Nothing completes a traditional holiday meal quite like this Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing. With its tender, golden-brown crust and rich, savory flavor, this dish brings comfort and nostalgia to any table. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family Sunday dinner, this recipe will transport you to a time when hearty, homemade meals were the centerpiece of every gathering.
Perfectly moist on the inside and packed with the flavors of sage, poultry seasoning, and buttery sautéed vegetables, this recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying.
Let’s dive into how you can make the best cornbread dressing to impress your family and friends! 🌟
Why You'll Love This Cornbread Dressing
- Perfect Texture: Soft and moist on the inside with a crispy golden crust.
- Classic Southern Flavor: Packed with herbs and aromatics like sage, poultry seasoning, onions, and celery.
- Easy to Make: Simple, no-fuss ingredients come together quickly.
- Versatile: Perfect as a holiday side dish but delicious enough for any meal.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this heavenly cornbread dressing:
- 4 cups finely crumbled cornbread: The star of the show! This provides the classic flavor and slightly crumbly texture.
- 4 cups finely crumbled toasted bread: Adds structure and balance to the cornbread, preventing it from becoming too soft.
- 2 cups chopped onions: Infuses a savory depth of flavor into every bite.
- 2 cups chopped celery: Adds a subtle crunch and a layer of freshness.
- 1/2 cup butter: For rich, buttery flavor and perfect sautéing.
- 1 tbsp salt: Enhances the flavor and ties all the ingredients together.
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds warmth and a touch of spice.
- 1 tbsp dried sage: A classic herb that gives cornbread dressing its unmistakable savory aroma.
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs and spices that complements roasted meats.
- Turkey broth (as needed): Keeps the dressing perfectly moist and adds a savory, meaty flavor.
- 4 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold everything together while baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a flavor-packed, moist cornbread dressing:
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a large baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and celery, and sauté until they are soft and tender, about 5-7 minutes. This step infuses the butter with the aromatics for maximum flavor.
3. Combine the Bread Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and toasted bread crumbs.
- Add the sautéed onions and celery, including all the melted butter.
4. Season the Dressing
- Sprinkle the mixture with salt, black pepper, sage, and poultry seasoning. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the bread mixture.
5. Add Broth and Eggs
- Gradually pour in the turkey broth using a baster or measuring cup. Add just enough to make the mixture very moist but not overly soupy.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
6. Bake the Dressing
- Spread the dressing evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set in the center.
Pro Tips for the Best Cornbread Dressing
- Homemade Cornbread: For the best flavor, make your cornbread from scratch a day or two ahead. It needs to be slightly dry for the perfect texture.
- Toast the Bread: Toasting the bread ensures it holds its shape and doesn’t become too mushy when mixed with the broth.
- Season Generously: Taste your mixture before baking to ensure the seasonings are just right. Don’t be afraid to adjust the sage or poultry seasoning to your liking.
- Don’t Overdo the Broth: Add broth gradually. You want the dressing moist but not runny.
Serving Suggestions
This cornbread dressing is the ultimate side dish for your holiday table. Pair it with:
- Roast Turkey: The classic combination for Thanksgiving.
- Homemade Gravy: Drizzle a ladle of rich, savory gravy over the top.
- Green Beans or Collard Greens: A perfect veggie side to complement the dressing.
- Cranberry Sauce: Adds a touch of tangy sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This old-fashioned cornbread dressing delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a cherished family favorite for generations. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re hosting a large holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to become your go-to side dish. Its comforting, homemade goodness will make it a highlight of any meal.
Conclusion
Bring the tradition of Southern cooking to your kitchen with this irresistible Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing. With its golden crust, moist interior, and robust flavors, it’s the perfect dish to complete any special occasion.
Save this recipe now and make it a staple at your next holiday gathering. Your family will thank you for this delicious, timeless classic! 🌟