Oyster Dressing (Stuffing)

If you've never tried oyster dressing, it's time to remedy that ASAP. This recipe produces a moist, flavorful side dish every time.

What Is Oyster Dressing?

Oyster dressing (or stuffing) is a dish that consists of bread, oysters, and lots of spices and seasonings. The Thanksgiving side is popular in coastal areas, as fresh oysters are usually cheap and plentiful. While some people choose to stuff this flavorful mixture inside the bird, most people opt to enjoy it as a side dish.

How to Make Oyster Dressing

You'll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here's a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this old-fashioned oyster dressing:

Cook the vegetables in a large skillet until they're tender. Stir in the bread crumbs and parsley, then remove from the heat. Add the oysters, eggs, salt, poultry seasoning, thyme, and pepper. Moisten the mixture with liquid from the oysters. Transfer to a greased casserole dish and bake until the top is toasted and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can You Make Oyster Dressing Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make oyster dressing in advance. Store the cooled, covered dressing in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Reheat gently, covered with foil, in the oven until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10 or so minutes of baking.

Can You Freeze Oyster Dressing?

Yes, you can freeze oyster dressing. Cook according to the directions in a foil pan and allow to cool completely. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

"I added some sage and rosemary to mine and poured some extra chicken broth on it," says one Cookdap community member. "It turned out great and stayed moist."

“This was very good,” raves Michie. “It was a hit at my Thanksgiving table. I used canned oysters. It was still great.”

“I added a tube of sweet thyme sausage that I ground and browned first, then cooked the onions and celery in the sausage fat that I drained off of the meat,” says rlburns1222. “The sausage made it really robust — almost casserole-like.”