This Southern Cornbread Dressing is the ultimate comfort food! Made with sweet cornbread, celery, onions, and a mix of tasty herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
When I whip this up, I can’t resist sneaking bites of the crunchy top! It’s perfect with turkey or just on its own. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread: The star of this dish! You can use store-bought or homemade cornbread. If you don’t have cornbread, try using dried bread like white or whole wheat bread, just season it with a little extra herbs to get the right flavor.
Onion & Celery: These veggies boost flavor and texture. If you’re short on either, you can replace them with leeks or shallots for onion and green peppers for celery. Or skip them entirely if you prefer a simpler dressing!
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead. This keeps the dish flavorful while accommodating different diets. You can also use water, but it won’t be as rich in taste.
Herbs: Sage and thyme are classic choices. If you don’t have them, try Italian seasoning or a mix of rosemary and basil. Fresh herbs can be more potent, so adjust the amounts accordingly!
How Do I Make the Cornbread Dressing Moist but Not Soggy?
This dressing needs to be perfectly moist without falling apart. To achieve this, follow these tips:
- Start with slightly dried-out cornbread to help absorb the moisture.
- Add the chicken broth gradually while mixing until it feels moist but not wet. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- If you’re unsure, you can bake a small amount in a ramekin to test for moisture before baking the whole dish.
How to Make Southern Cornbread Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dressing:
- 1 batch of cornbread (about 6 cups crumbled; store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth (more as needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time and 40-45 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to enjoy this delicious Southern dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish or any similar casserole dish and grease it well to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cornbread:
If you’re using homemade cornbread, bake it beforehand and let it dry out a bit. Crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl until you have about 6 cups of crumbs. If using store-bought cornbread, follow the package instructions and then crumble it as well.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft. In the last minute of cooking, stir in the minced garlic, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the sautéed veggies into the bowl with the crumbled cornbread. Then, add the beaten eggs, chicken broth, dried sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. If the mixture feels dry, add a little more chicken broth—just enough to moisten it without making it soggy.
5. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Get the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and gently press it down so it holds together while baking.
6. Bake the Dressing:
Now, pop the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, let the dressing cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm as a delicious side dish, perfect for holidays or any family meal. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color!
This Southern Cornbread Dressing is a classic that pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, making it perfect for gatherings. Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cornbread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread works well. Just make sure to let it dry out a bit before crumbling to help absorb the broth better.
How Can I Make This Dressing Vegetarian?
To make this dressing vegetarian, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, and ensure any additional ingredients, like seasonings, are also vegetarian-friendly.
What Should I Do with Leftover Dressing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Of course! This dressing is very versatile. Feel free to add cooked sausage, chopped nuts like pecans, or even diced apples for a sweet twist—just adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance the new flavors.
