Southern Cornbread Dressing is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings. This tasty blend of cornbread, veggies, and herbs makes your meal feel extra special!
The smell while it’s baking? Oh, it’s like a hug! I love serving it with turkey and gravy. Plus, making it is a breeze, so you get to enjoy more time with loved ones. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread: The base of this dish! Homemade Southern-style cornbread is best, but if you’re short on time, store-bought works too. Just make sure it’s not too sweet. You can also use cornbread mix if you’re really in a pinch!
Onion and Celery: These veggies add essential flavor. If you’re not a fan of celery, feel free to substitute with diced bell peppers or green onions. Onions can be swapped for shallots for a milder taste.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. For a richer flavor, you can use homemade broth if you have some on hand.
Herbs: Sage and thyme are classic, but feel free to experiment! Rosemary or marjoram can bring a different flavor to the dressing. Fresh herbs can also replace dried, using three times the amount.
How Do I Keep My Dressing from Being Soggy?
The goal is a moist but not soggy dressing, so getting the moisture right is crucial. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Start with crumbled cornbread that’s a day or two old, as it’s drier and absorbs liquid better.
- Carefully add broth to the mixture. You want it to feel moist but still hold its shape. Pour in a little at a time until you get the right consistency.
- Cover with foil for the first part of baking to retain some moisture, then remove it to let the top crisp up.
Trust your instincts and check the moisture level before baking! A little practice makes perfect!
Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dressing:
- 1 batch Southern-style cornbread (about 8 cups crumbled)
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 cups chicken broth (adjust for moisture)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and roughly 50 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’ll need around 1 hour and 10 minutes to get this delicious Southern Cornbread Dressing to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Cornbread:
If you’re not using store-bought cornbread, make a batch of Southern-style cornbread. Once it cools completely, crumble it into medium-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your dressing.
2. Cook Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent. Once done, remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix Dressing Base:
In the bowl with crumbled cornbread, add the sautéed vegetables, dried sage, thyme, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley (if using). Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Add Liquids:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with the chicken broth. Slowly pour this mixture over the cornbread and veggie mixture while gently mixing. Aim for a mixture that is moist but not soggy; if it feels too dry, you can add a bit more broth as needed.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dressing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring it’s nice and snug in the dish.
6. Bake Covered:
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and has a little crispness to it.
7. Serve:
Once baked, allow the dressing to cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm as a classic Southern side dish, perfect for family gatherings and festive meals!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cornbread?
Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread is a great time-saver. Just ensure it’s not overly sweet, as traditional Southern-style cornbread is more on the savory side.
Can I Make This Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dressing up to a day in advance. Just mix everything together, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover 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) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly! For a richer flavor, you can also use homemade broth. Just ensure that any substitute aligns with your dietary preferences.
