If you are searching for a comforting, soul-satisfying side dish that captures the heart of Southern cooking, look no further than this Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe. This classic dish is a delicious blend of crumbly, buttery cornbread mingled with sautéed vegetables and savory herbs, baked to golden perfection. Every bite offers moist, tender texture with a crispy top, delivering a rich flavor experience that perfectly complements any holiday table or family dinner. Once you try this Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for gatherings big or small.

Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish shine.

  • Cornbread (about 4 cups crumbled): The star of the dish, providing a sweet, crumbly base that soaks up all the savory flavors.
  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics for a flavorful foundation.
  • Medium onion, chopped: Brings a gentle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
  • Celery stalks (2, chopped): Adds subtle crunch and herbaceous notes to balance the richness.
  • Garlic cloves (3, minced): Offers a fragrant punch that carries throughout the dish.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth (2 cups): Ensures moistness and infuses savory undertones into the cornbread.
  • Large eggs (2, beaten): Act as a binder to hold the dressing together while baking.
  • Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
  • Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds just the right amount of mild heat and earthiness.
  • Dried sage (1/2 tsp): Brings a classic Southern herbal aroma that’s unmistakable.
  • Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Offers a delicate, slightly minty flavor that complements the sage.
  • Poultry seasoning (1/2 tsp): A traditional blend that ties the dish together.
  • Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Adds brightness and a pop of green color for freshness.
  • Heavy cream (1/2 cup, optional): For those wanting an ultra-rich and creamy dressing experience.

How to Make Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread

Start by baking a batch of your favorite homemade cornbread or use a good-quality store-bought version. Once it has cooled, crumble about 4 cups into a large mixing bowl. The cornbread forms the base, so perfectly cooling it prevents sogginess later while maintaining a tender texture inside the dressing.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your dressing.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, mix the crumbled cornbread and sautéed vegetables in a big bowl. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and beaten eggs, seasoning everything with salt, pepper, dried sage, thyme, and poultry seasoning. If you want to elevate the richness, fold in the heavy cream at this point. Add chopped fresh parsley if using, which brightens the flavor and adds a fresh note.

Step 4: Assemble the Dressing

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Gently press the mixture down so it is evenly packed, but not too tightly. This ensures a nice dense texture inside while allowing the top to crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the dressing uncovered for approximately 30 to 35 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and develops a slight crisp. This delightful contrast between the crispy crust and moist inside is a hallmark of an excellent Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the dressing rest for a few minutes to set. It pairs perfectly with traditional mains like turkey, roast chicken, or ham, making your meal feel comforting and complete. Dig in and savor that authentic Southern charm!

How to Serve Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe

Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Consider topping your Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe with fresh herbs like parsley or sage leaves for a beautiful presentation and an added burst of freshness. A light drizzle of melted butter before serving can also enhance richness and add shine.

Side Dishes

This dressing is naturally a star side dish for holiday feasts but also complements everyday meals. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, collard greens, baked ham, or a succulent roast chicken to round out your plate with a true Southern vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking the dressing in individual ramekins for charming personal servings. You could also incorporate dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or even a little crumbled sausage directly into the mixture for extra flavor and texture variations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, ready to warm up for a quick and comforting meal later.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dressing cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the dressing in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it near the end to crisp the top once again. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but baking will keep the texture more authentic.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade cornbread adds a special touch, a good-quality store-bought cornbread works wonderfully for this Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.

Is it necessary to add heavy cream?

No, heavy cream is optional. It adds extra richness and creaminess, but the dressing is delicious and moist even without it thanks to the broth and eggs.

Can I make this dressing vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit any meat add-ins to keep it fully vegetarian without compromising the comforting flavors.

How do I know when the dressing is done baking?

The dressing should be golden brown on top and set in the center. A lightly crisp top with tender, moist interior is the goal, usually reached around 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the dressing and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight before baking. This allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes your day-of preparations easier.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family meal, this recipe delivers on flavor, tradition, and comfort all in one delicious dish. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved part of your kitchen repertoire!

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Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 81 reviews
  • Author: Deborah
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Southern Cornbread Dressing is a classic comfort food featuring homemade cornbread combined with sautéed vegetables, herbs, and savory seasonings, baked to golden perfection. It’s a beloved side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey, roast chicken, or ham, delivering a rich, flavorful experience with a crispy top and moist interior.


Ingredients

Scale

Cornbread

  • 1 batch of homemade cornbread (about 4 cups crumbled)

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried sage
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Liquids and Others

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cornbread: Bake your favorite cornbread recipe or use a store-bought version. Allow it to cool completely, then crumble about 4 cups into small pieces to use as the base of your dressing.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread with the sautéed vegetables. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, beaten eggs, salt, black pepper, dried sage, dried thyme, poultry seasoning, and fresh parsley if using. Mix thoroughly to evenly incorporate all ingredients. For a richer texture, stir in the heavy cream at this point.
  4. Assemble the Dressing: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the mixed dressing into the dish and press down gently to pack it evenly.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dressing in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and crispy.
  6. Serve & Enjoy: Let the dressing rest for a few minutes after baking to set slightly. Serve warm alongside turkey, roast chicken, or ham for a classic Southern meal.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a less rich dressing, omit the heavy cream.
  • You can prepare the cornbread a day ahead to save time.
  • Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried, but reduce quantities to about one-third.
  • Make sure the vegetables are well sautéed to enhance flavor and moisture balance.

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