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Bowl of Old-Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing ready for serving

Old-Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing

A delightful combination of cornbread, sautéed vegetables, and herbs, this Southern dressing is perfect for holidays and gatherings, evoking nostalgia and warmth.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 heure 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingrédients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups crumbled cornbread (dry or day-old) Use day-old cornbread for the best texture.
  • 1.5 cups finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped celery
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups chicken broth Use more if needed to adjust moisture.
  • 0.5 cup whole milk For a dairy-free version, substitute with plant-based milk.
  • 0.5 cup melted butter Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Optional, for garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Collect all your ingredients. Crumble the day-old cornbread and set it aside. Chop the onion and celery finely.

Cooking the Base

  • In a skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter and sauté the onion and celery until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Mixing the Cornbread

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the crumbled cornbread and incorporate the sautéed onion and celery.

Preparing the Liquid Mixture

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, chicken broth, milk, melted butter, and all seasoning ingredients until well combined.

Combining Mixtures

  • Pour the liquid mixture over the cornbread and sautéed vegetables. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Baking

  • Transfer the mixture to a greased medium baking dish, smooth the top, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes.

Cooling

  • Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up.

Notes

For dietary restrictions, use vegetable broth, gluten-free cornbread, or dairy-free substitutes as needed. Adding cooked sausage or bacon enhances flavor, while seasonal herbs can provide freshness.
Keyword Comfort food, Cornbread Dressing, Holiday Side Dish, Make Ahead, Southern Recipe