Gluten-Free holiday dressing is one of the easiest gluten-free side dishes you can make—and the best part is that no one will be able to tell it’s gluten-free!
My family first started eating gluten-free to be an ally for my wife, who had been diagnosed with celiac disease. When Thanksgiving came around that first year, I committed to preparing one meal. I didn’t want to have to make two types of gravy and two types of dressing…and so on. Luckily, I discovered that dressing (or stuffing if you are preparing it in the turkey) is incredibly simple. All you have to do is swap out gluten-free bread for traditional wheat flour-based bread—nothing could be easier!
As a person who has spent decades cooking for my family, I’ve learned a thing or two about adapting recipes and rather than following rules, it’s about understanding flavors, textures, and possibilities. Some recipes seem untouchable, sacred in their traditional form. Take holiday dressing, for instance. It’s a dish we all love but many thought they’d have to give up due to gluten sensitivities. With simple reinvention, it transforms into a gluten-free version easy to make and delicious. With just one simple change, it’s back on the table for everyone to enjoy.
Is it dressing? Is it stuffing? Either way, it is gluten-free!
I remember the first time I made gluten-free holiday dressing. I was nervous, thinking it might taste different or have an odd texture. But to my surprise and delight, it turned out fantastic! The key, I found, is to use high-quality gluten-free bread. I prefer a mixture of white and whole grain gluten-free breads for the best flavor and texture.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with different herbs and spices to elevate the dish. A combination of sage, thyme, and rosemary gives it that classic Thanksgiving flavor we all cherish. I also like to add chopped celery and onions for extra crunch and depth.
One tip I always share with friends who are new to gluten-free cooking is not to be afraid to get creative! I’ve added Italian sausage and even made versions with chopped apples and golden raisins to my dressing for a sweet and tart twist that beautifully complements the savory herbs.
The best part about making gluten-free dressing is seeing the look on people’s faces when I tell them it’s gluten-free after they’ve already raved about how delicious it is. It’s a reminder that with a little effort and creativity, we can make food that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
So this holiday season, whether you call it dressing or stuffing, give my reinvented gluten-free dressing a try. You might just find it becomes a new family favorite!
Here’s a link to the CDC Guidelines if you want to prepare stuffing inside the bird.
Gluten Free Holiday Dressing Ingredient Descriptions
Bread Base
- 8-16 cups gluten-free bread cubes (¼ to ½ inch)
- Provides structure and absorbs flavors
- Ensures gluten-free compliance
- Allows customizable volume based on serving size
Aromatics
- 1-2 medium onions, chopped
- Adds depth of flavor
- Provides natural sweetness
- 2-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- Enhances overall taste profile
- Adds aromatic complexity
Protein & Fat
- ½ pound to 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- Adds richness and savory flavor
- Provides protein
- ½ – 1 cup butter
- Creates moisture
- Adds richness and flavor
Liquid Components
- 4-8 cups gluten-free stock (chicken, turkey, or vegetable)
- Provides moisture
- Enhances flavor
- Helps bind ingredients
Seasonings
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ – 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 teaspoons dried herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- Balanced seasoning
- Creates traditional holiday flavor profile
Binding
- 1-2 eggs
- Helps bind ingredients
- Provides structure
Optional Additions
- ½ – 1 cup of:
- Golden raisins (sweetness)
- Chopped water chestnuts (crunch)
- Chopped apple or pear (moisture and subtle sweetness)
Equipment Descriptions
Preparation Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Cooking Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing
Optional Equipment
- Food processor (for chopping)
- Thermometer (to check internal temperature)
Why You’ll Love Gluten Free Holiday Dressing
100% Gluten-Free
- This dressing is crafted entirely from gluten-free ingredients, allowing everyone at your Thanksgiving table to indulge without worry. It’s the perfect solution for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, ensuring that no one feels left out.
Incredibly Flavorful
- The rich umami flavor comes from the sautéed onions, garlic, and celery, which provide a savory base. Combined with the Italian sausage and aromatic herbs, each bite bursts with deliciousness. This dressing is so flavorful that no one will be able to tell it’s gluten-free!
Gluten Free Holiday Dressing is Customizable
- One of the best aspects of this dressing is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you prefer different types of sausage, want to add nuts for crunch, or enjoy dried fruits for sweetness, this recipe can be tailored to your taste.
Traditional Holiday Taste
- This dressing captures the essence of classic Thanksgiving flavors. With aromatic herbs like sage and thyme, along with the comforting taste of butter and stock, it brings that nostalgic holiday spirit to your meal.
Easy to Prepare
- With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks. The process is simple enough to allow you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with family while it bakes.
Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
- This dressing is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering! Its appealing flavors and textures make it a favorite among both gluten-free and non-gluten-free diners alike. You won’t have to prepare two different versions; everyone will love this one!
Gluten Free Holiday Dressing Accommodates Various Dietary Needs
- In addition to being gluten-free, this recipe can easily be adapted for other dietary preferences. With simple substitutions, you can create a vegetarian or dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor. This makes it a great option for diverse gatherings where guests may have different dietary restrictions.
In summary, this gluten-free holiday dressing is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Its delicious flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a must-have for your holiday feast! Plus, you’ll love that you don’t have to prepare two different versions—everyone will enjoy this delightful dish!
Gluten-Free Holiday Dressing Recipe
Description
I’m thrilled to share a recipe that has become a beloved staple in our home—Gluten-Free Holiday Dressing. This dish is more than just a recipe; it evokes memories of joyful family gatherings, where the comforting aroma of dressing filled the air during Thanksgiving. Now, as a husband and father, I’ve embraced this tradition by creating a gluten-free version that my family truly loves. It’s a wonderful way to bring everyone together around the table, allowing us to savor the flavors we cherish while accommodating dietary needs.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preparing the bread cubes
- 1-2 days before your meal, cut gluten-free bread into ¼ to ½ inch cubes.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Place the cubed bread on a rimmed cookie sheet in a 300°F oven. Place in a preheated oven for 10 minutes, then toss. Repeat this until the bread cubes are dry.
- Alternatively, place cubed bread on a rimmed cookie sheet in a single layer and set on your counter to dry. (This method will take several days.)
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Preparing the dressing
Gather your ingredients and preheat the oven to 375°F; grease your baking dish. A 9X9" dish works well for this recipe. If you double the recipe, use a 9x13" pan.
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In a large skillet, heat 2-4 tablespoons of olive oil and 1-2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and celery to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned. This step enhances the umami flavor.
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Add Italian sausage to the skillet and sauté until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sausage mixture, then a</span>dd herbs, salt, pepper, and optional ingredients.
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Melt butter and combine with the stock; Pour butter/stock over mixture, stir to combine. Then add the beaten eggs, mix thoroughly.
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Transfer to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil, bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Note
Kosher Salt
You can use kosher salt in this recipe; however, the crystal of table salt and kosher salt are not the same. So a teaspoon of one is not the same as a teaspoon of the other. Here are equivalents for two commonly available kosher salt brands.
To Replace: 1 teaspoon table salt
- 2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Morton Kosher Sal
