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Old Fashion Cornbread Dressing

Old Fashion Cornbread Dressing
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Old Fashion Cornbread Dressing is a classic Southern holiday side dish combining crumbly day-old cornbread with sautéed aromatics, fresh herbs, eggs, and chicken broth. Baked to a golden, crispy top with a moist, fluffy interior, this comforting dressing perfectly complements turkey, ham, or roast, and can be customized for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Cornbread Base

  • 4 cups day-old cornbread, crumbled

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup onion, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons butter

Liquids and Binder

  • 2 to 2 ½ cups warm chicken broth
  • 3 large eggs

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cornbread: Crumble day-old cornbread into a large mixing bowl to create the ideal base that absorbs moisture well without becoming mushy.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant, forming a sweet and savory foundation.
  3. Mix the Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs (sage, thyme, parsley), eggs, salt, and pepper to the cornbread. Gradually pour in warm chicken broth, stirring gently until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
  4. Bake the Dressing: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until the top is golden and crispy, and the inside remains tender and flavorful.

Notes

  • Use day-old cornbread rather than fresh to prevent sogginess and ensure perfect texture.
  • Gently fold ingredients to keep the dressing light and avoid compacting the mixture.
  • Add the chicken broth gradually to avoid making the dressing too wet or soupy.
  • Fresh herbs offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
  • Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes before baking to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread dressing, southern dressing, holiday side dish, baked dressing, gluten-free dressing

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/old-fashion-cornbread-dressing/