When it comes to bringing warmth, nostalgia, and pure Southern comfort to your holiday table, nothing matches the magic of Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing. This beloved side dish is a savory blend of golden, crumbly cornbread, tender white bread, sautéed aromatics, gentle herbs, and rich homemade broth, all baked together to create a casserole that feels both familiar and festive. Whether this is your first time baking or you’re continuing a family tradition, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for Thanksgiving, Sunday suppers, or any time you crave a taste of true Southern hospitality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing is how down-to-earth and unfussy the ingredients are, yet each plays an essential role. Every component adds either texture, flavor, or heartiness, ensuring the end result is lush and layered with taste.
- Cornbread (1 full pan, about 8 cups, crumbled): The undeniable star of the show, lending a tender crumb and distinctive flavor.
- Day-old white bread (4 cups, cubed): Provides a soft, pillowy backdrop and helps absorb all the savory broth.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Brings a sweet, mellow bite to balance the richness.
- Celery (3 stalks, finely chopped): Adds fresh crunch and that classic Southern aromatic note.
- Unsalted butter (1 stick/½ cup): For sautéing and adding luscious, melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Chicken or turkey broth (4 cups, plus more if needed): Moisten and flavor the dressing; use homemade for extra depth.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Bind the ingredients together so every bite holds its shape.
- Poultry seasoning (1 teaspoon): The classic dried herb blend that instantly infuses a Thanksgiving aroma.
- Rubbed sage (1 teaspoon): Sage is the signature Southern herb, grounding the dish with earthiness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for balancing flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A touch of warmth and bite to round things out.
How to Make Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams gently. Add your finely chopped onion and celery, then sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until both are soft, translucent, and just beginning to turn golden. This step not only mellows the vegetables but builds a savory, fragrant foundation for your Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing.
Step 2: Combine the Breads
While your aromatics are working their magic, crumble your cooled cornbread into a large mixing bowl and add the cubed day-old white bread. Mixing two types of breads is key: the cornbread brings character and texture, while the white bread gently holds the whole dish together.
Step 3: Add Sautéed Vegetables and Seasonings
Pour that glorious medley of sautéed onion, celery, and butter over the crumbled bread. Sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, rubbed sage, salt, and pepper. Use a big spoon (or your clean hands!) to fold everything together until evenly combined. This step is where the flavor really starts to come alive.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Gradually add the chicken or turkey broth, about a cup at a time. Stir after each addition, ensuring the dressing is moist but not soupy. The mixture should just hold together if pressed—if you prefer a softer, custardy texture, feel free to add a little extra broth.
Step 5: Stir in the Eggs
Once the mixture feels right, pour in the beaten eggs and stir until fully incorporated. The eggs act like a gentle glue, holding the finished dressing together as it bakes.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in your dressing mixture, spreading it evenly and smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. As hard as it may be, let your Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving to ensure neat slices and the perfect texture.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle the baked dressing with a little freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color. If you love a little extra crunch, a dusting of toasted pecans brings a wonderful Southern twist without overpowering the original flavors.
Side Dishes
This classic side practically begs to be served with roast turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce. For your Southern feast, consider adding creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or collard greens—each tradition-rich side makes Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing even more delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping your dressing into individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch at fancy gatherings. Or cut wedges from the larger baking dish to serve alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or even as the base of a hearty breakfast topped with a fried egg. There are endless ways to showcase this holiday favorite year-round.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing fresh, wrap the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as irresistible!
Freezing
This dressing freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, wrap portions (or the whole dish) in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve moisture and flavor.
Reheating
Before reheating, let the cold dressing come to room temperature for even warming. Bake, covered with foil, at 325°F until hot all the way through, about 20 to 30 minutes. A quick splash of broth before reheating helps revive that just-baked tenderness.
FAQs
Can I make Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dressing up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Simply bake when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken or turkey broth for vegetable broth, and make sure your cornbread recipe is vegetarian as well. You’ll still enjoy all the richness and cozy flavors!
Can I add meat to the dressing?
Definitely. Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing is delicious with chopped cooked sausage or diced turkey mixed in before baking. It’s a hearty twist that everyone will love.
What’s the difference between dressing and stuffing?
Dressing is typically baked in a dish beside the bird, while stuffing is cooked inside the turkey. In the South, though, we mostly say “dressing” regardless of where it’s baked!
How do I know when the dressing is done?
The top will be golden and the center should feel set but still moist when gently pressed. If you love a crisper bite, let it bake a few minutes longer!
Final Thoughts
It’s impossible not to fall in love with Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing—the ultimate comfort food that gathers everyone around the table. I hope you make it for your next holiday or Sunday supper and enjoy every fragrant, golden forkful with family and friends!
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Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Old Fashioned Southern Cornbread Dressing recipe is a classic side dish perfect for holiday meals. Made with a mix of cornbread, white bread, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, it’s a comforting and savory addition to your table.
Ingredients
Cornbread:
- 1 full pan of cornbread (about 8 cups, crumbled)
White Bread:
- 4 cups day-old white bread (cubed)
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 celery stalks (finely chopped)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup)
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth (plus more if needed)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon rubbed sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onion and celery in butter until tender.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine cornbread, white bread, sautéed vegetables, seasonings, and broth. Add beaten eggs and mix well.
- Bake: Pour mixture into a baking dish and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes until set.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dressing rest before serving.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use homemade broth.
- Add extra broth for a moister texture.
- Enhance with cooked turkey or sausage if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
