Paula Deen Recipe for Dressing That Everyone Will Love

If you’ve ever attended a Southern family gathering or holiday feast, you know that Paula Deen’s dressing is a dish that steals the show. This beloved recipe brings together the warmth of traditional Southern flavors with the comforting texture of a perfectly cooked dressing.

Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special Sunday dinner, this Paula Deen recipe for dressing will elevate your meal with its rich, buttery goodness and herb-infused aroma.

What makes this dressing truly special is the balance of savory herbs, the crisp texture from toasted bread cubes, and the creamy moisture from butter and broth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both nostalgic and timeless.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through making this classic Southern dressing, share useful tips for variations, and offer serving suggestions to complement your feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Paula Deen dressing recipe is a quintessential Southern classic that delivers on flavor and texture. You’ll love it because it’s:

• Rich and buttery: The generous use of butter infuses the bread with a luscious, moist texture that’s utterly satisfying.
• Herb-infused: Fresh sage, thyme, and parsley create a fragrant dressing bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side for turkey, chicken, or pork. It also pairs beautifully with vegetable dishes.
• Made from scratch: No canned soups or shortcuts here — just wholesome ingredients you’ll feel good about serving.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it the day before and bake it just in time for serving.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf day-old white bread (about 12 cups cubed)
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 2 cups celery, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: Cut the day-old white bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes until dry but not browned. This step ensures your dressing has the perfect texture without becoming soggy.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion, cooking until softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid browning.
3. Add the herbs: Stir in the fresh sage, thyme, and parsley. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the herbs release their fragrant aroma.
4. Combine bread and vegetables: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetables and herb mixture over the bread and stir gently to combine.
5. Add broth and eggs: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and then add the beaten eggs. Use a wooden spoon to toss everything together gently, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid evenly. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
6. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that broth can be salty, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Spread the dressing evenly in the dish and cover with foil.
8. Bake: Place the covered dish in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Rest and serve: Let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set for perfect slicing and scooping.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, try adding crumbled sausage or cooked bacon to the dressing mixture before baking.”

Here are some tips to take your Paula Deen dressing to the next level:

• Use day-old bread: Fresh bread tends to make the dressing mushy. Day-old bread or slightly toasted bread cubes ensure the right texture.
• Make it your own: Customize by adding sautéed mushrooms, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries for a festive twist.
• Herbs matter: Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor. If you use dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dressing mixture a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh on the day of your meal.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This Paula Deen dressing pairs wonderfully with traditional Southern mains. Consider serving it alongside:

• Herb-roasted turkey for the ultimate Thanksgiving centerpiece.
• Honey-glazed ham for sweet and savory balance.
• Southern fried chicken to keep things classic.
• Roasted green beans or collard greens for vibrant, fresh sides.
• Mashed sweet potatoes to complement the savory richness of the dressing.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s dressing recipe is a must-have for anyone looking to add authentic Southern comfort to their holiday table or family dinner. Its combination of buttery richness, fresh herbs, and perfectly toasted bread creates a memorable dish that guests will ask for year after year.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this recipe for the first time, the straightforward steps and accessible ingredients make it easy to prepare and enjoy.

Don’t hesitate to personalize the recipe with your favorite add-ins or serve it alongside your preferred main dishes for a meal full of warmth and flavor. With this recipe in your culinary arsenal, you’ll bring a little Southern hospitality to any occasion.

For more Southern-inspired recipes to complete your meal, check out our Classic Fried Chicken, Creamy Mashed Potatoes, and Homemade Pumpkin Pie recipes!

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