Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing Recipe - Best Side Dish

Name: Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 5 cups cornbread, broken apart into pieces; 4 cups bread cubes, toasted; 1 ½ cups chicken broth; ½ cup butter, divided; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 stalks of celery, chopped; ⅓ cup parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 2 eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is a timeless Southern side dish that adds a comforting, savory touch to any meal. Made with crumbled cornbread, toasted bread cubes, vegetables, and plenty of butter, this dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s not only ideal for Thanksgiving but also makes a great addition to any family dinner throughout the year. This dressing is rich, moist, and never dry, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with cornbread and herbs

Why Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is a Must-Try

This Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing recipe stands out because of its unique blend of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the cornbread combined with the savory notes from the herbs and vegetables creates a harmonious side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or roast chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, taking just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy holiday dinners or a comforting weeknight meal. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or just because, this cornbread dressing will quickly become a staple in your cooking rotation.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

Gather these ingredients to make your Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing:

Cornbread: Crumbled for texture and flavor; homemade or store-bought works.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture, a key ingredient for the Southern flair.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the dressing moist and infuses it with flavor.
Onion: Adds savory depth to the dressing.
Celery: Provides a subtle crunch and aromatic flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives the dish a hint of brightness and color.
Thyme: A fragrant herb that enhances the savory notes of the dish.
Eggs: Help bind the mixture together and give the dressing structure.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you want to customize your Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing, here are some substitutions:

Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian version, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Gluten-Free Bread: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread cubes in place of regular bread.
Sausage: If you’re looking for extra flavor, add cooked sausage or turkey sausage for a savory twist.
Dried Cranberries: For a bit of sweetness, toss in some dried cranberries to balance the savory ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

Follow these steps to create the perfect Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing:

Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Crumble the cornbread into pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl. Toast your bread cubes on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through to ensure even toasting.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery and sauté for about 6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients
In the large bowl with crumbled cornbread, add the toasted bread cubes. Pour in the sautéed vegetables, melted butter, parsley, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Add Eggs and Bake
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then mix them into the cornbread mixture. Transfer everything into a greased 2-quart baking dish and bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the dressing cool for a few minutes before serving. The crispy edges and soft, flavorful interior will make this dish a standout on your dinner table.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cornbread Dressing

To make sure your Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips:

Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as this can make the dressing too mushy. Gently combine the ingredients for the perfect texture.
Add Extra Herbs: If you want to elevate the flavor, try adding a pinch of sage or rosemary along with the thyme for more depth.
Moisture Check: If the dressing looks too dry before baking, add a little extra chicken broth to ensure the mixture stays moist while baking.
Leftovers: If you have any leftover dressing, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use—just reheat it with a bit of broth to restore its moisture.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing

Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and side dishes:

Main Courses: Serve it alongside roast turkey, ham, or fried chicken for a comforting meal.
Side Dishes: Pair it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce for a well-rounded holiday feast.
Spicy Variation: For those who like a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing mixture.

If you’re making this dish in advance, you can prep it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven on the day of your meal for a quick and easy side dish that tastes like it’s fresh out of the oven.

Why This Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is a Holiday Staple

This cornbread dressing recipe has become a holiday tradition in many Southern homes because of its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply enjoying a family dinner, this recipe brings nostalgia and warmth to the table. It’s a great way to use up leftover cornbread and create a dish that everyone will enjoy. The blend of herbs and butter makes this dressing a timeless classic, and it’s sure to become a family favorite for generations to come.

Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a part of Southern culinary heritage, bringing people together with its delicious aroma and comforting flavors.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a cherished recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or on a cozy family night, this buttery, flavorful dressing is sure to become a family favorite. With its perfect balance of textures, savory herbs, and just the right amount of sweetness from the cornbread, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any time of the year. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delicious, Southern classic!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this cornbread dressing in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate the dish. On the day of serving, just pop it in the oven and bake until golden brown. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy holidays!

Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread is a perfect shortcut for this Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing. You can use store-bought cornbread or even cornbread muffins to save time without compromising on flavor.

How do I keep the dressing from getting too dry?

To prevent the dressing from drying out, make sure to add enough chicken broth to keep the mixture moist before baking. If necessary, you can also cover the dish with foil during baking and uncover it in the last 10 minutes for a crispy top.

More Relevant Recipes