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Cornbread Dressing

Cornbread Dressing
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Cornbread Dressing is a comforting Southern classic side dish combining fluffy day-old cornbread, aromatic sautéed celery and onion, fresh herbs, and rich chicken or turkey stock. This moist and savory dressing is perfect for holidays and family gatherings, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and a deliciously rich flavor in every bite. Easy to customize and make ahead, it pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or ham.

Ingredients

Scale

Cornbread

  • 6 cups day-old or slightly stale cornbread, crumbled into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Liquids & Binders

  • 2 to 2 ½ cups warmed chicken or turkey stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian variation)
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cornbread: Bake your cornbread a day ahead or use leftover cornbread. Crumble it into a large mixing bowl, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Using cornbread that is not too fresh helps it absorb the broth better without becoming mushy.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables and Herbs: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped celery and onion and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced sage, thyme, and rosemary to release their aromas.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables and herbs to the bowl with crumbled cornbread. Gradually pour in warmed chicken or turkey stock while stirring to moisten the mixture without making it soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Eggs and Mix Well: Lightly beat the eggs and fold them into the cornbread mixture. The eggs help bind the dressing, giving it a firm yet tender texture after baking.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Spoon the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the interior is set but moist. Let the dressing rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old cornbread to ensure the dressing holds its structure without becoming mushy.
  • Warm the stock before adding to allow for better absorption and moistness.
  • Add the broth slowly and mix gently to control moisture and avoid sogginess.
  • Fold ingredients carefully to preserve the cornbread texture.
  • Let the dressing rest after baking to improve flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cornbread Dressing, Southern Dressing, Holiday Side Dish, Thanksgiving Side, Comfort Food, Gluten Free Side, Make Ahead Dressing

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/cornbread-dressing/