Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing with Cranberries and Pecans
Introduction
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, incredible food! One dish that always makes its way to the table is Grandma’s stuffing. With the perfect blend of savory bread, aromatic herbs, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, this stuffing adds a delightful twist to your holiday feast. I’d love to share this cherished recipe with you, and I invite you to subscribe so you can receive it directly to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Grandma’s stuffing so special? First, the combination of flavors! The crunch of the pecans and the tartness of the cranberries perfectly complements the herbed bread, creating a taste sensation that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a family-friendly recipe perfect for holiday gatherings. You’ll feel the warmth and love that comes from this dish, as it brings everyone together around the table!
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup onion, diced
– 1 stick of butter
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pepper
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
– 2 eggs, beaten
Necessary Tools
– Large skillet
– Baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Spatula or wooden spoon
– Foil for covering the dish
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste! You can swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. If you’re looking for added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked sausage or mushrooms. You may also substitute fresh herbs if you have them on hand—fresh sage and thyme will give an even more robust flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion, cooking until they’re translucent and tender, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread, salt, pepper, sage, and thyme. Mix well, feeling the textures change as the bread soaks up the buttery richness.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring all the bread is moistened by stirring gently.
5. Add the dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the mixture, folding them in for an even distribution of flavors.
6. Drizzle the beaten eggs over the top and stir until everything is well combined.
7. Pour the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes more, until the top is golden and crispy.
9. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Serving Suggestions
This stuffing pairs beautifully with a turkey centerpiece but also complements glazed ham or roasted vegetable dishes. A side of cranberry sauce or gravy can take your meal to the next level. Don’t forget to serve it with a warm loaf of bread and a fresh green salad!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your bread is slightly stale; this helps it absorb the flavors without getting mushy.
– Don’t rush the sautéing process; allowing the onions and celery to caramelize will enhance the stuffing’s depth of flavor.
– If you have leftovers, resist the urge to pack it away immediately—let it cool to preserve the texture!
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave portions if you’re in a hurry!
FAQ Section
– Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking from cold.
– What if I don’t like cranberries?
Feel free to swap them for raisins or diced apples for a different fruit flavor!
Conclusion
Grandma’s Thanksgiving stuffing with cranberries and pecans is truly a wholesome, comforting dish that embodies the spirit of the holiday. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to be a hit with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Don’t forget to leave a review, share your photos, or tag your experience on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 6g
– Cholesterol: 50mg
– Sodium: 480mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 32g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 5g
– Protein: 6g
Enjoy crafting this delicious stuffing, and may it bring warmth to your Thanksgiving table!
