Thanksgiving wouldn't feel complete without a standout dressing to complement your feast, and you've got options that cater to every palate. Whether you prefer the familiar warmth of classic herb bread dressing or the enticing combination of sausage and apple, each recipe brings its own unique flair. You might find yourself intrigued by the unexpected textures in cornbread dressing with pecans or the earthy flavors of wild rice and mushrooms. And if you're in the mood for a twist, the Mediterranean-inspired version could surprise you. So, which dressing will you choose to enhance your holiday table?
Classic Herb Bread Dressing
Classic Herb Bread Dressing is a quintessential side dish that enhances any Thanksgiving feast. With its delightful mix of toasted bread, aromatic herbs, and savory broth, this dressing offers a comforting and flavorful accompaniment to your turkey and other holiday dishes.
Whether baked in the oven or cooked inside the bird, it captures the essence of the season and brings warmth to the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (about 12 cups, cubed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 to 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven for about 10 minutes until it's lightly golden and dried out.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion, celery, and garlic until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the dried herbs, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute to release their flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread, sautéed vegetables, fresh parsley, and beaten eggs (if using). Gradually pour in the broth, mixing until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of bread types, such as sourdough or whole grain, to add complexity to your dressing.
You can also customize the herbs according to your taste preferences; fresh herbs can provide a vibrant flavor, but be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.
If you prefer a more moist dressing, add additional broth before baking. Finally, feel free to incorporate add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, dried cranberries, or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing
Savory Sausage and Apple Stuffing is a delightful twist on the traditional Thanksgiving dressing that combines the rich flavors of savory sausage, sweet apples, and aromatic herbs. This stuffing isn't only a perfect complement to turkey but also a wonderful standalone dish that can be enjoyed throughout the fall season.
The combination of textures and flavors creates a comforting side that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups cubed bread (such as sourdough or French bread)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet and sauté until they're softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced apples, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, sausage mixture, chicken broth, parsley, and walnuts (if using).
Mix until the bread is well-coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For extra depth of flavor, consider using homemade bread cubes or adding a splash of apple cider to the mixture.
If you prefer a more herby stuffing, feel free to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
You can also prepare the stuffing a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight; just be sure to adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Make sure your bread is slightly stale for the best texture, or toast it lightly before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Enjoy this savory stuffing as a highlight of your Thanksgiving feast!
Cornbread Dressing With Pecans
Cornbread dressing with pecans is a delightful twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish that adds a touch of nuttiness and crunch. This dressing is made with homemade cornbread and mixed with savory vegetables, aromatic herbs, and toasted pecans, creating a rich and flavorful accompaniment to your holiday feast.
Perfectly moist and infused with the essence of Thanksgiving, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, toasted pecans, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs, then pour this mixture into the cornbread mixture, stirring until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade cornbread and toasting the pecans before adding them to the dressing.
You can also experiment with additional ingredients such as dried cranberries or cooked sausage to enhance the dish further.
If you prefer a moister dressing, feel free to add more broth, and for a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Finally, this dressing can be prepared a day in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.
Wild Rice and Mushroom Medley
Wild Rice and Mushroom Medley is a delightful and earthy dressing that brings together the nutty flavors of wild rice with the rich, savory notes of mushrooms. This Thanksgiving, raise your holiday table with this delicious and unique dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and all the traditional sides.
The combination of textures and flavors will be a hit among your guests, offering a wonderful alternative to classic bread-based dressings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or shiitake)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic, sautéing until the vegetables are tender.
Then, add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper, cooking until the mushrooms are soft.
Once the wild rice is done, fluff it with a fork and combine it with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet.
Stir in the fresh parsley and slivered almonds if using, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of different mushrooms, such as porcini or oyster mushrooms, which can improve the earthiness of the dish.
You can also make this dressing ahead of time; simply prepare it up to the point of combining the rice and sautéed vegetables, then refrigerate.
When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out.
Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding dried cranberries or chopped apples for a hint of sweetness.
Mediterranean-Inspired Dressing
This Mediterranean-inspired dressing is a delightful twist on traditional Thanksgiving flavors, bringing a burst of freshness and vibrancy to your holiday table.
Combining robust herbs, earthy bread, and savory ingredients, this dressing won't only complement your turkey but also impress your guests with its unique taste profile.
Perfect for those who appreciate the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean, this dressing is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as ciabatta or sourdough), cubed
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed onion and garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped olives, feta cheese, parsley, oregano, and basil.
Season with salt and pepper, then pour in the broth and gently toss until the bread is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider toasting the bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes before mixing them with the other ingredients.
This will help them absorb the broth better and create a crunchier texture.
You can also experiment with other Mediterranean ingredients like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or pine nuts to customize the dressing to your taste.
If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, assemble everything and refrigerate it, then simply bake it fresh on the day of your celebration.