Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the comforting aroma of freshly baked turkey dressing wafting through the kitchen. This old-fashioned recipe is a family favorite, perfect for both seasoned cooks and those new to homemade cooking. It's a delicious side dish that complements your Thanksgiving turkey beautifully, and it’s surprisingly easy to make! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meals this holiday season. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms (if using) and cook for another 3-5 minutes until softened and slightly browned. This step builds flavor – don’t rush it!
Add Flavor: Stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the herbs to bloom.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread. Gently toss to ensure the bread is evenly coated.
Add Moisture: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy. Don't over-mix; you want some texture. Stir in the parsley and nuts (if using).
Bake to Perfection: Pour the dressing mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it!
Serve and Enjoy: Let the dressing rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve alongside your roasted turkey and other Thanksgiving favorites.
Cooking Tips for the Best Dressing:
- Bread Choice: Using stale bread is key! It absorbs the liquid better and prevents a soggy dressing. If you don't have stale bread, you can dry it out in a low oven for about 15 minutes.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Rosemary, marjoram, or even a sprinkle of poultry seasoning would be delicious additions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Variations:
- Cranberry Dressing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the dressing mixture for a burst of tartness.
- Sausage Dressing: Brown 1 pound of sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier dressing.
- Wild Rice Dressing: Incorporate 1 cup of cooked wild rice for added texture and nutrition.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This old-fashioned turkey dressing is a surefire way to impress your guests this Thanksgiving. It’s a simple recipe that yields delicious results, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Happy cooking!