Grandma’s Old Fashioned Stuffing Recipe: A Homemade Classic

No one could make a mouth-watering holiday sit-down dinner with all the fixings like my grandmother. If you’re looking for a recipe that brings the flavors of Thanksgiving to life, then Grandma’s old fashioned stuffing recipe is a must-try.

This simple, classic stuffing recipe combines savory flavors, fresh herbs, and the perfect balance of soft and crunchy textures. With its use of stale bread, it’s a great way to make use of leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste. Whether you serve it alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or as part of a comforting holiday meal, this recipe will soon become a family favorite.

How to Make Grandma’s Old Fashioned Stuffing Recipe

This easy stuffing recipe is one of those comforting holiday dishes that requires only a few simple ingredients. Yet somehow, the combination is just magical. True, it’s unlikely to show up as a viral Tiktok food trend, but it’s ideal for using up day-old bread and turning it into something delicious to serve on the Thanksgiving table.

Want the printable recipe card? It’s down at the bottom of this post.

Ingredients

The best way to make this stuffing is by gathering a few basic ingredients you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need.

8 cups bread cut into 1-inch pieces, ideally day-old bread (such as white bread, wheat bread, or sourdough)
½ cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup onions, finely chopped
• ½ cup celery, chopped
• 4-5 large cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or turkey broth for extra flavor)
• 1 poultry seasoning cube
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions

To make Grandma’s old fashioned stuffing recipe, follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect side dish for your holiday meal. Serve it alongside parmesan carrots. And don’t forget a dish of cranberry orange relish for that turkey, too!

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté the onions, garlic, and celery, stirring frequently until they’re soft and translucent.
3. Add the dried herbs, fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes.
4. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl or directly into your prepared baking dish. Pour the onion mixture over the bread, stirring gently to coat each piece.
5. Transfer the mixture to your baking dish and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and crispy.

Serve immediately. And if you happen to have leftover stuffing, you could always store them in an airtight container. That makes a great addition to sandwiches or casseroles.

Is It Stuffing or Dressing?

The debate between calling it stuffing or dressing has been around for generations, often depending on where you live and how the dish is prepared. Traditionally, “stuffing” refers to a mixture placed inside a Thanksgiving turkey or another type of poultry, allowing the juices of the meat to flavor the bread and herbs.

On the other hand, “dressing” is typically cooked separately in a casserole dish or baking dish. It becomes golden brown on top and slightly crispy around the edges.

In the South, many families use the term “dressing” regardless of whether it’s cooked inside the bird or not. In other regions, “stuffing” is more commonly used.

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, this classic holiday side dish brings comfort and familiarity to the holiday table. So, feel free to call it whatever suits your family tradition best.

Why We Serve Stuffing at Holiday Dinners

Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a holiday tradition. Every family has slight variations on their own stuffing recipe and memories that go along with it. Your mom or grandmother’s stuffing recipe stood the test of time, often reminding us of family gatherings, happy times, and the comforting flavors of home-cooked food.

Historically, stuffing was a practical way to use stale or leftover bread. A classic, homemade stuffing recipe transforms simple ingredients like herbs, broth, bread and vegetables into a filling, hearty dish. 

At holiday meals, stuffing pairs perfectly with turkey, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie. Or, in our case, pumpkin pecan cheesecake pie.

This homemade stuffing recipe offers a savory balance to sweeter dishes on the Thanksgiving table. This beloved classic also symbolizes abundance and gratitude, fitting right in with the spirit of the season.

As a busy mom who hates waste, I find stuffing to be a beautiful example of resourcefulness and creativity in the kitchen, taking everyday ingredients and turning them into a memorable, family-favorite dish that brings everyone together.

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Stuffing Recipe FAQs

Got questions about making this classic stuffing recipe? Here are some answers.

How can I store leftover stuffing?

Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven or a skillet for best results, adding a little bit of broth if needed to restore moisture. Or use it to top your favorite turkey pot pie recipe.

Can I use a different kind of bread?

Yes, the type of bread you use is based on personal preference. White bread, sourdough, French bread, and wheat bread all work well. Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the flavors without becoming too mushy.

Can I make this stuffing recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients and assemble the stuffing in your baking dish a day ahead, then cover it with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

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