Introduction
As the autumn chill begins to settle in and the holidays approach, few dishes evoke the warmth of family gatherings quite like Mama’s Classic Cornbread Dressing. A cherished recipe that brings together the earthy flavors of cornbread, savory herbs, and rich chicken broth, this dressing is the epitome of comfort food. Whether served alongside a golden turkey or as a standalone dish, each bite promises a delightful burst of flavor that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 batch cornbread, crumbled
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to warm up while you prepare the dressing.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the diced onion and celery, sautéing them until they become fragrant and softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed onion and celery, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to ensure the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined, creating a moist and flavorful mixture.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, and pour the cornbread dressing mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the dressing is set with a slight crispness.
- Allow the dressing to cool for a few minutes before serving, letting those irresistible aromas fill your kitchen!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked sausage to the mixture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. This dressing can also be made ahead of time; simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the onion and celery not only enhances their flavors but also adds a wonderful depth to the dressing. The key to achieving a golden-brown top is to avoid overmixing, so once your ingredients are combined, allow them to settle in the baking dish without fussing too much! This will help create that desirable texture.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought cornbread?
Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread can save you time and still deliver a delicious result. Just crumble it finely before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is cornbread dressing the same as stuffing?
While both are made from bread and seasonings, dressing is typically baked separately from the bird, offering a different texture and flavor profile compared to traditional stuffing.
Conclusion
This Mama’s Classic Cornbread Dressing is not just a side dish; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for holiday gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners. With its simple yet rich flavors, it’s a recipe destined to be passed down through generations. So gather your loved ones, savor the memories, and enjoy every bite of this heartwarming dish!