Classic Cornbread Dressing – A Holiday Tradition Made Easy

Classic Cornbread Dressing is the heart of every holiday table. With its golden cornbread base, fragrant herbs, and tender vegetables, this comforting side dish delivers everything you love about Southern-inspired tradition. Moist on the inside with a slightly crisp top, this dressing pairs perfectly with turkey, chicken, or ham. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner, it’s a recipe that brings everyone back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Traditional Flavors: Savory, herby, and perfectly seasoned.
Golden & Moist: Crispy on top, tender in the center.
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for big family gatherings.
Make Ahead Friendly: Easy to prep the day before.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cornbread, crumbled (day-old works best)
• 1 cup whole wheat or white bread cubes (slightly stale)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil or light butter
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1 tsp dried sage (or fresh if available)
• ½ tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare Vegetables
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until softened and fragrant, about 5–6 minutes.

3. Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread and bread cubes. Add the cooked onion and celery.

4. Add Seasonings & Liquid
Stir in poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth gradually until mixture is moistened but not soggy. Mix in beaten eggs.

5. Bake the Dressing
Spread mixture evenly in prepared dish. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown on top and set in the middle.

6. Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use Day-Old Cornbread: It absorbs broth better and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t Over-Saturate: Add broth gradually until mixture is moist but holds shape.
• Add Extras: Stir in chopped apples, sausage, or mushrooms for variety.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the mixture a day before, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Why This Recipe Works

This dressing combines classic flavors with simple ingredients, letting the cornbread shine while herbs and aromatics add depth. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and dependable—just like holiday cooking should be.

Classic Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth to any meal. Golden, savory, and soul-satisfying, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot at your holiday table year after year.