Description
A traditional Southern holiday side, Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a savory classic made with homemade cornbread, fresh herbs, and rich chicken broth. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this easy cornbread dressing is moist, flavorful, and feeds a crowd. Great as a make-ahead casserole or freezer-friendly comfort food dish.
Ingredients
3 cups cornbread, crumbled
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Bake the cornbread a day ahead and crumble it into a large mixing bowl. Let it sit uncovered to dry slightly.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the celery and onion. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked vegetables to the crumbled cornbread. Stir in sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add to the cornbread mixture along with the chicken broth. Stir gently to combine. The texture should be moist but not runny.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Let the dressing rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use slightly stale cornbread for better absorption and texture.
You can add cooked sausage or chopped apples for flavor variation.
If making ahead, prepare the mixture and refrigerate unbaked, then bake fresh before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg