This Southern Cornbread Dressing is a cozy side dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Packed with crumbled cornbread, veggies, and spices, it’s bursting with flavor!
You might find yourself wanting to eat it straight from the dish! I love to enjoy it with a drizzle of gravy or alongside some turkey. It just feels like home! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread: The star of this dish! You can use homemade cornbread or store-bought. If you’re short on time, go for the pre-made option. Additionally, you could use gluten-free cornbread if needed.
Onion & Celery: These aromatics add wonderful flavor. If you don’t have celery, try using leeks or bell peppers for a different twist. Remember, veggies bring moisture to the dressing, so don’t skip them!
Poultry Seasoning: This blend brings depth to the dish. If you don’t have it, make your own with sage, thyme, and rosemary. Feel free to add other spices you enjoy, like thyme or oregano, for a personal touch.
Chicken Broth: This is essential for moisture. You can swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the seasoning since vegetable broth can be milder.
Sausage: If you want to keep this dish lighter, you can skip the sausage or substitute it with mushrooms for a hearty texture without meat.
How Do I Ensure My Dressing Isn’t Soggy?
Getting the right moisture level is crucial. You want the cornbread dressing moist but not dripping. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start by crumbling the cornbread into small pieces—this helps it absorb just the right amount of broth.
- When adding eggs and broth, do it gradually. Mix gently and keep an eye on the moisture level. If it feels too wet, you can add more crumbled cornbread.
- After mixing, look for a texture that holds together yet is still a little loose when pressed. It should not puddle.
- Baking it uncovered allows excess moisture to escape, leading to a crispy top. Make sure to bake it until golden for that perfect finish!
By following these tips, your Southern Cornbread Dressing will be a delightful addition to any meal! Enjoy!
The Southern Cornbread Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 batch of homemade or store-bought cornbread (about 6 cups crumbled)
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups chicken broth (more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked sausage, crumbled (optional for traditional flair)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and then 45-50 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 10 minutes to have this delightful Southern Cornbread Dressing on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Cornbread Base:
If you don’t have prepared cornbread, bake one batch of your favorite recipe and allow it to cool. Once cooled, crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook Vegetables and Sausage:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing until they become tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. If you’re using sausage, add the cooked and crumbled sausage to the pan and warm through, giving it a lovely flavor boost.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the sautéed onion, celery, and sausage mixture to the bowl with crumbled cornbread. Stir in the poultry seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley if you’re using it. Mix well to combine all the flavors!
4. Add Liquids:
Pour the beaten eggs over the cornbread mixture and gradually add the chicken broth while gently mixing. The goal is for the cornbread to be moist but not soggy. It should hold together when pressed but remain slightly loose for that perfect texture.
5. Preheat Oven:
Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
6. Bake the Dressing:
Transfer the dressing mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake uncovered for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve:
Once it’s done, let the dressing rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit. Enjoy it warm with gravy, turkey, or as a hearty side dish that brings a touch of Southern hospitality to your table!
This Southern Cornbread Dressing is not just delicious, it’s a heartwarming dish that everyone will love. Enjoy creating memories around your dining table!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cornbread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread saves time and works perfectly. Just crumble it into your mixing bowl, and you’re ready to go. Look for a variety that’s moist for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have Poultry Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own with a mix of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary. Use about 1 teaspoon of each for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, try using Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cornbread dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance! Just assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed. That way, you’ll have a delicious dish ready for gatherings!
