Chestnut Dressing

chestnut dressing in a white baking dish
Photo Credit
Samantha Jones/Vaughn Communications
Written By: The Editors The Old Farmer's Almanac
Yield
Makes 11 cups.
Category
Course
Credit
The Old Farmer's Almanac

Chestnut dressing is a timeless holiday favorite that brings warmth and depth to any seasonal table. Made with buttery sautéed onions and celery, fragrant herbs, and tender roasted chestnuts folded into soft bread crumbs, this dish delivers a rich, slightly nutty flavor that feels both rustic and comforting. Whether served alongside roast turkey or enjoyed as a standalone side, this chestnut dressing recipe is a simple yet elegant addition to your fall or winter menu.

Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds chestnuts
1 cup (2 sticks) butter
1-1/2 cups diced celery
1 cup chopped onion
2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
8 cups fresh bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. With the tip of a sharp knife, make an “X” in the flat side of each chestnut. Place chestnuts in a 3-quart saucepan and cover with water. Heat to boiling and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat, and using a slotted spoon, remove chestnuts from pan. Remove shells and skins, and chop nuts coarsely. Set aside.
  2. In a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat, melt butter. Add celery, onions, salt, thyme, oregano, and pepper.
  3. Cook for 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Stir in chestnuts and bread crumbs.

About The Author
The Editors

The Editors

The Old Farmer's Almanac

Under the guiding hand of its first editor, Robert B. Thomas, the premiere issue of The Old Farmer’s Almanac was published in 1792 during George Washington’s first term as president.Today, the Almanac...