This Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a classic, comforting side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering. Made with a blend of toasted bread, crumbled cornbread, sautéed onions and celery, and a mix of savory seasonings, this dressing is moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Topped with a golden-brown crust, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
2 cups chopped onions 🧅
2 cups chopped celery 🥬
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter 🧈
4 cups finely crumbled toasted bread 🍞
4 cups finely crumbled cornbread 🌽
1 tablespoon salt 🧂
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 🌿
1 tablespoon dried sage 🌿
2 teaspoons poultry seasoning 🌿
Turkey broth (enough to moisten) 🍲
4 large eggs, beaten 🥚🥚🥚🥚
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cups of chopped onions and 2 cups of chopped celery. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of finely crumbled toasted bread and 4 cups of finely crumbled cornbread. Mix well.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the sautéed onions and celery (including any cooking liquid) to the bread mixture. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of dried sage, and 2 teaspoons of poultry seasoning. Blend everything together well so that the seasonings are evenly mixed throughout the dressing.
Step 4: Add Broth and Eggs
Using a bulb baster or ladle, gradually add turkey broth to the mixture, stirring as you go. Add just enough broth to make the dressing very moist but not soggy. Stir in the 4 beaten eggs until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Dressing
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking pan or dish with butter or non-stick spray. Scrape the dressing mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the dressing is nicely browned on top and set in the center.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Take the dressing out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite holiday meals.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the dressing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. If baking straight from the fridge, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure it cooks through.
- Add Meat: Stir in cooked and crumbled sausage or diced turkey for a heartier version.
- Use Homemade Cornbread: For the best flavor, use homemade cornbread instead of store-bought.
- Add Nuts or Fruit: Mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of turkey broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Classic Comfort Food: This dressing is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
✅ Perfect for Holidays: It’s a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
✅ Easy to Customize: Add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing: The savory flavors and moist texture make it a hit with everyone.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Servings: 8-10
This Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, it’s a recipe that will bring everyone together. Enjoy! 🦃🍞😊
Final Thoughts
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cornbread dressing with a homemade touch. The combination of toasted bread, crumbled cornbread, and savory seasonings creates a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a side dish that will steal the show!