old fashioned thanksgiving dressing recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best old fashioned thanksgiving dressing recipe

I have been making this old fashioned thanksgiving dressing recipe for as long as I can remember. It is the one dish my family begs for every year and I never have leftovers. The simple ingredients like bread, celery, and onions come together in a way that feels both humble and special. My kids love the crispy top and soft middle, and I love that I can make it ahead of time. This dressing is perfect for Thanksgiving but also works for any holiday dinner. It is a classic recipe that never goes out of style and fills your home with a cozy aroma.

Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing

4.8 from 1921 votes

A classic, simple dressing made with dried bread, celery, onion, and savory herbs. This recipe is the perfect side dish for your holiday turkey and will remind you of grandma’s kitchen.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dressing

1 (16 ounce) loaf day-old white bread, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 cups celery, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly dry. Remove and let cool.
3In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery and cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
4In a very large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked vegetables, salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Toss gently to mix.
5In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and beaten eggs.
6Pour the broth mixture over the bread mixture and stir gently until all the bread is moistened. Do not overmix.
7Transfer the dressing to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
8Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set.
9Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 34g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use turkey broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley or a handful of dried cranberries for a pop of color and sweetness.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing Works

This old fashioned thanksgiving dressing recipe is the one I turn to every holiday. It is simple, reliable, and always gets compliments. I know it will become a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing

1. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dressing up to a day in advance. Do not bake it. Cover the dish and refrigerate. When you are ready to bake, add about 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

You can, but day-old bread works best because it is drier and absorbs the broth without getting mushy. If you only have fresh bread, cut it into cubes and toast them in a 300 degree oven for about 15 minutes to dry them out.

3. Can I add sausage or other meat to this dressing?

Absolutely. Brown 1 pound of ground pork sausage or breakfast sausage in the skillet before cooking the onions and celery. Drain the fat and then proceed with the recipe. This adds a savory, meaty flavor.

4. How do I keep my dressing from being too dry or too wet?

The key is the bread to liquid ratio. If your bread cubes are very dry, you may need a little more broth. The dressing should look moist but not soupy. If it is too dry after adding the broth, add a splash more. If it is too wet, add a few more bread cubes.

5. Can I bake the dressing inside the turkey?

It is not recommended for food safety. The dressing inside the turkey may not reach a safe internal temperature by the time the turkey is done. It is safer and easier to bake the dressing separately in a dish.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts