A true Southern classic, Southern Cornbread Dressing is a rich, buttery, and herb-infused side dish that pairs perfectly with holiday meals. Made with crumbled cornbread, savory herbs, sautéed vegetables, and chicken stock, this dressing is moist, flavorful, and packed with comforting warmth.

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Whether you serve it with roast turkey, baked ham, or fried chicken, this dressing is a must-have at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Traditional Southern comfort – A holiday staple in the South.
Moist & flavorful – Perfectly balanced herbs and buttery richness.
Easy to make ahead – Prep in advance for stress-free cooking.
Customizable – Adjust the seasonings and texture to suit your taste.

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Part 1: Preparation & Cooking Guide

Essential Tools & Equipment

To make this dressing perfectly every time, here are the key tools you’ll need:

✔ Large mixing bowl – For combining all ingredients.
✔ 9×13-inch casserole dish – Ideal for even baking.
✔ Large sauté pan – For cooking the vegetables.
✔ Whisk or fork – To beat the eggs smoothly.
✔ Wooden spoon or spatula – For mixing.
✔ Aluminum foil – Helps retain moisture while baking.
✔ Non-stick cooking spray – Prevents sticking.

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Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

6 cups cornbread – Homemade or store-bought, crumbled (see Note 2)
6 cups Italian bread – Cubed for texture contrast (see Note 2)
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture
1 large onion, diced – Brings deep, aromatic flavor
4 stalks celery, diced – Provides a subtle crunch
3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory taste
2-3 cups fat-free chicken stock – Keeps the dressing moist (homemade preferred)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness
2 teaspoons poultry seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs
1 teaspoon ground sage – A classic cornbread dressing spice
1 teaspoon ground thyme – Earthy, aromatic, and slightly minty
1 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors
1 teaspoon black pepper – For a mild kick
2 large eggs, beaten – Helps bind the ingredients together
Non-stick cooking spray – For greasing the baking dish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

For the best texture, the bread should be slightly dry. This helps it soak up the flavors without becoming soggy.

Slice the cornbread and Italian bread into small cubes.

To dry the bread:

• Option 1: Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and leave them out overnight.
• Option 2: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until slightly hardened.

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2. Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.

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3. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add diced celery and onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.

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4. Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Dried cornbread and Italian bread cubes
Sautéed vegetables
2 cups chicken stock (add more as needed)
Chopped fresh parsley
Poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper

Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.

If too dry, add more stock gradually—moist but not soggy is the goal.

Stir in the beaten eggs, making sure everything is evenly combined.

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5. Assemble & Bake

Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for 20 more minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.

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6. Serve & Enjoy

Let the dressing cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Serve alongside turkey, ham, or roasted chicken for the ultimate Southern meal!

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Recipe Notes & Tips

Bread Tip: A mix of cubed and crumbled cornbread gives the best texture.

Stock Tip: Add stock gradually to prevent sogginess. The amount needed depends on how dry your bread is.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the dressing a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Best Dishes to Serve with Southern Cornbread Dressing

Southern cornbread dressing is a rich and savory side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains and side dishes. Here are some of the best options to serve alongside it:

Main Dishes

1. Roast Turkey – A classic Thanksgiving pairing that balances the flavors of the dressing.
2. Baked Ham – The sweet and salty contrast works beautifully with the herb-infused dressing.
3. Fried Chicken – A crispy, flavorful main that adds texture to the meal.
4. Smothered Pork Chops – A Southern-style dish with a rich, creamy gravy.

Side Dishes

5. Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A creamy, buttery side that complements the dressing’s texture.
6. Collard Greens – A Southern staple cooked with smoky flavors.
7. Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet-tart contrast that enhances the dressing.
8. Sweet Potato Casserole – A slightly sweet and creamy side that balances the dish’s savory notes.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Drying the Bread Properly

Using fresh bread without drying it out first can make the dressing too mushy. Let the bread sit out overnight or bake it for 10 minutes at 350°F to achieve the right texture.

2. Adding Too Much Stock at Once

Gradually add the chicken stock instead of pouring it all in at once. The goal is a moist but not soggy consistency. Start with two cups and add more as needed.

3. Skipping the Seasoning

Cornbread dressing relies on herbs and spices like poultry seasoning, sage, and thyme for its signature Southern flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking.

4. Forgetting to Taste the Mixture

Since this dish is all about balance, tasting the dressing before baking ensures you have the right seasoning level. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs if needed.

5. Overbaking the Dressing

Baking too long can make the dressing dry. Keep it covered for the first 30 minutes, then uncover it for the last 20 minutes to get a golden, slightly crisp top while maintaining moisture inside.

6. Not Using Enough Butter

Butter adds richness and depth of flavor. If you reduce the butter amount too much, the dressing may taste dry and bland. Stick to the recommended portion for the best results.

7. Omitting the Eggs

Eggs help bind the dressing together and give it a slightly firm texture. Without them, the dressing may crumble too much.

8. Not Making It Ahead of Time

Cornbread dressing tastes even better when made in advance. Assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Cornbread Dressing

Proper storage helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dressing.

• Refrigerator: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dressing, cover it tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Reheat Cornbread Dressing

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even reheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of stock to keep it moist.

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FAQs

1. Can I make cornbread dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Can I use all cornbread instead of mixing with white bread?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and more crumbly. The addition of white bread helps provide structure.

3. How do I make this dressing vegetarian?

Substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock. Everything else remains the same.

4. Can I add meat to this dressing?

Yes, cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken can be mixed in for extra flavor. Brown the sausage or bacon before adding it to the mixture.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cornbread and omit the white bread. Make sure your poultry seasoning and broth are also gluten-free.

6. What can I do if my dressing is too dry?

Add warm chicken stock a little at a time until the dressing reaches the desired consistency. Cover it with foil while reheating to prevent further drying out.

7. What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing?

Traditionally, stuffing is cooked inside the turkey, while dressing is baked separately in a dish. The ingredients are often similar, but dressing has a crispier top.

8. Can I use store-bought cornbread?

Yes, but homemade cornbread provides a richer flavor and better texture. If using store-bought, choose one that is not too sweet.

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Conclusion

Southern Cornbread Dressing is a comforting and flavorful side dish that belongs on every holiday table. With its perfect balance of buttery cornbread, aromatic herbs, and moist, savory goodness, this dish is a true Southern classic.

By following the preparation, serving, and storage tips, you can ensure your cornbread dressing turns out moist, delicious, and full of flavor every time. Whether served with turkey, ham, or fried chicken, this dish is sure to be a favorite at your next gathering.