✦ WHAT YOU'LL NEED
For the cornbread:
• 1 batch of homemade cornbread, about 8–9 inches square, cooled and crumbled
For the dressing:
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3–4 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium
• 1 teaspoon rubbed sage, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley, optional
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→ LET'S MAKE IT!
① PREPARE THE CORNBREAD
Bake your favorite cornbread recipe and let it cool completely. Crumble it into a large mixing bowl.
For the best texture, prepare the cornbread a day ahead and let it dry slightly before crumbling.
② COOK THE VEGETABLES
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
③ BUILD THAT CLASSIC SOUTHERN FLAVOR
Add the softened vegetables to the crumbled cornbread. Sprinkle in the sage, poultry seasoning, thyme, black pepper, and parsley if using.
Toss gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
④ ADD THE BROTH AND EGGS
Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and stir gently. Add the beaten eggs and mix until combined.
The mixture should be very moist, similar to thick, spoonable batter. Add more broth as needed, but avoid making it soupy.
⑤ FILL THE BAKING DISH
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9 × 13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly without packing it down too firmly.
⑥ BAKE UNTIL GOLDEN
Bake uncovered for approximately 45–55 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
For food safety, the center should reach 165°F (74°C). If the top browns too quickly before the center is ready, cover loosely with foil.
⑦ REST AND SERVE
Let the dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it settle while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Serve warm alongside your favorite Southern dishes!
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✧ MAKE IT YOUR OWN
» Extra Savory: Add shredded cooked chicken or turkey.
» A Little Southern Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
» Herb Lovers: Adjust the sage and thyme to suit your taste.
» More Texture: Add a handful of chopped toasted pecans.
» Rich and Buttery: Drizzle a little melted butter over the top before baking.
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★ THE SECRET TO GREAT CORNBREAD DRESSING
It's all about the moisture!
Cornbread absorbs broth differently depending on how dry it is, so add the liquid gradually. You want the mixture moist before baking, not watery.
Also, season carefully. Sage is a signature flavor in traditional Southern dressing, but too much can overpower the other ingredients. Start with the suggested amount and adjust to your family's preference.
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♥ A TRADITION THAT BRINGS EVERYONE TO THE TABLE
Some recipes are more than food—they're part of family gatherings, holiday memories, and traditions passed from one kitchen to another.
Southern cornbread dressing belongs right in the middle of that table, ready to be served beside turkey, gravy, green beans, and all the dishes that make a meal feel special.
One golden pan. A familiar aroma. A taste of home in every spoonful.
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✦ YOUR TURN!
What's the one ingredient your family NEVER leaves out of cornbread dressing?
» Extra sage
» Chopped celery and onions
» Shredded chicken
» A generous spoonful of gravy on top
Share your family's favorite version in the comments, and save this recipe for your next Sunday dinner or holiday gathering!
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Thank you for spending a little time with us today. ❤️
✍️ Written with care by BASSMA EL-HAZIBI
