Description
Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a classic Southern side dish featuring a savory blend of sautéed onions and celery mixed with toasted bread, crumbled cornbread, and aromatic herbs. Moistened with rich turkey broth and baked to golden perfection, this dressing offers comforting flavors perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups chopped onions
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Base
- 4 cups finely crumbled toasted bread
- 4 cups finely crumbled cornbread
Dairy
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 large eggs, beaten
Liquids
- Turkey broth (enough to moisten the mixture, approximately 2 to 3 cups)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery and sauté until tender and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- Combine Bread Mixtures: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely crumbled toasted bread and cornbread, ensuring they are evenly mixed.
- Add Seasonings and Eggs: To the bread mixture, add the sautéed onions and celery along with the dried sage, poultry seasoning, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Moisten with Broth: Gradually add turkey broth to the mixture, stirring gently until the dressing is moist but not soggy. Use approximately 2 to 3 cups, adjusting as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Bake the Dressing: Transfer the moistened dressing mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
Notes
- Use day-old cornbread and bread for best texture in the dressing.
- Adjust the amount of turkey broth to avoid a soggy or dry dressing.
- For added flavor, consider including chopped fresh parsley or a touch of chopped sage leaves.
- This dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, just add additional baking time if baking from cold.
- To make gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free bread and cornbread.
