Ground Meat Dressing
A hearty ground meat dressing packed with savory herbs and vegetables, perfect for stuffing or serving as a main dish for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onions, celery, bell pepper, and green onions.
- In a large pot, cook the ground round until browned, skimming off excess grease.
- Add the chopped vegetables and cook for about 15 minutes.
- Wet the stale French bread and wring it almost dry.
- Chop the bread into small pieces and slowly add to the dressing mixture.
- Do not add so much bread that the dressing becomes dry.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the mixture on low fire for about 1 hour.
- After cooking, add 1 stick of butter to the dressing.
- If the dressing is too wet, add Italian bread crumbs to adjust consistency.
- Once cooled, beat one egg and add it to the dressing before stuffing into a bird or baking dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding herbs like sage or rosemary to the mix. If you don’t have stale French bread, day-old Italian bread works well as a substitute. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to use different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter option. This dressing can also be spiced with a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Meat Dressing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it an ideal side for holiday feasts. Serve alongside classic sides like Brown Sugar Green Beans or Betty Lou's Potato Salad for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider stuffing it into bell peppers and baking until tender, creating a delicious and comforting dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dressing in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Meat Dressing contains roughly 1072 calories, with 59g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (119% of the Daily Value), iron (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of adding the egg. Store it in the refrigerator, and just before stuffing it into a bird or baking, mix in the egg to bind everything together.
Can I freeze the dressing?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dressing cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add moisture as needed to maintain the texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).