Grandmas Thanksgiving Stuffing

Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, cozy celebrations, and hearty meals. Among the many traditional dishes served during the holidays, stuffing holds a special place in our hearts. Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing recipe is one of those beloved traditions that brings warmth, comfort, and smiles to the table. Passed down through generations, this recipe never fails to impress. Whether you are hosting your first Thanksgiving or simply looking for a new family favorite, Grandma’s stuffing is sure to be a hit.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Here’s what you will need:

• 1 loaf of day-old bread, cut into cubes
• 1 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cups of celery, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh sage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Prep Time

Preparing Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing is both simple and enjoyable. Begin by cutting the day-old bread into small, bite-sized cubes. This step works best if the bread has had time to dry out a little. Next, finely dice the onion and chop the celery. Put your fresh sage and thyme aside, ready for use. Once your ingredients are prepped and measured, you’ll be ready to jump into the cooking process.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Grandma’s stuffing recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 45 minutes to bake, giving a total working and cooking time of approximately 1 hour. The recipe serves 8 to 10 people, making it perfect for a medium-sized family gathering or an intimate Thanksgiving dinner.

Gather your ingredients, prepare your oven, and savor the comforting aroma that will soon fill your kitchen as the stuffing bakes to perfection. Each bite will deliver the delightful mix of crunch and flavor, capturing the essence of the holiday season while honoring the timeless love of Grandma’s cooking.
“`html

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut the bread into small cubes and allow them to dry overnight or toast them in the oven at a low temperature until they are slightly crispy but not browned.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, add diced onions and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the celery is tender.

Step 3: Mix the Herbs

Add chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme) to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Stir to combine and let cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Broth

Warm up the chicken or vegetable broth in a saucepan or microwave. This will make it easier to combine with the bread mixture later.

Step 5: Combine Bread and Vegetables

Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetables and herbs over the bread cubes and toss until evenly mixed.

Step 6: Add the Broth

Gradually add the warm broth to the bread mixture, one ladleful at a time, while gently stirring. Continue adding broth until the bread is moist but not overly soggy. The amount of broth needed may vary, so adjust accordingly.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 8: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish, pressing it down slightly to create an even layer.

Step 9: Bake the Stuffing

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.

Notes

Note 1: Bread Options

You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as white, wheat, sourdough, or a mix. Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the liquid more effectively.

Note 2: Herb Variation

Feel free to adjust the herbs based on what you have available or your personal preferences. Dried herbs can be substituted for fresh herbs, but use smaller quantities as they have a more concentrated flavor.

Note 3: Adding Meat

For a heartier stuffing, you can add cooked sausage, bacon, or even diced cooked turkey to the mixture before baking.

Note 4: Making Ahead

The stuffing can be prepared a day ahead. Store uncooked stuffing in the refrigerator, covered tightly, and bake just before serving.

Note 5: For a Softer Texture

If you prefer a softer stuffing, keep it covered with foil during the entire baking process instead of uncovering it halfway through.
“`

Cook Techniques

Sautéing the Aromatics

Cooking down onions, celery, and other aromatics in butter or oil ensures they release their flavors and soften for the stuffing mixture, giving a rich depth to the recipe.

Baking the Stuffing in Two Steps

Starting with the stuffing covered and removing the cover towards the end allows it to stay moist while developing a crisp, golden top layer.

Choosing the Right Bread

Using stale or toasted bread cubes ensures they absorb the liquid mixture effectively without turning mushy.

Balancing Seasonings

Taste your seasoning mix and adjust as needed before combining with the rest of the ingredients to ensure a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread for the stuffing?

It’s best to use stale or day-old bread as it absorbs the liquid mixture better. If using fresh bread, toast it in the oven to dry it out before proceeding.

What’s the best type of bread to use for stuffing?

Any hearty, unsliced bread like sourdough, country loaf, or even cornbread works well for stuffing, depending on your preference.

How do I make the stuffing vegetarian?

Replace any meat-based broth with vegetable broth and omit any sausage or meat from the recipe.

How can I keep the stuffing moist?

Ensure you use enough broth to moisten the stuffing, and cover the dish while baking for the majority of the time to lock in moisture.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the stuffing and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Bake it just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe is a timeless dish that brings flavors and family together during the holiday season. Its hearty and comforting essence makes it a standout side for any Thanksgiving table. With the perfect balance of textures and aromatics, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite, cherished and passed down through generations.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Mashed Potatoes

Pair your Thanksgiving stuffing with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes for the ultimate holiday comfort food duo.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your meal with roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze or garlic for a crispy and savory side.

Cranberry Sauce

A sweet and tangy cranberry sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the stuffing.

Honey Glazed Carrots

Caramelized with honey and a hint of cinnamon, these carrots bring a colorful and slightly sweet balance to your plate.

Herb-Crusted Turkey

Complete your Thanksgiving meal by pairing the stuffing with a perfectly roasted herb-crusted turkey.

Green Bean Casserole

Serve a creamy and crunchy green bean casserole as another classic side to round out your festive spread.