A comforting, savory stuffing full of rich herbs, sautéed vegetables, and love. Perfect as a side or to stuff your Thanksgiving turkey.
Every Thanksgiving, the heart of the celebration in Nonna Pia’s kitchen is her beloved stuffing—a recipe passed down through generations and perfected with love. This isn’t just any stuffing; it’s a savory, comforting dish that fills the home with the aroma of herbs, toasted bread, and sautéed vegetables. As the turkey roasts, Nonna Pia works her magic, preparing her signature stuffing with care and a smile that warms the whole room. With each stir of the spoon and pinch of seasoning, she tells stories of holidays past, of laughter, family, and unforgettable feasts.
What makes Nonna Pia’s stuffing so special? It’s her secret blend of fresh herbs, rich broth, caramelized onions, and a rustic loaf of day-old bread that’s been cubed and toasted to golden perfection. Sometimes she adds a few surprises—like sweet apples or Italian sausage—depending on who’s coming to dinner. Her kitchen becomes a gathering place where tradition meets flavor, and where every bite tells a story.
This Thanksgiving, we’re bringing you a slice of that tradition, with Nonna Pia’s treasured recipe that’s simple to make, yet full of heart. Whether you serve it as a side or stuff it in your turkey, this dish will become a family favorite. Let’s celebrate the season the way Nonna Pia does—through food, love, and
🦃 Nonna Pia’s Yummy Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe!
🍞 Ingredients:
- 1 loaf day-old Italian bread (about 8–10 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes and toasted
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 apple, peeled and diced (optional, for a sweet contrast)
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casing (optional, for a heartier version)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 to 3 cups chicken or turkey broth (add as needed for moistness)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Toast the Bread
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 15–20 minutes until golden and dry. Let cool. - Cook the Sausage (if using)
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside. - Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes. - Add Apples & Herbs
Stir in apple, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes. Remove from heat. - Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread, sausage, and vegetable mixture. Gradually add broth until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. - Add Eggs
Stir in the beaten eggs to bind the stuffing. - Bake
Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.
🥄 Serving Tip:
Serve warm as a side dish or stuff it inside your Thanksgiving turkey before roasting. Either way, it’s sure to be a family favorite—just like it is in Nonna Pia’s home!sharing.
