Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

Homemade traditional stuffing with herbs and bread for Thanksgiving dinner.
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Why Make This Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that embodies the warmth and love of home-cooked meals, then Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe will quickly become your go-to. This stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s a hearty, comforting blend that brings families together around the dinner table. The delightful combination of savory herbs, tender vegetables, and rustic bread creates a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy Sunday dinner, this is a family favorite that tells the story of love and traditions passed down through generations.

How to Make Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

Making stuffing from scratch can seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly simple—and the flavor is worth the effort. This recipe highlights fresh, aromatic ingredients and easy steps to create a stuffing that will impress your guests and delight your family. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can whip up this traditional dish that everyone will savor.

Ingredients:

  • 16 cups dry bread cubes
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups diced onion
  • 2 cups diced celery
  • 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare Bread: Cut or tear bread into 1-inch cubes. To dry, spread on baking sheets and air-dry overnight, or bake at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes until lightly toasted and dry, then cool completely.

  2. Sauté Aromatics: Melt 1/2 cup butter in a large skillet. Add diced onion and celery; cook for 10-15 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Combine Mixture: Transfer dried bread cubes to a large bowl. Pour the sautéed aromatic mixture over the bread. Toss gently to coat the bread with flavors.

  4. Moisten & Bind: Warm the chicken broth. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups warm broth, tossing gently. Let sit for 5 minutes, then toss again. Adjust the broth for desired moistness (make sure it’s not soggy). Lightly beat the eggs; pour them over the stuffing. Add chopped parsley and gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

  5. Bake Covered: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the mixture into the dish and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.

  6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 25-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crisp, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  7. Rest & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving warm.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 cup):

  • Calories: 282
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 575mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 8g

How to Serve Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

Serve this stuffing warm alongside your favorite roasted turkey or chicken, and watch it steal the show! You can also pair it with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal. For special occasions, consider adding caramelized apples or sautéed mushrooms to elevate the flavors and textures. This dish is not only perfect for Thanksgiving but also for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.

How to Store Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

If you have leftovers (which is rare!) or if you want to prep ahead, let the stuffing cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stuffing for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it in the oven, covered with foil, until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe: Family Favorite

  • Choosing the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a mix of white and whole-grain bread, or try sourdough for extra flavor.
  • Consider the Herbs: Feel free to switch up the herbs based on your family’s preferences. Rosemary and parsley can also add a fresh touch!
  • Texture Matters: The bread should be dry enough to soak up the broth without getting mushy. If needed, add the broth gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
  • Eggs are Essential: The eggs help bind the stuffing together; don’t skip this step!

Delicious Variations

  1. Cornbread Stuffing: Use cornbread cubes instead of regular bread for a sweet and savory twist.
  2. Fruit and Nut Stuffing: Add chopped dried cranberries or apples and walnuts or pecans for a delightful sweetness and crunch.
  3. Sausage Stuffing: Brown some sausage before sautéing the vegetables for a heartier version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use stale bread for stuffing?
    Yes! Stale bread actually works best as it absorbs liquids better. Just make sure to dry it out properly for the best texture.

  • Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
    Definitely! You can prepare the entire stuffing the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

  • What can I substitute for chicken broth?
    You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or even water in a pinch, though this may alter the flavor.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe truly embodies the spirit of home cooking with its hearty flavors and comforting aroma. It’s an easy recipe that will impress with both its taste and texture, making it an essential part of your family gatherings. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this stuffing is bound to become a beloved tradition in your home. Go ahead, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments! Happy cooking!

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Grandma’s Best Traditional Stuffing Recipe


  • Author: acheyakh-mohamed
  • Total Time: 85 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A hearty and comforting stuffing recipe that brings families together around the dinner table, perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 cups dry bread cubes
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 cups diced onion
  • 2 cups diced celery
  • 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh or dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Bread: Cut or tear bread into 1-inch cubes. To dry, spread on baking sheets and air-dry overnight, or bake at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes until lightly toasted and dry, then cool completely.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large skillet. Add diced onion and celery; cook for 10-15 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Combine Mixture: Transfer dried bread cubes to a large bowl. Pour the sautéed aromatic mixture over the bread. Toss gently to coat the bread with flavors.
  4. Moisten & Bind: Warm the chicken broth. Gradually add warm broth, tossing gently. Let sit for 5 minutes, then toss again. Adjust the broth for desired moistness. Lightly beat the eggs; pour them over the stuffing. Add chopped parsley and gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  5. Bake Covered: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the mixture into the dish and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 25-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crisp, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Consider using a mix of white and whole-grain bread for texture. You can also add different herbs based on your family’s preferences.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 282
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 575mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: stuffing, traditional, holiday, family recipe, comfort food

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Pro Chef & Blogger

My name is James Walker, and I’m the founder and lead recipe developer at Smile Food. With over 7 years of professional culinary experience, I’ve cooked in diverse kitchens, studied global cuisines, and developed a passion for making cooking accessible to everyone.