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Cozy Southern Cornbread Dressing: Easy Homemade Recipe

cozy southern cornbread dressing - featured image

This Cozy Southern Cornbread Dressing is a savory, warm, and deeply comforting dish made with simple pantry staples. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal, it’s moist and tender in the center with a beautifully crisp, golden-brown top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups crumbled day-old cornbread (about one 9x13 pan)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups diced yellow onion (about 1 large onion)
  • 1 ½ cups diced celery (about 4–5 stalks)
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 to 4 cups low-sodium chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage (optional)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries or chopped apple (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes until onions are translucent and celery is softened.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add 6 cups of crumbled day-old cornbread. Pour the sautéed onion and celery mixture (with all the butter) over the cornbread. Toss gently to coat.
  4. Sprinkle chopped sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper over the cornbread mixture. Toss to distribute herbs evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 lightly beaten eggs and 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth until frothy.
  6. Pour the egg and broth mixture over the seasoned cornbread. Fold gently until evenly moistened. If dry, add remaining broth a quarter cup at a time until it holds its shape when pressed.
  7. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread into an even layer without pressing down too firmly.
  8. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbling. If browning too quickly, tent with foil after 30 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For make-ahead, assemble through step 6, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if starting from cold. Dressing freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread dressing, southern dressing, Thanksgiving side, homemade dressing, comfort food