Name: Southern Cornbread Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483379H40M45S
Total time: PT-483379H40M45S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought); 4 cups day-old white bread or biscuits, crumbled; 1 stick (½ cup) butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 ribs celery, finely chopped; 2 tsp poultry seasoning; 1 tsp dried sage (or to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 2 cups chicken broth (or more as needed for moisture); 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (optional but makes it extra rich)

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Oh, let me tell you about this Southern Cornbread Dressing—it’s the kind of dish that will make you feel like you’re wrapped up in a warm, cozy hug from the inside out. Picture this: a savory, herb-infused cornbread base, with just the right amount of crunch around the edges, and that rich, comforting flavor that only a Southern classic like this can bring. Trust me, this one is a game-changer. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or even a random Sunday craving, this dressing is the ultimate comfort food.

The beauty of cornbread dressing lies in how it combines simple ingredients into something absolutely magical. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor—savory, buttery, and just a little crispy on top, but soft and pillowy on the inside. The herbs blend together perfectly, making every bite feel like a taste of home. Get ready for your kitchen to smell like a celebration of good food!

Why You’ll Love Southern Cornbread Dressing

This dish isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories you’ll make while enjoying it. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, passing it down at family gatherings, or just making it for yourself (because you deserve it), this cornbread dressing brings people together in the best way. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile

Perfect for holidays, cozy dinners, or just because it’s what your soul craves. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be the star of a big gathering or an easy side dish for a quiet dinner. Imagine this at Thanksgiving or Christmas—it’s the one everyone looks forward to, but it’s also so simple, you can make it on any given day.

Budget-Friendly

Made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy, expensive ingredients to make a dish that’s big on flavor. It’s all about using simple pantry staples and turning them into something extraordinary.

Quick and Easy

If you’re intimidated by long, complicated recipes, don’t worry—this one is beginner-friendly! You don’t need any culinary expertise to nail this. Just follow the straightforward steps, and you’ll have this delicious dressing ready in no time.

Customizable

Feel free to play around with it! Add sausage, diced veggies, or extra herbs to make it your own. Want a little heat? Toss in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a kick. Whatever your taste, this recipe can be tweaked to fit your cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’ve got picky eaters or big flavor fans, this dressing will satisfy everyone. It’s one of those dishes that people always ask for the recipe after the first bite. Kids and adults alike love it, so you know it’s a winner.

Ingredients in Southern Cornbread Dressing

Here’s the magic of this dish—made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a true Southern comfort food that never fails to impress. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cornbread: The foundation of this dressing. It soaks up all the savory goodness, creating a fluffy, golden base. You can make your own cornbread, or use store-bought—either way, you’re in for something amazing.
Onions: For that aromatic, sweet base. Onions bring depth and a bit of natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Celery: Adds that crisp texture and a touch of freshness. It gives the dressing a little crunch and a lovely earthy note.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth works great here. It helps bring everything together, keeping it moist and flavorful. It’s the glue that holds this whole dish together.
Eggs: To bind everything and create that perfect texture. They add richness and ensure your dressing comes out nice and fluffy.
Butter: Because everything’s better with butter. It adds that richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden top.
Herbs: Sage, thyme, and parsley—these herbs are the heart of the flavor profile. They make every bite fragrant and comforting, reminding you of home-cooked meals.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions for Southern Cornbread Dressing

Let’s dive into how to make this flavor-packed Southern Cornbread Dressing!

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy top we all love.

Crumble the Cornbread

Once your cornbread is made and cooled, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. The goal is a hearty, crumbled texture that’ll soak up all that flavor.

Sauté the Veggies

In a large pan, melt some butter over medium heat and sauté your chopped onions and celery until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. The smell alone will have you excited to dig in!

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed veggies, herbs, and beaten eggs. Stir everything together, and slowly pour in your broth. Mix until it’s all well combined, making sure the cornbread is nicely soaked. You want that perfect balance of moisture—not too dry, but not too soggy either.

Assemble the Dressing

Grease a baking dish and transfer your cornbread mixture into it. Spread everything out evenly, and use a spatula to smooth the top. If you want, drizzle a little extra butter on top for that golden, crispy crust.

Bake to Perfection

Pop it in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a little crispy. The inside should be soft and perfectly seasoned. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell like heaven.

Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s baked to perfection, let it cool for a few minutes, then dive in! Serve it up as a side dish, or just enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s sure to be a hit.

How to Serve Southern Cornbread Dressing

This cornbread dressing is so versatile that it pairs well with nearly anything. Here are a few ideas to make your meal even more delicious:

With Roast Chicken or Turkey: This dressing is the perfect accompaniment to any roasted meat. Think crispy skin, tender meat, and a generous scoop of cornbread dressing.
With Gravy: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle some homemade gravy on top. It adds another layer of comfort and flavor.
Vegetables: A side of roasted veggies, like green beans or sweet potatoes, complements the richness of the dressing beautifully.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: This dressing is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.
Add Meat: If you want to make it heartier, try adding cooked sausage or bacon to the mixture for extra flavor.
Storage: Leftovers? No problem! Store your dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. It’s just as good the next day!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use store-bought cornbread?
A1: Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought cornbread works perfectly. Just make sure to crumble it into small pieces before mixing it into the dressing.

Q2: Can I freeze this dressing?
A2: Absolutely! This dressing freezes beautifully. Simply assemble it, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A3: Yes! Swap the eggs for a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use dairy-free butter for a completely vegan version.

Q4: Can I add sausage to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Cooked sausage adds so much flavor. Just sauté it along with the onions and celery, and mix it in with the cornbread.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results—just cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

And there you have it! This Southern Cornbread Dressing is truly a crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, flavorful, and made with love in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays, a family dinner, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is bound to steal the show. It’s simple, but oh-so-delicious. So go ahead—give it a try and savor every bite! Enjoy!