This classic Turkey (Thanksgiving) Dressing is filled with savory herbs and a rich buttery flavor, making it the perfect side dish to accompany your roasted turkey. Made with toasted bread cubes, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of seasonings, this recipe captures the essence of holiday comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with classic Thanksgiving flavors that everyone loves.
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have.
Perfectly moist on the inside with a slightly crisp top for the ideal texture contrast.
Pairs beautifully with turkey and other holiday staples.
Can be prepared in advance to save time on a busy holiday.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 loaf (16 ounces) day-old bread, cubed (white or whole grain)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large onion, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
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
2 1/2 cups chicken or turkey broth (more if needed)
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes until slightly crisp. Transfer the toasted cubes to a large mixing bowl.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, thyme, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and toss gently to combine. Add the chopped parsley.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread cubes, tossing gently to moisten. The mixture should be moist but not soggy; add more broth if needed.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey for a classic holiday meal.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
Cornbread Dressing: Replace the bread with cornbread cubes for a Southern twist.
Sausage Dressing: Add browned sausage for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or turkey broth.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Fruity Touch: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a hint of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For smaller portions, use a microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Freezing: Freeze the unbaked dressing for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
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FAQs
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dressing up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the liquid without becoming soggy. If using fresh bread, lightly dry it out in the oven.
What type of bread is best for dressing?
Both white and whole-grain bread work well. For extra flavor, try sourdough or French bread.
Can I substitute dried herbs for fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Just remember to use about half the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I know when the dressing is done?
The dressing is done when the top is golden and slightly crisp, and the interior is moist but not soggy.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving dressing is a timeless addition to your holiday table, combining rich flavors and a comforting texture. Whether served alongside a juicy turkey or enjoyed on its own, it’s a dish that brings warmth and tradition to your celebration. Try this recipe and make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable.
📖 Recipe:
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Turkey (Thanksgiving) Dressing
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Thanksgiving dressing with savory herbs, buttery flavor, and perfectly crisp edges. This side dish, made with toasted bread cubes, aromatic vegetables, and a rich blend of seasonings, complements your holiday turkey flawlessly.
Ingredients
1 loaf (16 ounces) day-old bread, cubed (white or whole grain)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large onion, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
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
2 1/2 cups chicken or turkey broth (more if needed)
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper, cooking for 1-2 more minutes.
- Pour the vegetable mixture over bread cubes and toss to combine. Add parsley.
- Whisk together broth and beaten eggs. Gradually pour over bread cubes, tossing gently until moistened. Add more broth if needed.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with your Thanksgiving meal.
Notes
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture.
Add more broth gradually if the mixture seems dry before baking.
Make ahead by assembling the dish a day in advance and refrigerating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 210 kcal
