A Taste of Tradition: Grandmother’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Growing up, Thanksgiving at my grandmother’s house was a celebration of love, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of comfort food wafting through the kitchen. Each year, as the leaves turned vibrant shades of amber and gold, our family gathered around the table, eager to share stories of the year gone by. The centerpiece of our feast was always her legendary stuffing, a dish infused with herbs and spices that evoked nostalgia and warmth.
This recipe is special because it not only serves as a delicious gallery of seasonal flavors but also connects us to our roots and family traditions. With its delightful mix of crusty bread, savory sausage, and fragrant herbs, this stuffing is a must-try for any Thanksgiving gathering or festive occasion. Imagine the thrilling crunch of the crust as you dig in, followed by the soft, herb-infused goodness within. Let’s breathe new life into your holiday table with this heartwarming dish!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffing
- Family-approved: A cherished recipe that’s been passed down for generations.
- Customizable: Adapt it to fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs.
- One-bowl wonder: Easy to prepare with minimal clean-up.
- Feeds a crowd: Perfect for large gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of day-old crusty bread (about 1 pound), cubed
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup dried cranberries or apples (optional for sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cubing the bread ahead—let it air out and dry if it’s fresh.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onion and celery; sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
- Add sausage to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Continue cooking until browned and cooked through (about 8 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes with the sausage mixture.
- Pour in the broth and herbs; stir until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Bake
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Tips & Variations
- Herb Swap: Try rosemary or dill instead of sage and thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions.
- Mix-ins: Add nuts, mushrooms, or your choice of dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance, store in the fridge, and bake before serving.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze baked stuffing in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutritional Information
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Servings: 8
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use stale bread for this recipe?
- Yes! Stale bread adds great texture but you can also dry fresh bread in the oven.
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Can I make this stuffing without sausage?
- Absolutely! You can omit sausage or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or other plant-based alternatives.
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What type of bread works best?
- A crusty bread like sourdough or French bread is ideal, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
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Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this stuffing with a rich gravy, roasted turkey, or cranberry sauce. A crisp green salad and apple cider complement the dish beautifully, adding freshness to your Thanksgiving feast.
Final Thoughts
As you bring this stuffing to your table, remember it’s more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating new memories with your loved ones. I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Share your thoughts or any special twists you make in the comments below. Happy cooking!