Mama’s Cornbread Dressing

 

Indulge in the timeless flavors of Mama’s Cornbread Dressing, a beloved Southern dish that graces tables during holidays and special gatherings.

This recipe captures the essence of tradition and comfort, offering a delightful combination of savory cornbread, aromatic herbs, and wholesome ingredients. Whether served as a side dish or the star of the meal, Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is sure to evoke fond memories and satisfy cravings for home-cooked goodness.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Baking dish or casserole dish
3. Skillet or sauté pan
4. Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 6 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cornbread: If you haven’t already, crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl. Ensure it’s in small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet or sauté pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the sautéed vegetables over the crumbled cornbread in the mixing bowl. Add the beaten eggs, chopped fresh parsley, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Moisten with Broth: Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the cornbread mixture, stirring gently to moisten everything evenly. The mixture should be moist but not soggy. Adjust the amount of broth as needed.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the cornbread dressing mixture to the greased baking dish or casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
8. Serve: Once done, remove the cornbread dressing from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes or as a comforting side any time of the year.