There’s something incredibly comforting about preparing Grandma classic stuffing. This hearty dish combines day-old bread with savory herbs and aromatics for that perfect holiday side dish your family will request year after year. It reminds me of the wonderful aromas that would fill my grandmother’s kitchen every Thanksgiving morning while she prepared her famous traditional Italian meatballs alongside the stuffing.

Grandma classic stuffing remains the centerpiece of our holiday table because it’s both simple to make and incredibly flavorful. I always smile remembering how she’d let me tear the bread while she chopped the vegetables, teaching me that the secret to perfect texture lies in using slightly stale bread. This traditional stuffing recipe has been passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma classic stuffing

Quick and Easy Preparation

This Grandma classic stuffing recipe comes together surprisingly quickly once you have your ingredients prepped. Unlike some complicated holiday dishes that require constant attention, this traditional stuffing mostly involves simple mixing and baking. The preparation is straightforward enough that even novice cooks can achieve fantastic results. If you enjoy simple yet impressive dishes, you might also appreciate our easy breakfast casserole that follows similar preparation principles.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Grandma classic stuffing is how well it holds up for meal preparation. You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead and refrigerate it until baking time, making holiday meal planning significantly easier. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight. Leftovers reheat beautifully, meaning you can enjoy this delicious stuffing for several days after your big meal.

Essential Ingredients

Main Components

The foundation of any great Grandma classic stuffing starts with quality ingredients. Each component plays a specific role in creating the perfect texture and flavor profile that makes this dish so memorable.

• Stale White Bread: Provides structure and absorbs flavors without becoming mushy
• Unsalted Butter: Creates richness and helps achieve that golden brown crust
• Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the overall flavor
• Celery: Contributes essential crunch and savory notes
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Moistens the bread while allowing salt control

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

The magic of Grandma classic stuffing lies in its seasoning blend. Dried sage provides that signature earthy, aromatic quality that defines traditional stuffing, while thyme adds complexity. The combination of kosher salt and black pepper enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them. For another herb-forward dish, try our garlic Parmesan chicken meatloaf that uses similar seasoning principles.

Grandma Classic Stuffing

Learn how to make Grandma's classic stuffing recipe with toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and savory herbs, baked to golden perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• oven
• baking sheet
• large mixing bowl
• skillet or Dutch oven
• knife
• cutting board
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• spatula or large spoon

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 12 cups stale white bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes from about 1 1/2 pounds of day-old white bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 300°F. Spread the bread cubes in an even layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the bread is lightly toasted and dried out but not browned. This step helps prevent your stuffing from becoming soggy. Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a very large mixing bowl. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F.
• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and celery to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and become translucent, but avoid letting them brown.
• Stir the 1 teaspoon of dried sage, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper into the softened vegetables. Continue to cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the herbs become fragrant.
• Pour the hot vegetable and herb mixture directly over the dried bread cubes in the very large mixing bowl. Add the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and the 2 lightly beaten large eggs. If using, stir in the 1/4 cup of fresh finely chopped parsley now.
• Using a large spoon or your clean hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until the bread cubes are evenly moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the bread too much. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy, and some bread pieces should still largely retain their shape.
• Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon the stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. You can leave it loosely packed for a more rustic texture or gently press it down for a firmer result.
• Bake the stuffing in the preheated 375°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the stuffing is heated through to at least 165°F. For a moister stuffing, you may cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the remaining time to allow the top to brown.

Notes

For a moister stuffing, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking.

Keyword classic, holiday, stuffing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Phase

Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F and cutting your stale bread into ½-inch cubes. Spread them evenly on a large baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes until dried but not browned. This crucial step ensures your Grandma classic stuffing maintains perfect texture rather than turning soggy. Meanwhile, chop your onion and celery finely and measure out your herbs. Preparation is similar to making our delicious banana bread where proper prep makes the process smooth.

