Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 10
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking to add a warm, comforting dish to your Thanksgiving table, this Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing is a must-try. With its savory blend of herbs and buttery toasted bread cubes, it’s a nostalgic favorite that brings everyone back for seconds.

Ingredients for Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing

The base of this recipe is bread cubes, which create the texture and bulk of the dressing. Using day-old bread helps it absorb the flavors without becoming mushy. Unsalted butter not only adds richness but allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Onions and celery introduce a classic aromatic flavor base, while fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness. The poultry seasoning brings essential Thanksgiving flavors like sage and thyme. A touch of salt and black pepper enhances all the savory notes, and the chicken broth moistens the dressing, bringing everything together.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a mix of breads like sourdough and whole wheat for a complex flavor.
  • Make sure your bread is truly day-old — it’ll soak up the flavors better without turning to mush.
  • If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, and its savory profile complements the sweetness of cranberry sauce. You can also serve it with a side of gravy for those who love an extra saucy dish. Consider adding roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, just wrap portions tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
What if I don't have poultry seasoning?
You can make your own with a mix of sage, thyme, marjoram, and a pinch of rosemary.

Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish so the dressing doesn't stick. Spread your bread cubes on a baking sheet, giving them a quick toast in the oven for about 10 minutes. You want them lightly browned, not too dark. Once done, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

Now, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, cooking them until they’re nice and soft, roughly 8 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions are translucent and the celery is tender.

Stir in the parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper into your skillet with the vegetables. Once mixed, transfer everything to the bowl with your toasted bread cubes.

This is where it gets a little fun: gradually pour in the chicken broth. The goal is to moisten the bread without making it soggy, so add the broth slowly, mixing gently. You might not need all 4 cups, or you might need a little more. Trust your instincts here.

Once mixed, transfer everything to your greased baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it moist while it bakes. Cook in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it crisp up for an additional 15 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden brown top that’s slightly crunchy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients — perfect for a busy holiday kitchen.
  • Customizable to your family’s taste, whether you prefer it moist or with a crispy top.
  • Perfectly complements turkey, ham, or any main dish you’re serving.

Ingredients

12 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old)
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups chopped onion
2 cups chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 to 4 cups chicken broth

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking until soft, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir the parsley, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper into the vegetable mixture, then transfer the mixture to the bowl with the bread cubes.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, mixing gently until the bread is moist but not soggy (use more or less broth as needed).
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is crisp and golden brown.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!