Classic Cornbread Dressing
Few dishes say comfort, tradition, and family gatherings quite like
Classic Cornbread Dressing. This timeless Southern favorite brings together
crumbly cornbread, dry bread crumbs, aromatic vegetables, rich broth, and warm
herbs like sage and poultry seasoning to create a savory side dish that feels
like home.
Whether it’s served alongside roast turkey at Thanksgiving, paired with
Sunday chicken, or enjoyed as a holiday staple passed down through generations,
this dressing delivers deep flavor, soft texture, and nostalgic goodness in
every bite.
Why This Cornbread Dressing Is a Classic
- Old-Fashioned Flavor: Made the way Southern kitchens have done it for generations.
- Perfect Texture: Moist on the inside with a lightly golden top.
- Holiday-Ready: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and family gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when needed.
- Comfort Food Approved: Simple ingredients, big flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 1 stick margarine
- 5 cups crumbled buttermilk cornbread (dry)
- 5 cups dry bread crumbs
- 3 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1 stick butter
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 3 teaspoons sage (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
How to Make Classic Cornbread Dressing
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Lightly grease a large baking pan or casserole dish and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the margarine.
Add the chopped celery and onions and sauté until soft, fragrant,
and translucent. This step builds the base flavor of the dressing.
Step 3: Combine the Dressing Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Sautéed celery and onions
- Beaten eggs
- Crumbled cornbread
- Dry bread crumbs
- Turkey or chicken broth
- Poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper
Stir until fully combined. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
If it feels dry, add a little extra broth until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 4: Bake the Dressing
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional
10 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and
the dressing is set. The internal temperature should reach
165°F (74°C).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roast turkey or baked chicken
- Perfect with gravy and cranberry sauce
- Great as a holiday potluck dish
- Delicious leftover the next day
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for
3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
To make ahead, assemble the dressing up to 24 hours in advance,
cover tightly, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Tip: Want a richer flavor? Replace part of the broth
with pan drippings or add a tablespoon of melted butter over the top
before the final bake.