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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
