Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

A Classic Thanksgiving Side Dish

When it comes to traditional holiday meals, few dishes evoke as much nostalgia and comfort as Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing. This Southern classic combines crumbled homemade cornbread, buttery sautéed vegetables, and savory herbs for a rich, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, delivering a taste of tradition with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic Flavor: The perfect balance of sage, thyme, and buttery goodness makes this dish an instant favorite.
  • Comforting Texture: A soft, moist interior with a lightly browned, crisp top.
  • Made from Scratch: Using homemade cornbread elevates the flavor and authenticity.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or roast chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Cornbread?

Yes, but homemade cornbread offers the best flavor and texture for this dish.

How Do I Keep the Dressing from Being Too Dry?

Ensure you add enough chicken broth to create a moist mixture before baking. You can also cover the dish with foil during the first half of baking.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

For the Cornbread:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs (beaten)

For the Dressing:

  • 1 batch of cornbread (crumbled)
  • 4 slices day-old bread (crumbled)
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 3 celery stalks (diced)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons sage
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 eggs (beaten)

Kitchen Equipment

To prepare this dish, you’ll need:

  • A 9-inch square baking pan (for the cornbread)
  • A 9×13-inch baking dish (for the dressing)
  • Mixing bowls
  • A skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • A whisk or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cornbread

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and beaten eggs. Stir until well combined.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Let the cornbread cool, then crumble it into a large bowl.

2. Prepare the Dressing

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the cooked vegetables to the bowl of crumbled cornbread and crumbled day-old bread.

3. Combine the Ingredients

  1. Add the chicken broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to the cornbread mixture. Stir well to combine. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  2. Stir in the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.

4. Bake the Dressing

  1. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the dressing is set and the top is lightly browned.
  3. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing

  • Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the liquid better, resulting in a perfect texture.
  • Taste Before Baking: Adjust the seasoning before adding the eggs to ensure the flavors are just right.
  • Don’t Overbake: Check the dressing at the 40-minute mark to prevent it from drying out.
  • Customize the Herbs: Add parsley or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Add Protein: Incorporate cooked sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Dried Fruit: Add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet-savory balance.

Storing and Reheating

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the baked dressing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.

Perfect Pairings

Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing pairs wonderfully with:

  • Main Dishes: Roast turkey, baked ham, or roasted chicken.
  • Gravy: Drizzle with turkey or chicken gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Vegetables: Serve with green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots for a balanced meal.

Bring Tradition to Your Table with Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

This Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is the ultimate holiday side dish, combining comforting flavors with a touch of nostalgia. Whether it’s part of your Thanksgiving spread or a special dinner, this dish is sure to be a favorite with everyone at the table.

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