Classic Cornbread Dressing (Thanksgiving Dressing Guide)

Classic Cornbread Dressing is the heart and soul of a traditional holiday table. Rich, savory, fluffy in the center with a lightly crisp golden top, this Southern-style dressing is made with crumbled cornbread, bread crumbs, sautéed vegetables, herbs, butter, eggs, and broth. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely essential for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between moist and fluffy, savory and aromatic, and simple yet deeply flavorful. Whether you’re making it alongside roast turkey, baked chicken, or holiday ham, this cornbread dressing will steal the spotlight every time.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Dressing

Classic Southern flavor with sage and poultry seasoning
Perfect texture — moist inside, lightly crisp on top
Make-ahead friendly for stress-free holidays
Feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully
Pairs perfectly with turkey, chicken, or ham

Ingredients

Celery (2 cups, chopped) — Adds freshness and savory depth
Large onions (2, chopped) — Provide sweetness and aroma
Margarine (1 stick) — Used to sauté vegetables for richness
Butter (1 stick) — Adds classic flavor and moisture
Crumbled buttermilk cornbread (5 cups, dry) — The heart of the dressing
Dry bread crumbs (5 cups) — Adds structure and balance
Turkey or chicken broth (3 cups) — Keeps the dressing moist and savory
Large eggs (4, beaten) — Bind everything together
Poultry seasoning (1½ tsp) — Brings traditional holiday flavor
Sage (3 tsp or to taste) — Adds earthy warmth
Salt (1 tsp or to taste) — Enhances all flavors
Black pepper (1 tsp or to taste) — Adds gentle heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a large baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the margarine and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, bread crumbs, beaten eggs, sautéed vegetables, broth, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist but not soupy — add more broth if needed.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and lightly crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tips for Perfect Dressing

Use day-old cornbread for better texture.
Add a little more broth if you prefer softer dressing.
For extra richness, drizzle melted butter on top before baking.
For added flavor, stir in cooked sausage or shredded turkey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roast turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce
Pair with baked ham and green beans
Enjoy leftovers with fried eggs for breakfast

Final Thoughts

This Classic Cornbread Dressing is a timeless holiday favorite that delivers everything you want in a traditional side dish — comfort, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and tastes even better the next day. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this recipe deserves a permanent place on your table.

Save this recipe, share it with family, and enjoy a dish that brings everyone together.