Cooking Process

Melt butter in a large skillet and cook onions and celery until translucent. Add herbs and cook until fragrant, then combine this mixture with your toasted bread cubes. Gently mix in broth and eggs until the bread is moistened but still retains its shape. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown. The aroma will tell you when it’s ready – that heavenly sage and butter scent means your Grandma classic stuffing is perfectly done.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional Pairings

Grandma classic stuffing naturally pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, making it essential for Thanksgiving and holiday meals. It also complements other main dishes like roasted chicken or pork loin. For vegetable sides, consider green bean casserole, roasted Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots. The stuffing’s savory flavors also work well with sweet elements like cranberry sauce. If you’re looking for another classic side, our cheesy garlic rolls make a wonderful addition to any holiday spread.

Creative Presentation Ideas

For special occasions, consider baking individual portions of Grandma classic stuffing in muffin tins for perfect serving sizes. You can also stuff the mixture into hollowed-out acorn squash or bell peppers for an impressive presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or crispy fried sage leaves for color and extra flavor. Serving in a beautiful ceramic baking dish keeps the stuffing warm throughout the meal while adding to your table’s aesthetic.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper Storage Methods

Store leftover Grandma classic stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When freezing, label with the date to ensure you use it while it’s at its best. Always allow the stuffing to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain food safety and prevent condensation that could make it soggy.

Best Reheating Techniques

Reheat Grandma classic stuffing in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For crispier results, spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Add a tablespoon of broth or water if it seems dry before reheating. Microwave reheating works for single servings but may result in softer texture. For another dish that reheats beautifully, try our cottage pie which maintains its quality when properly stored and reheated.

Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

For gluten-free Grandma classic stuffing, use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free. Vegan version can be made by substituting butter with plant-based alternative, using vegetable broth, and replacing eggs with flax eggs. For lower carb options, try using cauliflower rice mixed with some almond flour to bind. Those avoiding poultry can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For another vegetarian option, our stuffed bell peppers offer delicious alternatives.

Ingredient Swaps

If you don’t have stale bread, fresh bread toasted longer works well. Cornbread can substitute for white bread for Southern-style stuffing. Leeks can replace onions for milder flavor, and fennel bulbs work instead of celery for a slight licorice note. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried – triple the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. For another recipe with flexible ingredients, our Detroit-style pizza allows for creative substitutions.

Nutritional Benefits

Key Nutrients

Grandma classic stuffing provides several important nutrients from its wholesome ingredients. Whole grain bread options offer fiber for digestive health, while eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential vitamins. Onions and celery provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The herbs, particularly sage, contain beneficial plant compounds that have been traditionally used for their potential health-supporting properties.

Health Advantages

When prepared with mindful ingredient choices, Grandma classic stuffing can be part of a balanced diet. Using whole grain bread increases fiber content, which supports heart health and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The vegetables contribute to your daily vegetable intake, providing vitamins and minerals essential for overall wellness. For another nutrient-dense option, our cranberry orange bread offers additional health benefits from fruit ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preparation Pitfalls

The most common mistake in making Grandma classic stuffing is using bread that’s too fresh, which results in mushy texture. Another error is overmixing the ingredients, which breaks down the bread cubes too much. Seasoning at the end rather than cooking herbs with aromatics reduces flavor development. Not tasting the mixture before baking makes it difficult to adjust seasoning properly. For another recipe where proper preparation matters, our chicken Parmesan requires similar attention to detail.

Cooking Errors

Overbaking Grandma classic stuffing creates dry, crumbly results, while underbaking leaves it soggy and potentially unsafe. Not heating the broth before adding it to the mixture can prevent proper absorption. Baking at too high temperature browns the top before the interior cooks through. I learned this lesson early when my first attempt resulted in burnt edges and raw center – now I always use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we say goodbye…

This Grandma classic stuffing recipe represents more than just a side dish – it’s a connection to family traditions and cherished memories around the table. The beautiful thing about this traditional stuffing is how it brings people together through shared enjoyment of comforting, homemade food. Whether you’re continuing family traditions or starting new ones, this Grandma classic stuffing will undoubtedly become a requested favorite. For another family-friendly dish that everyone loves, try our pepperoni pizza burgers for your next gathering. From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking!