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Oyster Dressing

A savory and comforting side dish combining fresh oysters, day-old bread, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, baked to golden perfection.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pint fresh oysters drained and chopped
  • 6 cups day-old bread cubed
  • 1 cup celery finely chopped
  • 1 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cut 6 cups of day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Melt 1/4 cup of the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped celery and onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the chopped oysters to the mixing bowl with the bread cubes and sautéed vegetables.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried sage, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour in 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, stirring gently to combine and ensure even moisture distribution.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup melted butter on top.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Let the dressing rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted nuts or breadcrumbs on top before baking. Can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.