Southern Cornbread Dressing is a holiday staple made with crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, rich broth, and traditional herbs and seasonings. Unlike stuffing, dressing is baked separately in a casserole dish, creating a moist interior with a perfectly golden top.
Whether you're preparing Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas dinner, or Sunday supper, this Southern classic belongs on the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic Southern holiday recipe
- Perfect Thanksgiving side dish
- Rich savory flavor
- Easy make-ahead recipe
- Uses homemade cornbread
- Family favorite
Ingredients
- 8 cups crumbled cornbread
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 3 large eggs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook The Vegetables
In a large skillet melt butter over medium heat.
Add:
- Onion
- Celery
Cook for 6-8 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Mix The Dressing
In a large bowl combine:
- Crumbled cornbread
- Cooked vegetables
- Poultry seasoning
- Sage
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Add The Wet Ingredients
Whisk together:
- Eggs
- Chicken broth
Pour into the cornbread mixture.
Stir until evenly combined.
The mixture should be moist but not runny.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until golden brown on top.
Step 6: Rest And Serve
Allow dressing to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm.
Tips For The Best Cornbread Dressing
- Use day-old cornbread for the best texture.
- Don't skip the sage.
- Add more broth if the mixture seems dry.
- Let the dressing rest before serving.
What To Serve With Cornbread Dressing
- Turkey
- Chicken and Dressing
- Collard Greens
- Candied Yams
- Green Bean Casserole
- Sweet Potato Pie
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
More Southern Recipes You'll Love
- Southern Cornbread
- Chicken and Dressing
- Candied Yams
- Collard Greens
- Fried Cabbage
- Sweet Potato Pie
Final Thoughts
This Southern Cornbread Dressing is rich, savory, and packed with traditional holiday flavor. It's the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and family gatherings.