Meat Dressing
Meat Dressing is a hearty, flavorful stuffing mixture featuring tender ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and seasoned bread crumbs. Perfect for holiday dinners or family gatherings, its savory taste and moist texture complement traditional turkey or chicken dishes, making it a comforting centerpiece for festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve bouillon cubes in boiling water, then pour over stuffing crumbs and stir well.
- Saute chopped celery and onion in butter until tender.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the crumb mixture.
- Brown the ground meat and drain well.
- Stir the cooked meat and remaining ingredients into the crumb mixture.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth to moisten it.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 13x9x2 inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until browned.
- Serve with traditional turkey dinner.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats like beef and pork. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey can be a good substitute. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; try adding thyme or rosemary. Ensure the stuffing isn't too dry by adjusting the broth as needed. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This meat dressing pairs beautifully with traditional turkey dinner and can complement a variety of sides such as green bean casserole or cranberry sauce. For a complete meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes and gravy. It also works well as a hearty stuffing for bell peppers or as a filling for savory crepes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. It can also be microwaved in individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Dressing contains roughly 840 calories, with 18g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (84% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% 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 use a different type of stuffing?
Yes, you can use any type of stuffing mix you prefer, such as cornbread or herb stuffing. Just be sure to adjust the liquid according to the instructions on the package, as different mixes may require varying amounts of broth.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meat dressing in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It can also be frozen after baking, just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.
What can I serve with this dish?
This meat dressing goes well with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a twist, consider serving it alongside Chicken Salad Surprise for a delightful contrast in flavors. It’s also a great addition to any festive meal.
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).