What is the difference between stuffing and dressing?

Stuffing is traditionally cooked inside the turkey, allowing it to absorb juices from the bird as it roasts. Dressing, on the other hand, is baked separately in a casserole dish, resulting in a slightly crispier top and a more even texture . This recipe follows the classic baked dressing method for the best balance of moisture and crispiness.

Can I make Thanksgiving dressing ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dressing up to two days in advance , cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This makes Thanksgiving prep easier without compromising flavor or texture.

How do I keep my dressing from being too dry or too soggy?

If too dry: Gradually add more warm broth, one-quarter cup at a time , until the dressing reaches the desired consistency. If too soggy: Spread the dressing in a thinner layer and bake uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes to allow moisture to evaporate.

What type of bread works best for Thanksgiving dressing?

A mix of stale sourdough, French bread, and cornbread works best for texture and depth of flavor. The bread should be slightly dried out so it can absorb the broth without becoming mushy. If using fresh bread, toast it in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes before assembling the dressing.

Can I add extra ingredients to customize my dressing?

Absolutely! Many families add ingredients to make their dressing unique. Some great options include: Sausage or bacon for a hearty, savory boost. Dried cranberries for a subtle sweetness. Chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Mushrooms for a deeper, umami-rich flavor.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving dressing?

Yes! To freeze before baking , assemble the dressing, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. To freeze after baking , let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through .

Best Ever Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe

Name: Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe (Classic & Easy!)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 cups bread cubes (sourdough, French bread, cornbread, or a mix)½ cup unsalted butter1 large onion, diced3 celery stalks, diced3 cloves garlic, minced2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried)½ teaspoon salt½ teaspoon black pepper2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth2 large eggs, beaten; Optional Add-Ins:½ cup cooked sausage, crumbled½ cup dried cranberries½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts1 cup sautéed mushrooms

Description

This old-fashioned Thanksgiving dressing recipe is rich, buttery, and packed with holiday flavor. Made with toasted bread, fresh herbs, and a savory broth, it has a crispy golden crust and a soft, moist interior. Perfect for serving alongside turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian main dish, this dressing is a holiday favorite that’s easy to make and can even be prepped ahead of time.

Ingredients

10 cups bread cubes (sourdough, French bread, cornbread, or a mix)
½ cup unsalted butter
1 large onion, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 large eggs, beaten

Optional Add-Ins:
½ cup cooked sausage, crumbled
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 cup sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

Prepare the Bread
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet.
Let them dry overnight, or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until slightly crisp.

Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add onion, celery, and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.

Combine and Moisten the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes and sautéed vegetable mixture.
Pour in chicken broth gradually, stirring to coat. The mixture should be moist but not soggy.
Add beaten eggs and mix well.

Bake Until Golden
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Rest and Serve
Let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread – It absorbs flavors without becoming mushy.
Adjust the broth amount – Start with 2 cups and add more as needed.
For extra crispiness, bake uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
Make it ahead – Assemble the dressing up to 2 days in advance and bake before serving.
Vegetarian option – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Side Dish, Main Course
Method: Baking, Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 8 servings)
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: old fashioned Thanksgiving dressing recipe, chicken dressing, Thanksgiving side dish, holiday dressing, homemade stuffing