Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing: A Homestyle Holiday Favorite

Grandma’s Southern Cornbread Dressing

Get ready to savor the best cornbread dressing—a classic southern stuffing recipe that’s packed with sage, aromatics, and rich buttery flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Side Dish

• Holiday favorite: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive dinner table.
• Flavor-packed: Aromatic onions, celery, and savory sage blend flawlessly with homemade cornbread.
• Make-ahead ease: Prep everything a day before, then bake just before serving.
• Comfort food: Creamy, savory, and downright irresistible.

Ingredients for Cornbread Dressing

• 3 cups crumbled cornbread (day‐old or toasted)
• 3 cups cubed white bread
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare your base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Sauté onion and celery until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a big mixing bowl, toss together crumbled cornbread, cubed white bread, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the veggies: Pour the softened onion and celery into the bowl. Mix well so every crumb is seasoned.
4. Moisten the mixture: Whisk eggs and chicken broth together, then pour over the bread mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Bake to perfection: Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden brown on top.
6. Let it rest: Allow the dressing to sit for 5 minutes before serving to set up and maximize creaminess.

Chef’s Tips & Tricks

• Use stale cornbread for better texture—fresh crumbs can get gummy.
• Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.
• For a twist, stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or dried cranberries.
• Leftovers fry beautifully in butter the next morning—hello, crispy edges!

Serving and Storage

This cornbread dressing is ideal alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or any holiday roast. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Crunchy on top, creamy inside—this cornbread dressing will steal the show at your next family feast.