As the holiday season approaches, nothing brings warmth and comfort to the table quite like homemade turkey dressing. This deliciously seasoned dish pairs perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey, adding a savory touch to help complete your feast.
Difference Between Stuffing and Dressing
When it comes to Thanksgiving side dishes, many people often confuse stuffing and dressing; however, they are actually distinct in both preparation and presentation. Specifically, stuffing refers to a mixture traditionally cooked inside the turkey’s cavity, which allows it to absorb the bird’s juices and flavors during roasting. In contrast, dressing is prepared separately, typically baked in a casserole dish. Moreover, many people consider dressing to be a more versatile dish, as you can embellish it with other ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits.
Ingredients in Homemade Turkey Dressing
My mother-in-law generously shared this family dressing recipe with me, and as a result, it has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition in our family. To create her perfect turkey stuffing, you will need the following ingredients.
Butter: Adds flavor and moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
Celery: Sauté the chopped celery in butter for this delicious dressing.
Onions: Use sweet onions for a mild flavor.
Cornbread: A savory cornbread made with buttermilk.
Stock: Use turkey or chicken stock. You can substitute broth.
Buttermilk Biscuits: Crumbled and mixed with cornbread.
Eggs: Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.
Salt and Pepper: Enhances the flavor of the dressing.
Dried Sage: Use rubbed or ground sage to add delicious flavor.
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by sautéing the chopped celery and onions in butter until they are tender and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds depth of flavor to your stuffing, making it exceptionally delicious.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the crumbled cornbread and biscuits. Next, add the salt, pepper, and sage, then mix well to incorporate the seasonings. After that, stir in the sautéed celery and onions, tossing everything together. Subsequently, add the eggs and cooled stock (if using homemade). Finally, mix gently to moisten the dry ingredients, but be cautious to avoid overmixing, as overmixing can develop gluten and cause the dressing to become tough after baking.
Bake Homemade Turkey Dressing to Perfection
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake the dish for 35-45 minutes. If it begins to over-brown, cover it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serve and Enjoy Homemade Turkey Dressing
Homemade turkey dressing made with fresh ingredients is a quintessential part of Thanksgiving celebrations. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and hearty dish that pairs perfectly with your roast turkey or chicken. Give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your holiday gatherings for years to come!
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Delicious Homemade Turkey Dressing: A Thanksgiving Classic
Equipment
- 9 x 13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 6 cups savory cornbread, crumbled (use your favorite recipe)
- 3 cups buttermilk biscuits, crumbled (use your favorite recipe)
- ½ teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon rubbed or ground sage (you can use more or less for your taste)
- 8 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 large celery stalks, chopped
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 cups turkey or chicken stock (plus extra if needed)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray the baking dish with cooking spray.
- Mix the bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and sage in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet. Add the onions and celery and saute until wilted.
- Add the vegetables to the dry ingredients and mix. Add the eggs and stock and stir just until moistened. The dressing should be loose and easy to stir. If not, add additional stock and stir.
- Add the mixture to the prepared pan and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes. If the dressing starts to over-brown, add a sheet of aluminum foil to the top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Notes
Cornbread Recipe
Click here for a cornbread recipe. You can use this recipe for the dressing recipe by omitting the sugar.Biscuit Recipe
Here is a biscuit recipe you can use for this dressing recipe.- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup butter or shortening
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Preheat oven to 475°F.
- Add the flour and butter to a large bowl and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut the butter into small pieces the size of small green peas.
- Pour in the buttermilk and stir just until the flour is moistened. Be careful not to over-stir.
- Drop large spoonfuls onto a baking sheet covered with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8 -10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven.