Bob Evans’ bread and celery dressing has become a holiday staple for countless families across America. This savory side dish combines the perfect balance of herbs, vegetables, and seasoned bread to create a comforting accompaniment that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or any festive meal.
Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or discovering this classic for the first time, this homemade version captures all the flavors that make Bob Evans dressing so beloved. The recipe is surprisingly simple and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the bread base:
- 8 cups day-old white bread, cubed (crusts removed)
- 2 cups diced celery
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups chicken broth (warm)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting your day-old bread into small, uniform cubes. Fresh bread works too, but letting it sit out for a few hours helps achieve the right texture. Remove the crusts for a smoother consistency, though leaving them on adds rustic charm.
Sauté the Vegetables
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced celery and chopped onion, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. The celery should maintain a slight crunch while the onions turn translucent.
Combine and Season
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables. Add all the dried herbs and seasonings, mixing thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.
Add Moisture
Gradually pour the warm chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently as you go. The bread should absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. Follow with the beaten eggs, which help bind everything together during baking.
Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the top develops a golden-brown crust and the center feels firm when pressed lightly.
Tips for the Perfect Dressing
The key to authentic Bob Evans-style dressing lies in the texture and seasoning balance. Avoid overmixing once you add the liquid ingredients, as this can result in a mushy consistency. The finished dressing should hold together when scooped but remain moist throughout.
For extra richness, substitute half the chicken broth with turkey drippings if available. Some cooks prefer adding a handful of fresh parsley for color, though the traditional version keeps things simple.
Make-ahead tip: Assemble the dressing up to one day before baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if needed.
Your Holiday Table Awaits
This Bob Evans-inspired bread and celery dressing brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The combination of herbs creates that distinctive taste families have loved for generations, while the straightforward preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Serve alongside your favorite holiday dishes and watch as this humble side dish becomes the unexpected star of your meal. The leftovers, if there are any, make an excellent base for turkey sandwiches or can be reheated with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
