Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without a delicious, comforting dressing. And when it comes to Southern comfort food, Paula Deen is queen! This recipe captures the essence of her famous Thanksgiving dressing, a moist, flavorful side dish that will have your guests asking for seconds (and thirds!). It's a perfect blend of savory and sweet, incorporating cornbread for that signature crumbly texture. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to Thanksgiving success. This recipe offers a healthy twist on the classic, making it a delicious and satisfying part of your healthy meal plan. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cornbread, cubed (day-old is best!)
- 1 cup crumbled sausage, cooked and drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by finely chopping the onion and celery. Sauté these in a pan with a little butter until softened, about 5 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your dressing. Don't overcook; you want them tender-crisp.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cubed cornbread, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, pecans (if using), and parsley. Gently toss to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, chicken broth, milk (or buttermilk), melted butter, poultry seasoning, sage, pepper, and salt.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cornbread to retain some texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the dressing rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to set slightly. Serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the wet ingredients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the sausage and add a cup of cooked wild rice or quinoa for a hearty vegetarian dressing.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to serve.
- Bread choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or even challah. Just be sure to cube it evenly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Fat: 15-20g Protein: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy-to-make Paula Deen-inspired Thanksgiving dressing is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious aromas and the satisfaction of creating a truly special dish for your Thanksgiving feast. Happy cooking, and happy Thanksgiving!