A Classic Side That Defines the Holiday
Every family has a recipe that carries memories, and for many, it’s Grandma’s stuffing. This classic turkey stuffing brings warmth, comfort, and that unmistakable holiday aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes. With chunks of crusty bread, sautéed vegetables, and rich broth, this stuffing homemade recipe is both rustic and elegant. It’s the side dish that ties everything together, making it one of the best homemade stuffing recipes you’ll ever make.
Whether you grew up calling it stuffing or dressing, this dish has stood the test of time. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted with sausage, bacon, nuts, or extra herbs depending on your family tradition. If you’ve ever wondered how to make stuffing from scratch, this recipe shows you exactly how, step by step.
Why This Stuffing Belongs on Your Table
- Comfort food at its best – hearty, savory, and satisfying.
- Customizable – add sausage for richness or bacon for smokiness (stuffing recipes with bacon are especially popular).
- Holiday essential – the perfect partner to roast turkey and gravy.
- Easy to prepare – just a few simple steps for delicious results.
- Family tradition – it’s a recipe passed down through generations.
This recipe is more than food—it’s a holiday ritual. For those who want easy homemade stuffing recipes, this version balances tradition with convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 loaf crusty bread (day-old, cut into cubes)
- 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup)
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth (depending on desired moisture)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage (for stuffing recipes with bacon)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- ½ cup dried cranberries for a festive touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Bread
Cut bread into cubes and spread on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes until dry and lightly golden.
Step 2 – Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, celery, and garlic until soft and fragrant. Stir in herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary) for a savory base.
Step 3 – Combine the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Add parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 4 – Add Liquid
Pour broth gradually over the bread mixture until moist but not soggy. Stir in beaten eggs to bind.
Step 5 – Bake
Transfer stuffing into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffing
- Bread matters: rustic, crusty bread holds up better than sandwich bread.
- Moisture control: add broth slowly; too much makes stuffing mushy.
- Crispy topping: uncover the last 15 minutes for that irresistible crunch.
- Savory stuffing upgrades: fold in sausage or bacon for a heartier dish.
This method guarantees the best stuffing for your holiday table.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roast turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce.
- Serve alongside savory stuffing favorites like green bean casserole and mashed potatoes.
- Use leftovers for stuffing muffins or inside turkey sandwiches.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Make-ahead: Prepare stuffing up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked stuffing for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.
FAQ – Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing
Can I make stuffing without eggs?
Yes. Eggs add binding, but you can leave them out or use a flaxseed substitute.
Is this stuffing gluten-free?
It’s not by default, but you can use gluten-free bread for a great result.
What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing?
Technically, stuffing goes inside the turkey, while dressing is baked separately. This recipe works either way.
How do I make stuffing moist but not soggy?
Add broth a little at a time until the bread is just moistened. Bake uncovered at the end for a crisp top.
Can I use bacon in this recipe?
Absolutely! Stuffing recipes with bacon add smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with roast turkey.
Final Thoughts
This Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe is proof that simple ingredients create timeless flavors. It’s cozy, customizable, and one of the most beloved holiday sides. Whether you enjoy it plain or upgraded with sausage and bacon, this stuffing homemade recipe will truly steal the show at your holiday feast.
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe That Will Steal the Show
Ingredients
- – 1 loaf crusty bread day-old, cubed
- – 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- – 2 medium onions diced
- – 3 celery stalks diced
- – 3 garlic cloves minced
- – 2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth
- – 2 large eggs beaten
- – 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- – 1 tsp dried sage
- – 1 tsp thyme
- – 1 tsp rosemary
- – Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional:
- – 1 cup cooked bacon or sausage
- – 1/2 cup chopped nuts
- – 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. Cube bread and toast in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes until dry.
- 3. In skillet, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
- 4. Stir in herbs, then combine mixture with bread cubes in large bowl.
- 5. Gradually add broth and eggs until bread is moist but not soggy.
- 6. Transfer to greased baking dish. Cover with foil, bake 30 minutes.
- 7. Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes more until top is golden.
