Name: Grandma's Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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

A cherished family recipe, Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing combines classic, hearty flavors with simple ingredients to create a dish that’s the perfect complement to your holiday feast. The blend of savory spices, tender bread cubes, and aromatic vegetables evokes warm memories and fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of Thanksgiving tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this stuffing recipe because it’s timeless, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. The use of everyday ingredients ensures it’s accessible while allowing room for personal touches if I want to make adjustments. The crispy golden top and tender, flavorful interior make it the ideal side dish to pair with turkey, gravy, and all the fixings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to satisfy any family gathering or celebration.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

13-15 cups dry bread cubes (preferably French bread)

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter

1 cup chopped celery

2 1/4 tsp salt

1 cup diced yellow onion

1 tsp ground black pepper

2 large eggs

1 1/2 tbsp poultry seasoning

1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, sautéing for 10-12 minutes until tender and fragrant.

Place the dry bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed onions and celery.

Sprinkle the mixture with salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Pour in the chicken stock, and gently stir in the eggs, making sure the bread absorbs the liquid evenly but doesn’t become overly soggy.

Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 10

Variations

Sausage Addition: Add cooked, crumbled sausage for a meatier stuffing.

Nuts and Fruit: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries for a sweet and crunchy twist.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes for those with dietary restrictions.

Herbaceous Flavor: Include fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary for an extra aromatic profile.

Vegetarian-Friendly: Swap the chicken stock with vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I like to cover it with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Adding a small splash of chicken stock before reheating helps maintain its moist texture. For longer storage, I freeze the stuffing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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FAQs

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the stuffing a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, I allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Can I use fresh bread instead of dry bread cubes?

Using fresh bread can make the stuffing too soggy. I prefer drying out the bread cubes in the oven at 250°F for 20 minutes if I don’t have pre-dried bread.

What’s the best way to make this stuffing vegan?

Replace the butter with vegan butter, the chicken stock with vegetable broth, and the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed substitute.

Can I stuff this inside the turkey instead of baking it separately?

Yes, but I ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Stuffing cooked inside the bird often takes longer to bake and may need additional moisture.

How can I add more flavor to the stuffing?

I sometimes mix in cooked mushrooms, roasted garlic, or diced apples for a flavor boost. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or sage also enhances the taste.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic centerpiece that brings loved ones together during the holiday season. Whether I’m keeping it traditional or adding a personal twist, this recipe delivers warm, hearty flavors that never fail to impress. It’s simple, delicious, and the perfect way to celebrate Thanksgiving.

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