Holiday Cornbread Dressing is a comforting Southern classic that makes the perfect side dish for any festive meal. It’s a rich combination of cornbread, aromatic vegetables, and savory herbs, brought together by flavorful broth. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd favorite. Its warm, homey flavors and crisp, golden edges make it an irresistible addition to your table.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 cups crumbled cornbread (preferably day-old)
- 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole grain)
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and celery until soft, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the broth and mix until the bread is moistened. Stir in the beaten eggs.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Storing and Preserving
Store leftover cornbread dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the dressing in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
- Too Dry: If your dressing turns out dry, you may not have added enough broth. To fix this, pour a little extra warm broth over the top before baking.
- Too Mushy: Avoid adding too much broth at once. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed to reach the right consistency.
- Bland Flavor: Ensure you season the dressing well. If it tastes bland, consider adding more herbs, salt, or even a bit of poultry seasoning.
FAQs about Holiday Cornbread Dressing
- Can I make the dressing ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then bake it on the day you plan to serve it.
- Can I use store-bought cornbread? Absolutely, but homemade cornbread gives a more authentic flavor. Make sure it’s a day old for the best texture.
- Can I add meat to the dressing? Yes, cooked sausage or diced chicken are great additions that enhance the flavor.
- Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, just substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
- How do I prevent the dressing from being too dense? Use a good mix of cornbread and regular bread, and don’t pack the dressing tightly into the baking dish.
Conclusion
Holiday Cornbread Dressing brings together simple, earthy flavors to create a warm and nostalgic side dish for your holiday table. Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey or ham, it’s sure to complement any festive meal. With a little prep and the right seasoning, you’ll have a flavorful dish that guests will love year after year.