Description

This classic Oyster Dressing recipe combines tender oysters with savory herbs and spices, enveloped in buttery sautéed celery and onions, mixed with day-old bread cubes, then baked to a golden, flavorful stuffing. Perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday meals or anytime you crave a rich, seafood-infused dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Herbs

1 celery rib, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Spices and Seasonings

1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/8 teaspoon rubbed sage
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Dairy and Eggs

1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 large egg, beaten

Other Ingredients

3 cups cubed day-old bread
2/3 cup chicken broth
1 cup shucked oysters, drained and coarsely chopped

Instructions

Sauté vegetables: In a small skillet, heat the cubed butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped celery rib and onion until they become tender and translucent, releasing their flavors.
Mix herbs and seasonings: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the minced fresh parsley, poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, and pepper. Stir these ingredients until evenly distributed.
Add bread cubes: Incorporate the cubed day-old bread into the vegetable mixture, stirring gently to combine all components.
Prepare oyster mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the beaten egg, chicken broth, and coarsely chopped oysters. Mix well to create a moist seafood mixture.
Combine all ingredients: Pour the oyster mixture over the bread and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly mixed without breaking up the bread cubes too much.
Prepare for baking: Grease a 1-quart baking dish. Transfer the dressing mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
Bake covered: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes while covered to allow flavors to meld and the mixture to heat thoroughly.
Bake uncovered: Remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the top is lightly browned and slightly crisp.

Notes

Using day-old bread is essential to absorb the moisture and flavors without making the dressing soggy.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Ensure oysters are fresh and properly drained before chopping to maintain the dressing’s texture.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of melted butter on top before baking uncovered.
Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature for food safety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: oyster dressing recipe, oyster stuffing, holiday stuffing, baked oyster side dish, seafood dressing, Thanksgiving side