Simple Turkey Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of homemade holiday cooking without being complicated. It uses just a few ingredients but delivers incredible flavor. The buttery sautéed vegetables blend beautifully with the seasoned bread cubes, and the sage adds that signature Thanksgiving aroma. It’s easy to customize, make ahead, and even adapt to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 cups of bread cubes (day-old bread preferred)
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 tablespoon dried sage
½ cup unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. I cut day-old bread into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. In a skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat, then add the onion and celery. I sauté them for about 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

4. I stir in the sage, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute or two to let the flavors bloom.

5. I pour the sautéed vegetable mixture over the bread cubes and mix everything well.

6. I gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until all the bread cubes are evenly moistened but not soggy.

7. I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down gently so it bakes evenly.

8. I bake the dressing for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crisp.

9. I let it cool for a few minutes before serving warm alongside turkey, gravy, and all the other classic fixings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings and takes about 45 minutes in total—15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday roasts, or as a cozy side dish any time of year.

Variations

• I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.

• For a sweeter touch, I mix in dried cranberries or diced apples.

• I occasionally replace half of the bread with cornbread for a Southern twist.

• To make it more savory, I add a pinch of thyme or poultry seasoning along with the sage.

• I’ve even stirred in cooked sausage or bacon for an extra-hearty version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. If I want to restore that crispy top, I uncover it for the last few minutes of reheating. The dressing also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dressing a day before serving. I assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, I bake it just before the meal.

What type of bread works best?

I prefer day-old white or French bread because it absorbs flavor well without becoming too mushy. Whole wheat or sourdough also work great for a heartier texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. I replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and it tastes just as rich and delicious.

How do I make the top extra crispy?

I broil the dressing for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking or drizzle a little melted butter over the top before baking.

Can I add meat to this dressing?

Yes, I sometimes mix in cooked sausage, turkey, or bacon for a more filling version—it adds a delicious savory depth.

Conclusion

I love how this Simple Turkey Dressing brings warmth and nostalgia to every holiday table. With buttery bread cubes, aromatic sage, and a perfectly soft yet crispy texture, it’s the kind of side dish that always disappears fast. Whether I’m making it for Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, it’s a simple, flavorful recipe that feels like home every single time.

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