few hours or overnight. This helps the bread absorb the flavors without becoming soggy.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté these ingredients until they are softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential as it builds the base flavor for your stuffing.

3. Add Fresh Herbs: Once the onions and celery are tender, add the finely chopped sage, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes. The aroma of the herbs will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a holiday gathering already!

4. Combine with Bread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Use a spatula or large spoon to toss everything together gently. Make sure the bread is evenly coated with the mixture.

5. Pour in Broth: Gradually pour the low-sodium broth over the bread mixture. It’s important to add it slowly and mix as you go until the bread is moist but not soggy. You may not need to use all the broth, so pay attention to the texture.

6. Season: Taste your stuffing mixture and season with salt and pepper as necessary. Remember, the broth might already have some salt, so be careful not to over-season.

7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while baking. Bake for about 30 minutes. After this, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing can be served in various ways. It pairs excellently with a juicy turkey, but it also complements other dishes, such as roast chicken or even vegetarian mains.

For the perfect presentation:

• Serve the stuffing right from the baking dish, garnished with a sprig of fresh herb like rosemary or thyme.
• Offer a side of gravy for drizzling over the stuffing and turkey, enhancing the flavor even more.
• If you have room on the table, consider having additional sides such as cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes to create a hearty meal.

The stuffing is warm, flavorful, and inviting, making it a great conversation starter around the dinner table.

How to Store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

If you have any leftovers, or if you want to prepare this dish in advance, here are some tips on how to store Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the stuffing to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffing. Place the cooled stuffing in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Remember to label the container with the date.

3. Reheating: To reheat, if frozen, thaw the stuffing in the refrigerator overnight. Then, place it in a baking dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can add a little broth if it seems dry.

Tips to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing

1. Bread Choice: While sourdough or French bread is recommended, feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even cornbread, depending on your taste and dietary needs.

2. Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs according to your preference. Some might enjoy adding parsley, oregano, or even a little thyme to change up the flavor profile.

3. Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or garlic. Simply chop them finely and sauté them together with the onion and celery for added flavor complexity.

4. Nuts and Dried Fruits: For an interesting twist, add some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, or even dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, to the stuffing before baking.

5. Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing the day before your Thanksgiving meal. After mixing everything together and moistening it with broth, cover it and store it in the fridge. On the day of the feast, simply transfer it to the baking dish and bake as instructed.

Variation

Aside from the classic version of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, you can make a few variations to suit your family’s tastes:

• Italian-Style Stuffing: Add cooked sausage and Italian seasoning for a heartier dish. Replace sage with basil and thyme with oregano for a different flavor.

• Mexican-Style Stuffing: Mix in some cooked chorizo, black beans, and diced green chilies, and season with cumin and coriander for a deliciously spicy stuffing.

• Vegetarian Stuffing: To keep it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth and load it up with as many veggies as you like.

FAQs

Is it necessary to dry out the bread?
Yes, drying out the bread is essential. It helps the bread absorb the liquid flavors without becoming mushy. You can dry it out overnight or use a low oven to toast it slightly.

Can I make stuffing without baking it inside the turkey?
Absolutely! While traditional stuffing is often cooked inside the turkey, you can bake it separately in a dish, which allows for even cooking and a lovely crispy top.

Can I use pre-packaged stuffing mix instead of bread?
While homemade stuffing is delicious, using a pre-packaged stuffing mix can save time. You can enhance it by adding the sautéed onions, celery, and herbs as in this recipe for improved flavor.

What herbs work best for stuffing?
Sage, thyme, and rosemary are traditional herbs for stuffing, but feel free to experiment with others like parsley or oregano based on your personal preferences.

Can I leave out the celery?
You can leave out the celery if you prefer; however, it adds a nice crunch and flavor. You may want to replace it with another vegetable like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for texture.

This warm and hearty Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing is more than just a side dish – it’s a beloved holiday tradition that brings people together. With its comforting flavors and versatile nature, it is sure to be a hit on your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every bite and the delightful memories it creates!

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