Introduction
Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a cherished family recipe that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking. This flavorful dish combines crumbled cornbread with sautéed vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich broth, creating a moist and savory dressing that is perfect for any occasion.
Often served during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dressing is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting staple that evokes memories of family gatherings and shared meals. The warm, inviting aroma as it bakes fills the home with a sense of nostalgia and love.
With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is sure to become a beloved addition to your table, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy the comforting taste of home.
Ingredients
8 cups crumbled cornbread (about 1 batch of cornbread)
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
½ cup butter (1 stick)
2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust for desired moisture)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon sage (dried or fresh)
1 teaspoon thyme (dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the Cornbread:
Bake your favorite cornbread recipe and let it cool. Once cooled, crumble it into a large mixing bowl.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion, sautéing until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
Combine Ingredients:
Add the sautéed vegetables to the bowl of crumbled cornbread.
Stir in the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add Eggs and Broth:
In a separate bowl, whisk the beaten eggs and gradually mix them into the cornbread mixture.
Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring until the mixture is moist but not soggy. Adjust the amount of broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the dressing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake:
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
Method of Storage
To keep Mama’s Cornbread Dressing fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
After cooking, allow the dressing to cool to room temperature.
Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing:
Prepare for Freezing: Allow the dressing to cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Serving Leftovers
Reheating: If the dressing seems dry after refrigeration or freezing, add a little broth or water before reheating to restore moisture.
Presentation: Serve warm as a side dish, and consider pairing it with gravy for an extra touch of flavor.
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy Mama’s Cornbread Dressing while keeping it fresh and tasty!