Few dishes capture the heart of Southern cooking quite like Cornbread Dressing. Rich, savory, and deeply comforting, this beloved side dish is a staple at holiday tables and Sunday dinners alike. Made with crumbly cornbread, aromatic vegetables, herbs, and flavorful broth, cornbread dressing is baked separately from the bird—allowing it to develop a beautifully golden top while staying moist and tender inside.
Whether served with roasted turkey, chicken, or ham, this timeless recipe delivers warmth, nostalgia, and unbeatable flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic cornbread dressing, gather the following:
- 6 cups cornbread, crumbled (day-old preferred)
- 2 cups white bread, cubed or torn
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional additions: cooked sausage, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or mushrooms
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl. Add the cubed white bread. Using slightly stale bread is key—it absorbs flavor without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture. Stir in parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently toss until evenly combined.
Step 4: Add Moisture
Slowly pour in 2 cups of broth, stirring gently. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. Add more broth gradually if needed. Stir in the beaten eggs to help bind the dressing as it bakes.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning. This is the perfect time to add optional ingredients like cooked sausage, cranberries, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the dressing evenly inside. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
Step 7: Bake
Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and lightly crisp while the inside remains soft and moist.
Step 8: Serve
Let the dressing rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs perfectly with turkey, chicken, or ham and is a centerpiece of Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing
- Use day-old bread: It holds structure better and absorbs flavor evenly.
- Add broth slowly: Too much can make dressing soggy.
- Customize freely: Sausage adds richness, cranberries add sweetness, and nuts add crunch.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to one day in advance, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
A True Southern Tradition
Cornbread dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a symbol of Southern hospitality and home-cooked comfort. Savory, buttery, and full of soul, it’s the kind of recipe that brings families together and keeps traditions alive. Once you master it, you’ll find it belongs on your table far beyond the holidays.
