Nothing says the holidays quite like the warm, savory aroma of cornbread dressing wafting from the kitchen. Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish it’s a cherished family tradition that brings everyone to the table. With buttery sautéed veggies, the earthy hint of sage, and the comforting texture of crumbled cornbread, this recipe embodies everything we love about holiday meals.
Why Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing Stands Out
- Simple Yet Flavorful: Using everyday ingredients like cornbread, onion, celery, and chicken stock, this dish is packed with comforting, nostalgic flavors.
- Versatile: Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey, ham, or a vegetarian roast, it pairs beautifully with any holiday spread.
- Passed Down with Love: It’s a recipe rooted in tradition, made with love, and enjoyed by generations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Essentials:
- 3 cups crumbled cornbread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup chopped celery
The Binders and Flavor Boosters:
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon dried sage (or more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and have them ready to go. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 7×11-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Cornbread Base
Place your crumbled cornbread in a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your dressing.
4. Sauté the Veggies
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and chopped celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Combine Ingredients
- Add the sautéed onion and celery to the cornbread.
- Stir in the beaten eggs, chicken stock, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the dressing cool slightly before serving. Pair it with turkey, gravy, or cranberry sauce for a holiday meal to remember!
Pro Tips for Success
- Cornbread Shortcuts: No time to bake from scratch? Use pre-made cornbread or a boxed mix to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Love the earthy taste of sage? Add an extra teaspoon or two to the mixture for a more herbaceous kick.
- Make Ahead: This dressing can be assembled the day before and baked fresh on the day of your event.
Why This Recipe is a Holiday Staple
Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing isn’t just a side dish; it’s the heart of the holidays. The buttery cornbread and tender vegetables, seasoned to perfection, create a dish that’s warm, nostalgic, and full of love. Every bite tells a story of family gatherings, laughter, and shared traditions.
Recipe Card
Grandma's Cornbread Dressing
Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dressing is a warm, nostalgic tribute to Grandma’s table!
Ingredients
3 cups crumbled cornbread
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, diced
½ cup chopped celery
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups chicken stock
1 tablespoon dried sage (or more to taste)
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and placing them in separate bowls for easy access. This makes the preparation process smoother and more organized.
- Preheat and Grease :Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 7x11-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, crumble the cornbread and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, and cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened. This step enhances the flavor of the dressing.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onion and celery mixture to the bowl of crumbled cornbread. Stir in the chicken stock, beaten eggs, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it is well combined and forms a cohesive mixture.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown and the top is set.
- Serve: Allow the dressing to cool slightly before serving. Slice it into portions and enjoy the comforting flavors of Grandma’s classic recipe.
Notes
- Save time by using pre-made cornbread or a boxed mix. Follow the package instructions for quick and delicious results.
Serve and Savor
As you dish up Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing this holiday season, take a moment to savor the memories it brings. Whether it’s a new addition to your feast or a recipe that’s been on your table for years, this dressing is bound to be a hit.
Here’s to full plates, happy hearts, and cherished traditions!