Old Fashioned Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe

This old fashioned Thanksgiving dressing recipe brings the heartwarming essence of Thanksgiving to the table. With wholesome sautéd vegetables, tender sausage, and slightly sweet apples, this recipe embodies the flavors of fall that leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

Made in under 40 minutes it's easy yet impressive. So whether you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner or having a cozy family dinner, this stuffing makes a nostalgic, yet easy, homely side dish.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its ability to bring that homemade, grandma's cooking, feel to the table. But, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Any easy, yet wholesome recipe, that cooks of all levels can chef up in no time.

Dig into this stuffing recipe for a delightful combination of textures and tastes that pair well with almost any Thanksgiving main dish. The toasted bread has a satisfying crunch contrasted with tender sausage and vegetables. Pair with the classic roast turkey, Thanksgiving ham, homemade corn bread, mashed potatoes, and wash down with the best Thanksgiving punch.

Although this easy side dish is perfect for the holiday season, it's not limited to just Thanksgiving. The just like this fall charcuterie board, the versatility extends beyond the Thanksgiving table by making a great side or main for potlucks, family dinners, or any special occasion.

Why you'll love this recipe

• It has a timeless flavor that brings the authentic taste of thanksgiving with every mouthful.
• With easy steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible to experienced cooks and beginners.
• Whether a side dish or a main course, it's the star attraction at the Thanksgiving table.
• There are tons of different ways to customize this recipe for your liking.

What you'll need for this Thanksgiving stuffing

• Sausage - This brings a savory depth to the dish while also adding a source of protein.
• Bread - Bread provides the base to this recipe, absorbing all the juicy flavors. Day-old bread works best but you can use whatever type you like.
• Chicken broth - This ensures the dressing turns our moist with a rich taste.
• Apples - You can use dried apple chips or fresh diced apples. While Granny Smith and fuji varieties are my favorites, any will do.
• Veggies - Fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and Brussels sprouts not only are packed with a variety of nutrients, but they also add a pop of color and flavor.
• Butter - Can swap for vegan butter, olive oil, or avocado oil.
• Spices - My go-to's are onion powder, sea salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary but feel free to throw in some of your favorite spices or fresh herbs.

What type of bread works best for traditional stuffing?

For this classic stuffing recipe, there are many different types of bread that will work. I prefer to use sourdough bread, french bread, or white bread but you can use any kind of bread.

It is important to note that stale bread will work best at absorbing moisture while maintaining texture so let your bread sit out for a day if you can. I do not recommend using bread crumbs in place of homemade dry bread cubes. 

Can I use a different type of sausage for this homemade stuffing recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with spicy Italian sausage, sage-infused sausage, or plant-based sausage for different flavor profiles. Some sausages may have different fat contents so it's important to drain any excess grease.

How to make old fashioned thanksgiving dressing

Step 1: Fry

In a large skillet, fry the sausage with seasoning. Then add butter, vegetables, and rosemary until veggies are softened and the sausage is cooked.

Step 2: Bread

Dice the bread into small pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 3: Bake

Place bread and sausage mixture into a large casserole dish. Pour chicken broth over everything and bake for 35 minutes.

Pro tip: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and the flavors to meld together, for a more cohesive dish.

Variations

There are tons of different ways to customize this recipe to your liking. You can also easily cater to any dietary restrictions.

• Gluten-free - Make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. I think that gluten-free sourdough bread works best but any will do.
• Dairy-free - For a dairy free stuffing recipe, swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil.
• Vegetarian - Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the sausage for a vegetarian stuffing. If you omit the sausage you won't need as much liquid. 
• Additional ingredients - Shallots, celery, fresh sage, chestnuts, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, peppers, and diced potatoes make great additions to this easy dressing recipe. These ingredients are optional and up to personal preferences. 

Storage

Storing - Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let the dressing cool to room temperature before storing. Reheat in a skillet with butter and chicken stock or in the microwave.

Freezing - You can freeze leftover dressing in a freezer bag or airtight container for 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or stovetop when you're ready to serve.

More recipes you'll love

• This pumpkin feta dip is a fun fall recipe that everyone will love.
• If you're looking for something unique, try one of our seafood Thanksgiving ideas.
• This white chocolate Christmas crack is a Christmas favorite but makes a great Thanksgiving dessert idea as well!
• What's a holiday dinner without fun sparkling non-alcoholic drinks that everyone can enjoy.