Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe
If you are looking for that perfect, heartwarming side dish to complement your Thanksgiving turkey, look no further than Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe. This classic stuffing is a comforting blend of buttery bread cubes, sautéed celery and onions, and just the right balance of herbs and seasoning. Every bite offers that nostalgic, homemade flavor that has been a family favorite for generations. It’s simple to make, full of texture and aroma, and guaranteed to bring smiles all around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the foundation of Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe, combining simple pantry staples and fresh produce to create a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the crisp French bread cubes giving body and crunch to the sautéed vegetables adding softness and sweet notes.
- 13–15 cups dry bread cubes (French bread recommended): Provides the perfect absorbent base for soaking up flavors without turning mushy.
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter: Adds rich, creamy taste and helps sauté the vegetables to tender perfection.
- 1 cup chopped celery: Brings a mild crunch and subtle earthy flavor essential to traditional stuffing.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion: Offers a sweet, aromatic foundation when cooked gently with butter.
- 2 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
- 1 tsp ground black pepper: Adds just enough warm spice to keep things interesting.
- 1 1/2 tbsp poultry seasoning: The key blend that gives stuffing its iconic holiday aroma and taste.
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock: Moistens the bread cubes and infuses them with savory depth without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind everything together, ensuring the stuffing holds its shape when baked.
How to Make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray so your stuffing won’t stick and will bake evenly with a crispy top.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onions and celery and sauté for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re wonderfully fragrant and softened but not browned. This step builds the savory flavor foundation for the stuffing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the dry bread cubes with the warm sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning, stirring gently to evenly distribute these essential seasonings. Pour in the chicken stock and crack the two eggs into the mix, stirring carefully to coat all the bread without breaking it apart.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the stuffing mixture into your prepared casserole dish, pressing it down gently but not packing it too tightly—air circulation is what creates that perfect crispy edge. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp, while remaining moist and tender inside.
Step 5: Serve with Love
Once your stuffing comes out of the oven, it’s time to bring the dish to life at your table. Watch how this classic dish transforms your Thanksgiving meal into a feast filled with warmth, tradition, and incredible flavor.
How to Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe
Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Fresh chopped parsley scattered over the top adds a pop of color and a fragrant brightness that complements the savory flavors within Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe perfectly.
Side Dishes
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving sides like roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Its rich, buttery flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser that balances well with both herbaceous, tangy, and creamy dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to stand out? Serve Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe in individual ramekins for each guest or scoop it into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bell peppers for a fun, festive twist. This not only looks impressive but also lets everyone enjoy a perfectly portioned helping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any stuffing left after your feast (which is rare!), store it tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining moisture and flavor for delicious leftovers.
Freezing
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for prepping your holiday meals in advance or enjoying stuffing whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the stuffing overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture, then uncover in the last few minutes for a crispy top that tastes freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread in this stuffing?
Absolutely! While French bread is recommended for its texture and absorbency, you can experiment with sourdough or even a hearty white bread. Just make sure the bread cubes are dry to avoid sogginess.
Is it possible to make Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken stock for a good quality vegetable broth. This keeps the stuffing flavorful while making it suitable for vegetarians without altering the beloved taste too much.
Can this stuffing be cooked inside the turkey?
This recipe is designed for baking separately in a casserole dish, which helps ensure even cooking and a crispy texture. Cooking stuffing inside the turkey can be risky as it may not reach a safe temperature throughout.
How do I get the stuffing crispy on top but moist inside?
The key is not packing the stuffing too tightly in the casserole dish and baking at 350°F. The moisture from the chicken stock and eggs keeps the inside tender, while the oven’s heat crisps up the top beautifully.
Can I prepare this stuffing a day ahead?
Definitely! You can assemble the stuffing the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it fresh before serving to enjoy that perfect golden crust and warm, inviting texture.
Final Thoughts
Making Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe is like inviting a beloved family tradition right into your kitchen. It’s a dish that brings warmth, deliciousness, and that nostalgic, comforting feeling we all crave during the holidays. I encourage you to try it this year and watch how it becomes a treasured part of your own Thanksgiving memories. Happy cooking and happy feasting!
Print
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing is a classic, savory side dish featuring crispy golden bread cubes blended with sautéed celery and onions, seasoned with poultry spices, and baked to perfection. This comforting recipe serves as the perfect complement to your holiday turkey feast.
Ingredients
Stuffing
- 13–15 cups dry bread cubes (French bread recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 tbsp poultry seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to ensure the stuffing doesn’t stick during baking.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add chopped celery and diced yellow onion, sautéing them for 10 to 12 minutes until fragrant and tender, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry bread cubes with the sautéed celery and onion mixture. Sprinkle in the salt, ground black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and add the two large eggs. Stir gently to evenly coat all the bread cubes and incorporate the liquids without crushing the bread.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the stuffing mixture into the greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the stuffing is heated through with a slightly crispy crust.
- Serve: Remove the stuffing from the oven, let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or favorite holiday dishes.
Notes
- French bread is recommended for the best texture, but any sturdy bread can be used.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like sage or thyme.
- Ensure the chicken stock is low-sodium to control the saltiness of the stuffing.
- To make ahead, prepare the stuffing mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Eggs help bind the stuffing, but can be omitted for a dairy-free or egg-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
