Description
This classic Cornbread Dressing is a beloved Southern American side dish, perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday meals. It combines crumbled cornbread and day-old white bread with sautéed onions, celery, and aromatic herbs, all moistened with broth and baked until golden and set. The result is a moist, flavorful dressing that pairs beautifully with turkey and other festive dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 6 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 cups cubed day-old white bread
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Others
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3 to 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the dressing.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 8 minutes.
- Combine bread and seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the crumbled cornbread and cubed day-old white bread. Add the sautéed vegetables along with dried sage, dried thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Add liquids and eggs: Pour in 3 cups of broth and stir well to moisten the mixture. Then incorporate the beaten eggs. If the mixture feels too dry, gradually add more broth until it is moist but not soupy.
- Transfer and bake: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and allow the dressing to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for color and freshness.
Notes
- Prepare the cornbread a day or two in advance for best texture in the dressing.
- For a heartier, meatier dressing, stir in 1 cup of cooked, crumbled sausage before baking.
