Mama’s Classic Cornbread Dressing Recipe

Cornbread dressing is a beloved Southern classic, and learning how to make it ensures you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish for your next family gathering or holiday feast. Follow this simple, comforting recipe, and soon your loved ones will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cornbread crumbles
  (Freshly baked or store-bought cornbread works perfectly)
• 1/4 cup butter
  (For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness)
• 1/2 cup diced celery
  (About 2 stalks)
• 1 small onion, diced
  (Yellow onion preferred for its mild sweetness)
• 2 large eggs, whisked
  (To bind the dressing and give it structure)
• 2 cups chicken broth
  (Use homemade or store-bought low-sodium broth)
• 1 tablespoon dried sage
  (Adjust to taste; fresh sage can be used for more flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 7×11-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Prepare the Cornbread Base

• In a large mixing bowl, crumble your cornbread into small, even pieces. Avoid over-crumbling; a mix of fine and slightly larger crumbs is ideal for texture.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced celery and onion, cooking for 5-7 minutes or until they’re softened and aromatic. Avoid browning them.

4. Combine the Ingredients

• Add the sautéed celery and onion to the bowl of crumbled cornbread.
• Stir in the whisked eggs, chicken broth, sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly moistened. The mixture should be slightly wet but not soupy. Add a bit more broth if needed for a moist consistency.

5. Bake the Dressing

• Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. For a crispier top, bake an additional 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of extra sage for a festive touch.
• Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or fried chicken for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
• Pair with cranberry sauce or gravy for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing:

1. Use Day-Old Cornbread: Slightly stale cornbread absorbs broth better, resulting in a more cohesive texture.
2. Customize the Seasoning: Add thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a unique twist.
3. Make It Your Own: Stir in extras like cooked sausage, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries for added depth.
4. Check the Moisture: Adjust the broth quantity to ensure your dressing is neither too dry nor too soggy.
5. Double the Recipe: For larger gatherings, simply double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 11g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fiber: 2g

Final Thoughts

Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings people together. With its buttery flavor, tender texture, and just the right amount of seasoning, this recipe will become a staple at your table. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner, this dressing is guaranteed to be a hit.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the nostalgia with every bite! 🍴