Name: Cornbread Dressing
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 cups crumbled cornbread (about 1 full 8×8 pan); 1 tablespoon butter or oil (15 g); 1 cup onion, diced (150 g); 1 cup celery, diced (100 g); 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon salt (2.5 g); ½ teaspoon black pepper (1 g); 1½ to 2 cups chicken broth (360–480 mL); 2 large eggs, beaten; ½ cup cooked crumbled sausage; ¼ cup chopped parsley; Chopped boiled eggs (optional)

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Why Make This Recipe

Cornbread dressing is a classic dish that takes you right back to Southern holidays. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a beloved addition to any festive meal. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table. Plus, it’s simple to make and can easily feed a crowd.

How to Make Cornbread Dressing

Ingredients

6 cups crumbled cornbread (about 1 full 8×8 pan)
1 tablespoon butter or oil (15 g)
1 cup onion, diced (150 g)
1 cup celery, diced (100 g)
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt (2.5 g)
½ teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
1½ to 2 cups chicken broth (360–480 mL)
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup cooked crumbled sausage
¼ cup chopped parsley
Chopped boiled eggs (optional)

Directions

Bake cornbread a day ahead or use leftovers. Let it dry slightly and then crumble the cornbread into a large bowl.
In a skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the crumbled cornbread. Whisk the eggs with the chicken broth and pour the mixture over the cornbread. Stir gently until everything is moistened.
Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Spread the dressing evenly in the dish.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and set in the center.
Cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

How to Serve Cornbread Dressing

Cornbread dressing is best served warm as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, especially turkey and chicken. You can also serve it alongside a green salad or collard greens for a complete meal. Enjoy it with gravy or cranberry sauce for added flavor!

How to Store Cornbread Dressing

To store leftover cornbread dressing, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to Make Cornbread Dressing

Use day-old cornbread for better texture. Fresh cornbread can be too moist.
Adjust the broth based on how moist you like it. Start with 1½ cups and add more as needed.
For added flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms.

Variation

You can add different ingredients to customize your cornbread dressing. Try adding nuts, dried fruits, or different herbs to put your spin on the classic recipe.

FAQs

Q: Can I make cornbread dressing ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: Can I use store-bought cornbread?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread works well if you’re short on time.

Q: Is cornbread dressing gluten-free?
A: If you use gluten-free cornbread and broth, then it can be gluten-free. Just check the labels of your ingredients.