Get ready to transform your holiday table with a recipe that's been passed down through generations and will make your guests beg for seconds! Ma Clarke's Turkey Dressing isn't just another side dish—it's a culinary journey that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort and traditional American flavor. With perfectly toasted bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and a rich, savory profile, this dressing promises to be the star of your meal that everyone will be talking about.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into small, uniform cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size. Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and let them sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to dry out slightly, which helps create a better texture in the dressing.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the sautéed vegetables, stirring to distribute the herbs evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable mixture. Gently toss to ensure even distribution.
- Slowly pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring carefully to moisten the bread without making it soggy. The bread should be damp but not saturated.
- Transfer the dressing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and lightly pressing it down.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to set.
Tips
- Use day-old bread for the best texture: Slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better and creates a more authentic dressing.
- Don't skip the bread drying step: Letting bread cubes sit out helps prevent a mushy consistency.
- Sauté vegetables thoroughly: Ensure onions and celery are soft and translucent to release maximum flavor.
- Add broth gradually: Pour chicken broth slowly and mix carefully to control moisture level.
- For extra richness, consider adding some chopped herbs like fresh parsley or a splash of white wine.
- Cover while baking initially to keep moisture, then uncover to achieve a crispy golden top.
- Let the dressing rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and set properly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
