Description
This classic Thanksgiving turkey dressing is a flavorful and comforting side dish made with toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich broth. Baked to golden perfection, it perfectly complements your holiday turkey and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 loaf (16 ounces) day-old bread, cubed (white or whole grain)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids and Others
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or turkey broth (more if needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Toast the Bread Cubes: Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly on a baking sheet. Place in the oven and toast for 10 minutes until slightly crisp. Transfer the toasted bread to a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté Vegetables and Herbs: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add diced onion and celery, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, thyme, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for another 1 to 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Combine Vegetable Mixture with Bread: Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the toasted bread cubes in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to combine, then fold in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Mix Broth and Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or turkey broth with the beaten eggs until evenly combined.
- Add Liquid to Bread Mixture: Gradually pour the broth and egg mixture over the bread mixture, tossing gently to moisten all cubes evenly. Add additional broth if the mixture appears too dry.
- Transfer and Bake Covered: Transfer this moistened mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered until Golden: Remove the foil and bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and crisp.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a deliciously savory side dish to accompany your Thanksgiving turkey or holiday meal.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture; fresh bread may result in a soggy dressing.
- You can adjust the herbs to your preference or use fresh instead of dried for more vibrant flavor.
- If the dressing seems dry before baking, add more broth gradually to achieve the right moisture.
- Covering the dish during the first part of baking prevents drying out, while uncovering helps develop a crispy top.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving, adjusting time as needed.
