Description
This classic Oyster Dressing recipe combines tender oysters, fresh herbs, and savory seasonings with day-old bread to create a moist and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday meals or Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 celery rib, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Spices & Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dairy & Eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, cubed
- 1 large egg, beaten
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cubed day-old bread
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shucked oysters, drained and coarsely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: In a skillet, melt the 1/4 cup of cubed butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the minced fresh parsley, poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, and pepper. Cook for another minute to release the fragrances of the herbs and spices.
- Combine Bread and Broth: In a large mixing bowl, place the 3 cups of cubed day-old bread. Pour the 2/3 cup of chicken broth over the bread to moisten it evenly, then gently toss until the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Mix in Cooked Vegetables and Oysters: Add the sautéed vegetable mixture and 1 cup of coarsely chopped oysters to the moistened bread. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mashing the bread.
- Incorporate Egg: Pour the beaten egg over the mixture and mix gently to bind the dressing components together. The egg helps hold the dressing structure during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake the Dressing: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dressing uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for the best texture that soaks up liquids without becoming mushy.
- Drain oysters well to avoid excess moisture in the dressing.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this dish milder or for dietary preferences.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of oyster liquor with the oysters if you like a stronger oyster taste.
- This dressing is best served warm as a side with roasted meats or poultry.
Keywords: Oyster dressing, oyster stuffing, Southern dressing recipe, holiday side dish, bread stuffing with oysters