Description
This classic Thanksgiving Turkey Dressing is a savory and comforting side dish featuring toasted bread cubes mixed with sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, and a rich broth-egg mixture, baked to a golden, crispy perfection. Perfectly seasoned with poultry spices and fresh parsley, it complements any holiday turkey feast.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the dressing.
- Toast Bread Cubes: Spread the cubed day-old bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes to dry and lightly brown the bread, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté Vegetables and Herbs: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery; sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme (or dried), poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and black pepper, cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Combine Bread and Vegetable Mixture: Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the toasted bread cubes. Toss gently to evenly coat the bread, then add the chopped fresh parsley and mix well.
- Prepare and Add Broth-Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or turkey broth with the beaten eggs. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread and vegetables, tossing gently until the bread is moistened evenly. Add more broth if mixture seems dry.
- Transfer and Cover: Transfer the moistened bread mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve the dressing warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or other holiday dishes.
Notes
- Use day-old bread as it absorbs the broth better and prevents sogginess.
- Adjust broth quantity to reach desired moistness; dressing should be moist but not soupy.
- Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in smaller amounts.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped cooked sausage or nuts.
- Covering the dish with foil during initial baking ensures the stuffing remains moist inside.
- Ensure the top gets enough time uncovered to develop a crispy crust.
