Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

Discover the ultimate Southern holiday staple that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table. Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish – it's a cherished tradition that connects generations through its rich, comforting flavors.

This timeless recipe transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that perfectly complements your holiday turkey or roasted chicken. With its perfect blend of cornbread, herbs, and savory seasonings, this dressing captures the essence of Southern home cooking.

Imagine a side dish so delicious it becomes the star of your holiday meal. Whether you're preparing a Sunday dinner or a special family gathering, this Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing will transport you to the heart of Southern culinary tradition.

Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing: A Taste of Southern Heritage

This isn't just another side dish – it's a time-honored recipe that tells a story of family, comfort, and culinary love. Crafted with care, this dressing combines the rich flavors of cornbread and white bread with aromatic herbs and vegetables.

Get ready to experience a classic Southern recipe that has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing pairs perfectly with:

• Roasted turkey
• Baked chicken
• Holiday ham
• Pot roast
• Thanksgiving or Christmas main courses

Pro Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing:

Bread Preparation: Use day-old or slightly stale cornbread and white bread for the best texture.

Moisture Magic: Add chicken broth gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.

Herb Harmony: Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried herbs, using a 3:1 ratio.

Make-Ahead Mastery: Prepare the dressing a day in advance to let flavors meld.

Baking Brilliance: Cover with foil for the first half of baking to prevent excessive browning.

Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 25 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8-10
• Equipment: Large skillet, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

For the Dressing Base:

• 6 cups crumbled cornbread (preferably stale or dried out)
• 3 cups cubed white bread (also dried out)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. This creates a flavorful base for your vegetables. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and cubed white bread. The mixture of breads creates a complex texture that's both crispy and tender.
4. Add the cooked onions and celery to the bread mixture, including all the butter from the skillet. This ensures maximum flavor distribution.
5. Sprinkle the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper over the bread mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to distribute the herbs and seasonings evenly.
6. Gradually pour the chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes, letting the bread absorb the liquid and develop rich flavors.
7. Stir in the beaten eggs until the mixture is well combined. The eggs help bind the dressing together and create a cohesive texture.
8. Transfer the dressing to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Use a spatula to create an even surface.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and crispy edges, which indicate perfect doneness.

Ready to Serve!

Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. The dressing will be hot and fragrant, ready to be the star of your holiday meal.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Can be stored for 3-4 days in the refrigerator
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results
• Avoid freezing to maintain optimal texture

Whether you're continuing a family tradition or creating new memories, this Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing brings the comfort of Southern cooking to your table. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a must-have side dish for any special occasion.

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