Southern Cornbread Dressing

There’s nothing quite like Southern Cornbread Dressing to bring comfort, tradition, and flavor to your holiday table. Moist, savory, and perfectly seasoned, this dish has been passed down through generations in Southern kitchens. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday dinner, this recipe is a true taste of home.

In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through making the perfect cornbread dressing—from the essential ingredients to helpful cooking tips—so you can recreate this Southern classic with confidence.

What Is Southern Cornbread Dressing?

Southern Cornbread Dressing is a traditional side dish made with crumbled cornbread, vegetables, broth, and classic herbs like sage and thyme. Unlike stuffing (which is often cooked inside the turkey), cornbread dressing is baked in a casserole dish, giving it a moist interior with a golden, slightly crisp top.

This recipe has roots in Southern comfort food, blending simple pantry staples into something hearty and satisfying. It’s the perfect dish to soak up gravy and complement roasted meats.

Ingredients for Southern Cornbread Dressing

To create the perfect Southern Cornbread Dressing, you’ll need a balance of flavorful, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s the detailed list:

For the Cornbread:

• 1 cup cornmeal

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 ½ cups buttermilk

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Dressing:

• 6 cups crumbled baked cornbread (from above recipe)

• 4 slices day-old sandwich bread, torn into pieces (optional, adds texture)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 3 celery stalks, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons dried sage (or fresh if available)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 3 cups chicken broth (or turkey broth for extra flavor)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these tools ready:

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Skillet or sauté pan

• Whisk

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

Having everything prepared will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1: Bake the Cornbread

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Grease or butter an 8-inch square baking pan.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with buttermilk and melted butter.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just blended.

6. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm in the center.

7. Cool completely, then crumble into pieces.

Tip: Make the cornbread a day ahead for the best texture.

2: Prepare the Flavor Base

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add onion and celery, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 8 minutes).

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3: Assemble the Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread and sandwich bread (if using).

2. Add the sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Whisk eggs in a small bowl, then pour over mixture.

4. Gradually stir in broth, ½ cup at a time, until the mixture is moist but not soupy. (You may not need all the broth.)

5. Fold in fresh parsley for brightness.

4: Bake the Dressing

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp but the inside remains moist.

4. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips for Making Southern Cornbread Dressing

• Use day-old bread: Fresh cornbread can be too soft. Letting it dry slightly helps absorb broth better.

• Adjust broth carefully: Add just enough to keep it moist; too much will make it mushy.

• Customize the flavor: Add cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or mushrooms for extra heartiness.

• Make ahead: You can assemble the dressing the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

• Freeze leftovers: Southern cornbread dressing freezes beautifully. Store in portions for easy reheating later.

Variations of Southern Cornbread Dressing

• Oyster Cornbread Dressing: Add chopped oysters for a coastal Southern twist.

• Sausage Cornbread Dressing: Brown breakfast sausage and mix it into the dressing for a rich flavor.

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers.

• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Cornbread Dressing is best served as a side dish alongside:

• Roast turkey, chicken, or ham

• Mashed potatoes with gravy

• Green bean casserole

• Cranberry sauce

• Sweet potato casserole

This dish pairs beautifully with other Southern and holiday classics, making it a must-have at any festive gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Southern flavor: True to tradition with cornbread, sage, and rich broth.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable for different diets or flavor preferences.

• Perfect for holidays: A Thanksgiving and Christmas staple that never disappoints.

• Make-ahead friendly: Stress-free cooking for busy holiday hosts.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Southern Cornbread Dressing has stood the test of time—it’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. With its golden top, moist center, and fragrant herbs, this dish is the heart of many Southern holiday meals.

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