Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe
his classic Southern cornbread dressing is a flavorful and comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals or family dinners. Made with crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, herbs, and chicken broth, it delivers the perfect balance of moist and savory with a hint of rustic charm. Whether you're preparing for Thanksgiving or a casual family gathering, this dressing is a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and gravies.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cornbread crumbled
- 4 slices of white bread crumbled
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 2-3 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried sage optional for a deeper flavor
- 1 tablespoon butter for sautéing
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread and Bread
- Start by making your cornbread, either from scratch or using a pre-made mix. Once baked, allow it to cool before crumbling it into a large mixing bowl. You can do this step a day ahead for convenience. Crumble the white bread and add it to the bowl with the cornbread.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onions, cooking until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. These vegetables add both flavor and moisture to the dressing, so be sure not to skip this step.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- In the large mixing bowl with your cornbread and white bread crumbs, add the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth gradually, mixing until the bread mixture reaches your desired consistency. Ensure the mixture is moist without being overly saturated. For a drier consistency, reduce the amount of broth used.Add in the beaten eggs, salt, pepper, sage (if using), thyme, poultry seasoning, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with oil or butter and pour the dressing mixture into it. Evenly distribute the mixture using a spoon or spatula.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the cornbread dressing in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The inside should be moist, but the edges should have a nice crust. If you prefer a softer dressing, cover the dish with foil during the first 30 minutes of baking. For a crispier top, leave the foil off.
Notes
- Add sausage: For a heartier dish, add cooked, crumbled sausage to the mix. Spicy sausage adds a nice kick of flavor.
- Incorporate dried fruit: Some people like to add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness. It contrasts beautifully with the savory ingredients.
- Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and substitute gluten-free bread for the white bread. The result is just as delicious and perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the sausage for a vegetarian-friendly version.