Infused with **sautéed celery and onions**, fragrant sage, and a generous splash of flavorful **chicken stock**, this dressing is comfort food at its finest. It’s a **must-have** side dish for **Thanksgiving, Christmas**, or any celebratory Southern table.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Dressing

• Classic, Homestyle Flavor – Nostalgic and delicious, just like Grandma’s holiday table.
• Perfectly Moist & Fluffy – Balanced with just the right amount of eggs and broth.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stress-free prep for busy holidays.
• Customizable – Easily add sausage, oysters, or extra herbs for your signature twist.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

• 6 cups crumbled cornbread – The hearty, slightly sweet base of the dish that absorbs the flavors and gives structure.
• 4 slices stale white bread, torn – Adds softness and helps bind the dressing without overpowering the cornbread.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – Provides rich flavor and is used to sauté the vegetables for depth.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped celery – Adds texture and freshness to the dressing.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped onions – Brings sweetness and classic aromatic flavor when sautéed in butter.
• 2 teaspoons ground sage – Essential for that distinct Southern dressing taste; earthy and aromatic.
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning – A mix of herbs that enhances the savory profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Balances the overall flavor.
• 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps hold everything together and adds moisture.
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken stock – The key liquid component that keeps the dressing moist and flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish or a large cast iron skillet.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery and onions; sauté until soft and translucent (about 10 minutes).
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, torn white bread, sautéed vegetables, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the beaten eggs, then gradually add chicken stock until the mixture is very moist but not soupy.
5. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Pat down lightly with a spoon or spatula.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing

• Use day-old or dry cornbread for best texture—fresh bread can make the dressing too mushy.
• Don’t skip the butter sauté – It enhances the flavor and ensures tender vegetables.
• Add stock slowly – The mixture should be wet but hold its shape when pressed.
• Want extra depth? Use homemade chicken stock or add a splash of turkey drippings.

Serving Suggestions

This **Southern Cornbread Dressing** pairs beautifully with:

• **Roast Turkey** or **Baked Ham**
• **Smothered Chicken** with gravy
• **Sweet Potato Casserole** or **Green Beans with Bacon**
• A drizzle of **giblet gravy** for the ultimate Southern touch

Make It Ahead

You can prep the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature and bake as directed.

Conclusion: A Southern Classic That Never Fails

This **Best Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe** is the heart of any holiday meal. With its **moist texture**, **savory seasoning**, and irresistible **homestyle flavor**, it’s no wonder this dish has graced tables for generations. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday supper, this is a recipe you’ll reach for time and time again.

Simple, soulful, and satisfying — this is Southern comfort at its finest.