
Thanksgiving Turkey Dressing, often called stuffing when cooked inside the bird, is a savory baked side dish traditionally served alongside turkey during American Thanksgiving meals. It typically consists of cubed bread (like cornbread or white bread) mixed with onions, celery, herbs such as sage and thyme, and a flavorful broth or stock, sometimes enriched with sausage, oysters, or dried fruits.
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the bread base, with moderate fat content depending on added ingredients like butter or sausage, and provides some protein from broth or meat additions. A standard one-cup serving usually ranges from 300 to 400 calories, offering B vitamins and minerals like iron from enriched bread and herbs.
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 220 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Calcium | 90 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.3 mg |
| Folate | 45 mcg DFE |
| Selenium | 12 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, dressing represents a resourceful tradition of utilizing bread scraps to create a hearty accompaniment, symbolizing gratitude and abundance. Nutritionally, its high carbohydrate content can provide quick energy, making it a comforting, filling component of a celebratory feast.