Old Fashioned Sage Dressing

Old Fashioned Sage Dressing is crafted with only six simple ingredients, offering a swift and flavorsome dish. A classic meat dressing that showcases the essence of old-fashioned recipes and is sure to become a cherished favorite. Gluten-free instructions are included.

Each family has its unique approach to dressing. When I experienced Thanksgiving with my husband’s family for the first time, his mother’s dressing won my heart. It differed greatly from my mom’s make-ahead stuffing but held its own delightful and distinct deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, diced
• 2-4 ribs celery, diced
• 2 pounds ground chuck
• 12 cups chicken broth
• 2 sticks butter
• 3 bags Sage and Onion Bread Cubes 

How to Make

Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F to initiate the cooking process.

Start by finely dicing one large onion and 2-4 ribs of celery. Following this, in a medium-sized skillet, introduce these vegetables alongside 2 pounds of ground chuck, cooking them until the beef is thoroughly browned.

Simultaneously, in a large pot, combine 12 cups of chicken broth and 2 sticks of butter. Heat this mixture until the butter is completely melted, creating a rich and flavorful base for the dressing.

As the ingredients are prepared:

Ready a roasting pan and place three bags of Sage and Onion Bread Cubes or opt for Aleia’s gluten-free Savory alternative. Pour the previously prepared broth and butter concoction over the bread cubes. Then, add the cooked beef mixture and gently stir, ensuring all components are well combined.

Transfer the roasting pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-45 minutes, or until the bread achieves a delightful golden-brown hue. Be cautious not to over-stir the mixture after baking to preserve its texture and layers of flavors.

Once the dressing is cooked to perfection, serve it hot and relish in the delightful combination of savory flavors.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Selecting Bread: If you can’t find pre-seasoned Sage and Onion Bread Cubes, you can use any hearty, seasoned bread. Dry out the bread cubes by toasting them in the oven before preparing the dressing. This helps them absorb the flavors more effectively.
• Mixing and Absorption: Allow the bread cubes to absorb the broth mixture adequately. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to ensure the bread soaks up the flavors evenly. This step can be crucial for a moist and flavorful end result.
• Customize Flavors: Consider adding additional herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. Sage, thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Variations: When opting for gluten-free alternatives, ensure all ingredients, especially the bread cubes and broth, are certified gluten-free. Cornbread or other gluten-free bread cubes can be excellent substitutes.
• Texture and Doneness: Check the dressing’s doneness by observing the color and texture of the bread cubes. Ensure they are adequately browned and crisp on the top while remaining moist within.
• Maintain Moisture: If the dressing seems dry during baking, cover the roasting pan with foil to retain moisture. Conversely, if it’s too moist, leave it uncovered for the last few minutes of baking to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dressing sit for a few minutes after it’s out of the oven. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
• Presentation: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or sage leaves on top

FAQ

Storage Instructions

After preparing Old-Fashioned Sage Dressing, allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer the remaining dressing to an airtight container or seal it in a resealable plastic bag, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the dressing within two hours of cooking. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it should remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.

For longer-term storage, the dressing can be frozen. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw frozen dressing in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat in the oven, covered with foil, to retain moisture and prevent drying.