Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe

Name: Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread, cubed; 1 onion, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Celebrate the season with this timeless Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. Filled with fresh herbs, savory vegetables, and hearty bread, this stuffing creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Perfectly moist and seasoned, it’s an essential side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey or can be enjoyed on its own.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-17T10:07:39.539Z

This stuffing recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing family together each Thanksgiving. It's a heartfelt reminder of cherished moments around the holiday table.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Classic flavors that everyone loves.
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
Versatile enough to pair with various main dishes.
Leftovers make for delicious sandwiches!

      

The History of Stuffing

Stuffing, also known as dressing, has been a cherished dish for centuries, often passed down through generations. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where they would fill meats with various ingredients as a way to make the most out of available food. Over time, different cultures adapted this dish, leading to variations we now enjoy today.

In American cuisine, stuffing holds a special place, especially during Thanksgiving, symbolizing comfort, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Many families have their own unique recipes, incorporating regional ingredients and traditions that reflect their heritage. This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing recipe is a testament to the warmth and love that goes into creating comforting dishes during the holiday season.

Choosing the Right Bread

The key to a successful stuffing lies in the bread you choose. For this recipe, a sturdy loaf like sourdough or French bread works wonderfully, as it holds up well during the toasting process and absorbs flavors beautifully. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, as it may become too mushy when combined with broth.

For an added twist, consider using a mix of different types of bread. Combining whole wheat with some crusty artisan bread can introduce varied textures and flavors, making your stuffing even more delicious. Remember, the bread is the foundation of your stuffing, so take care in selecting the perfect loaf.

Customizing Your Stuffing

One of the best aspects of stuffing is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to personalize the dish. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can add a lovely sweetness, while nuts like pecans or walnuts contribute a delightful crunch. If you want to spice things up, consider adding sautéed sausage or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs and spices as well. While sage and thyme are traditional favorites, you could also try rosemary or even a touch of cayenne for those who appreciate a hint of heat. Customizing this stuffing can make it a unique creation that resonates with your family's tastes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your stuffing.

Main Ingredients

1 loaf of bread, cubed
1 onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 carrots, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup unsalted butter

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffing.

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread, cooked vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.

Bake the Stuffing

Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is crispy.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing can be enjoyed alongside your turkey, but it also serves as a fantastic side dish for other meats such as roast chicken or even a honey-glazed ham. The flavorful stuffing complements the savory notes of these dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Leftover stuffing can be repurposed in many enjoyable ways. Consider transforming it into a hearty sandwich with leftover turkey, some cranberry sauce, and a spread of mayonnaise for a delicious lunch the next day. Alternatively, you can treat it as a breakfast option—just add an egg and some cheese, bake until heated through, and enjoy a comforting morning meal.

Storage Tips

To ensure your stuffing stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

If you want to prepare this stuffing in advance, consider making it a day ahead of time. Prepare everything up to the baking step and store the mixture in the fridge. On Thanksgiving day, simply transfer it to the baking dish and pop it in the oven when you are ready to serve, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones while enjoying a delicious homemade dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ What type of bread is best for stuffing?

A hearty bread like sourdough or a rustic country loaf works best.