Southern Homemade Turkey Dressing

Southern Homemade Turkey Dressing: The Best Ever (Gluten-Free & Moist!)

This Southern Homemade Turkey Dressing is delicious and gluten free. When it comes to holiday meals, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of Southern homemade turkey dressing. This recipe promises a decadent, moist dressing that’s packed with flavor, making it the perfect complement to your turkey and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s completely gluten-free, using cornbread as the base to create a rich, savory dish with just the right amount of herb-infused goodness.

Imagine the kitchen filled with the mouth-watering aromas of savory herbs, onions, and rich turkey drippings. This turkey dressing will not only bring warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table, but its moist texture and bold flavors will have you ditching the boxed mixes for good. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving or a Sunday family dinner, this homemade dressing will soon become a cherished tradition in your home.

Growing up in the South, turkey dressing was more than just a side dish—it was a centerpiece of our holiday feasts. Each bite of this flavorful dressing, soaked in turkey drippings, brought us together around the table, sharing stories and memories. Made with gluten-free cornbread and seasoned to perfection, this dish brings a bit of Southern hospitality to every bite, and it’s guaranteed to be the star of your next holiday meal.

A Brief History of Turkey Dressing & Serving Suggestions

Turkey dressing has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, evolving with regional flavors and family preferences. While cornbread dressing is the most iconic version, some Southern families add sausage, nuts, or even oysters to give their dressing a unique twist. This recipe offers a traditional take with a gluten-free spin, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor. Pair this turkey dressing with creamy mashed potatoes, green beans almondine, and a chilled glass of sweet tea or crisp white wine for a truly Southern meal.

Southern Homemade Turkey Dressing (Gluten-Free)

Ingredients

4 cups crumbled gluten-free cornbread (homemade cornbread recipe here)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups turkey or chicken broth
1/4 cup turkey drippings (optional, but adds great flavor)
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the dried sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled gluten-free cornbread with the cooked vegetable mixture.
5. Pour in the turkey broth and turkey drippings (if using), stirring until the bread has absorbed the liquid. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth until it’s moist but not soggy.
6. Add the beaten eggs and fresh parsley, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
7. Transfer the dressing mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
9. Let the dressing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the dressing mixture as directed above, then transfer to a greased, air fryer-safe dish that fits into your air fryer.
3. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the top is golden and crispy. If needed, cover with foil during the first 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.
4. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• If you don’t have turkey drippings, chicken drippings or broth will work just fine.
• For a more decadent dressing, you can mix in some crumbled sausage or diced bacon.
• This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 215
Fat: 14g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 450mg
Serving size: 1/8th of the recipe (approximately 1/2 cup)

Other Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Equipment Used: Oven or Air fryer, large skillet, baking dish (9×13), mixing bowls

Estimated Cost per Serving: $1.50
Total Cost: $12.00 (serves 8)

In Conclusion, Southern Homemade Turkey Dressing

This Southern homemade turkey dressing is a must-try for any occasion, especially when you’re craving the comforting flavors of the South. Gluten-free and perfectly moist, this recipe will leave everyone at your table asking for seconds. Ditch the boxed mixes and create a dish that’s as close to home as it gets. Enjoy the warm, herb-infused flavors with your holiday turkey, and savor the comfort of Southern cooking at its finest.

Check out these decadent dessert recipes here.