Get ready to revolutionize your holiday feast with Rick's Updated Thanksgiving Dressing - a mouthwatering side dish that will have your guests begging for seconds! This isn't just another boring stuffing recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances traditional flavors with a modern twist. Imagine tender, crispy bread cubes infused with aromatic sage, sweet dried cranberries, and perfectly sautéed vegetables that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a holiday cooking novice, this recipe is about to become your new family favorite!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cube the bread into approximately 1-inch pieces and spread them out on a large baking sheet. Allow the bread cubes to air dry for about 1-2 hours, or alternatively, toast them lightly in the oven for 10-15 minutes until they are slightly crisp.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed onions and celery, dried cranberries, and sage. Gently mix the ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Gradually pour the vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring carefully to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming soggy. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the dressing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Tips
- Bread is the Foundation: Use day-old bread or deliberately dry out fresh bread cubes to prevent a mushy texture. Toasting them lightly enhances the flavor and helps them absorb the broth perfectly.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and celery. This builds a deep, rich flavor base for your entire dish.
- Moisture is Key: Add vegetable broth gradually and carefully. You want the mixture moist but not soggy - think of a perfectly damp sponge, not a swimming pool!
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, or swap dried cranberries for nuts for a different texture.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the dressing rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the texture set perfectly. Pro Chef Secret: For an extra crispy top, remove the foil in the last 15-20 minutes of baking and watch it transform into a golden, crunchy masterpiece!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
