Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe
This old fashioned Thanksgiving dressing recipe is a classic, comforting side dish made with simple ingredients like bread, butter, and herbs. It features a crispy golden top and a moist, flavorful center. Perfect for pairing with turkey and gravy, it’s an easy, nostalgic addition to any holiday meal.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- 12 cups of day-old bread cubed (white, cornbread, or a mix works great)
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks diced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth low-sodium is fine
- 2 large eggs beaten
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This keeps the dressing from sticking.
Step 2: Cube and Dry the Bread
- Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes if it’s not already done. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10-15 minutes until slightly crisp. Let them cool while you prep the rest.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
- Melt 1 stick of butter (½ cup) in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until soft—about 8 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don’t burn.
Step 4: Mix the Seasonings
- In a large bowl, toss the toasted bread cubes with sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked onion and celery, mixing everything together evenly. The aroma will start filling your kitchen here.
Step 5: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Pour the beaten eggs and 2 cups of broth over the bread mixture. Stir gently until the bread soaks it up—don’t overmix, or it’ll get soggy. Add parsley if you’re using it.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly with your spoon or spatula. Dot the top with the remaining stick of butter, cut into small pieces.
Step 7: Bake the Dressing
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top that’s crispy but not dry. Check it at 35 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Step 8: Let It Rest
- Take the dressing out and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping easier. The smell will tempt you, but waiting is worth it.