Recipe

Best Southern Cornbread Dressing

3 months ago
by admin
Written by admin

 

The Best Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe – A Classic Holiday Favorite

Few dishes capture the essence of a Southern holiday like a warm, golden-baked cornbread dressing. Unlike traditional stuffing made with white bread, this recipe begins with crumbled homemade cornbread, forming a rich, buttery base that perfectly absorbs savory seasonings and flavorful chicken stock. Its comforting aroma fills the kitchen and brings everyone to the table, ready to indulge in a dish that embodies Southern tradition and homestyle warmth.

Infused with sautéed celery and onions, fragrant sage, and a careful balance of spices, this dressing is hearty, tender, and irresistibly flavorful. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a celebratory Sunday supper, it’s a dish that pleases the entire family and becomes a staple in your holiday repertoire.

Nothing says Southern holidays like a golden cornbread dressing straight from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Dressing

  • Classic, Homestyle Flavor: Nostalgic and delicious, reminiscent of Grandma’s holiday table.
  • Perfectly Moist & Fluffy: Balanced with just the right amount of eggs and chicken stock for tender, yet structured dressing.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be assembled a day in advance, saving time during busy holiday cooking.
  • Customizable: Easily add cooked sausage, oysters, or extra herbs to create your signature version.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

  • 6 cups crumbled cornbread – Provides a slightly sweet, hearty base that absorbs flavors and gives structure to the dressing.
  • 4 slices stale white bread, torn – Adds softness and helps bind the dressing without overpowering the cornbread.
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – Used to sauté vegetables, adding rich flavor and depth to the dish.
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped celery – Adds freshness, a light crunch, and classic flavor balance to the buttery cornbread.
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped onions – Provides sweetness and aroma when sautéed, a cornerstone of Southern cornbread dressing flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons ground sage – Essential herb for that distinctive Southern taste; earthy and aromatic.
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the savory profile and complements chicken or turkey.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Balances all the flavors, ensuring a well-seasoned dressing.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten – Provides structure, binds the ingredients together, and adds moisture.
  • 2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken stock – Keeps the dressing moist and flavorful, ensuring it’s tender but not watery.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.
  2. Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onions, cooking until soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. This step enhances the depth and sweetness of the dressing.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place crumbled cornbread and torn white bread. Add the sautéed vegetables, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
  4. Add eggs: Stir in the beaten eggs to bind the mixture. This ensures the dressing will hold its shape while baking.
  5. Incorporate chicken stock: Gradually pour in 2 1/2 to 3 cups of chicken stock. Mix gently until the dressing is moist but not soupy. Adjust stock as needed for a tender, well-balanced consistency.
  6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and lightly pat down with a spoon or spatula for even baking.
  7. Bake uncovered: Place in the oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The edges should be slightly crisp, giving a delightful contrast to the soft interior.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing

  • Use day-old or dry cornbread: Fresh cornbread can make the dressing too mushy; dry bread absorbs flavors better.
  • Don’t skip sautéing vegetables: Butter sautéed celery and onions add sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • Add stock gradually: The mixture should be wet but still hold its shape when pressed. This prevents soggy or overly dense dressing.
  • Enhance flavor: For richer taste, use homemade chicken stock or a splash of turkey drippings.
  • Customize easily: Mix in cooked sausage, oysters, or additional herbs for a unique family version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with roast turkey or baked ham for a traditional Southern holiday plate.
  • Serve alongside smothered chicken with gravy for a comforting dinner.
  • Add to a spread with sweet potato casserole or green beans with bacon for a classic Southern combination.
  • Top with a drizzle of giblet gravy to enhance richness and bring all flavors together.

Make It Ahead

This cornbread dressing can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine all ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking. This make-ahead method reduces stress during holiday cooking while maintaining flavor and texture.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This Southern Cornbread Dressing has stood the test of time because it is comforting, flavorful, and flexible. Its golden, fluffy texture combined with savory, aromatic herbs makes it a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. The combination of cornbread and white bread ensures it is moist but not overly dense, while eggs and chicken stock bind everything perfectly. Families return to this classic recipe year after year because it brings nostalgia, flavor, and satisfaction to every bite.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Southern Dressing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
  • Cheesy Dressing: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Seafood Twist: Fold in oysters for a coastal Southern version, perfect for festive occasions.
  • Herb-Forward: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or parsley for additional aroma and complexity.

Final Thoughts

The Best Southern Cornbread Dressing is more than a side dish—it’s a centerpiece of any holiday meal. With its moist texture, rich flavor, and comforting aroma, it represents the heart of Southern cooking. Whether serving Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple Sunday dinner, this recipe will quickly become a cherished tradition.

Simple, soulful, and satisfying, this classic dish proves that the best holiday meals are rooted in tradition, flavor, and love. Don’t forget to pin or bookmark this recipe for your next holiday gathering, and share your favorite variations in the comments!

 

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