Get ready to elevate your holiday table with these 18 savory cornbread dressing recipes that pack a punch of Southern flavor! Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to mix things up, we’ve got you covered. From classic buttermilk-based dressings to spicy jalapeño twists and smoky chipotle flavors, each recipe is designed to complement your favorite turkey or roast.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of cornbread dressing with recipes that incorporate everything from crispy bacon and melted cheddar to sweet and savory apples and crunchy pecans. And don’t even get us started on the herbs – thyme, sage, and rosemary are just a few of the fresh flavors you can add to give your dressing an extra boost.
So grab a cup of coffee (or eggnog, we won’t judge), put on your stretchy pants, and get ready to dive into the world of cornbread dressing. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing: A warm, comforting side dish that’s a staple of many Southern holiday tables. This recipe combines the crumbly goodness of cornbread with savory herbs and spices to create a dressing that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, sage, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss until well combined.
4. Add the chicken broth and mix until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and spicy cornbread dressing recipe. This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of jalapeños with the comfort of classic cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, cilantro, bell pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and satisfying cornbread dressing recipe, infused with the rich flavors of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled bacon and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, cooked onion mixture, chicken broth, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.
6. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Infused Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful cornbread dressing infused with a blend of herbs. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, parsley, and sage.
3. Pour in melted butter, stirring until the mixture is evenly coated.
4. Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper; stir until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Sage Cornbread Dressing
This savory dressing combines the warmth of sausage, the earthiness of sage, and the comfort of cornbread to create a perfect accompaniment for your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside. Leave drippings in the pan.
4. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened.
5. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, and vegetable mixture.
6. Stir in chicken broth, honey, sage, salt, and pepper until cornbread is evenly moistened.
7. Transfer dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Savory Cornbread Dressing with Apples
Elevate your holiday table with this unique cornbread dressing recipe that combines the warmth of apples with the comfort of sweet and savory flavors. This moist and flavorful side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté apples and herbs in melted butter until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, apple mixture, and seasonings. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Pecan Cornbread Dressing
This sweet and savory dressing combines the warmth of cornbread with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped up in a crunchy pecan crust. Perfect for your next holiday gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cornbread crumbs
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread crumbs, pecans, and melted butter.
3. Stir in dried cranberries, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and poultry seasoning.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday dinner with this flavorful cornbread dressing infused with the deep smokiness of chipotle peppers. This recipe combines the comfort of cornbread with a spicy kick, perfect for pairing with roasted turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the chipotle peppers and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed mixture, chicken broth, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix until well combined and pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Cornbread Dressing with Green Chiles
This flavorful cornbread dressing combines the warmth of green chiles with the comfort of melted cheese, making it a perfect addition to your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green chiles (canned or fresh)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, grated cheese, and green chiles to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday table with this savory and aromatic cornbread dressing infused with earthy mushrooms and fragrant thyme. Perfect for stuffing turkey or serving alongside roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and onion in butter until softened.
3. Add chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, cooked mushroom mixture, thyme, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory and sweet cornbread dressing, infused with the deep flavors of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked onions, melted butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Andouille Sausage
This Southern-inspired dressing combines the warmth of cornbread with the spicy kick of Andouille sausage, perfect for accompanying your holiday turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked sausage and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the crumbled cornbread, butter, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Add the sausage mixture to the cornbread mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory cornbread dressing, infused with the richness of maple syrup. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the brightness of fresh herbs and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine melted butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, maple syrup, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add crumbled cornbread and stir until well coated with the liquid mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with chopped parsley.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Dried Cherries and Walnuts
Elevate your holiday feast with this sweet and savory cornbread dressing, infused with the natural sweetness of dried cherries and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chicken broth, dried cherries, walnuts, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked onion mixture to the bowl and mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Garlic Cornbread Dressing
Roasted Garlic Cornbread Dressing: Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and aromatic side dish that combines the warmth of roasted garlic with the comforting crumb of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, cubed
– 4-6 cloves roasted garlic, mashed (see roasting instructions below)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine cornbread, roasted garlic, chicken broth, melted butter, parsley, and poultry seasoning. Toss until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
Roasting Garlic:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the top off of 6-8 garlic cloves, exposing the inside.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until soft and mashed.
Cornbread Dressing with Smoked Turkey
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory cornbread dressing infused with the rich flavor of smoked turkey. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread, the comfort of herbs, and the boldness of smoky turkey for a truly unforgettable side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cooked smoked turkey
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the cornbread mixture with melted butter, parsley, scallions, poultry seasoning, and smoked paprika until lightly toasted.
3. Add diced smoked turkey and stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Collard Greens
This hearty side dish combines the comfort of cornbread dressing with the nutritional boost of collard greens, perfect for your next family gathering or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh collard greens
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in melted butter until softened.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, collard greens, chicken broth, and poultry seasoning. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Butternut Squash
Elevate your holiday meal with this delicious twist on classic cornbread dressing, featuring roasted butternut squash for added sweetness and depth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and roasted until tender
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the roasted butternut squash, melted butter, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the crumbled cornbread to the skillet and stir until coated with the squash mixture.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings with these 18 savory cornbread dressing recipes that pack Southern flair! From classic twists to bold flavors, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy the comfort of traditional dishes like Bacon and Cheddar or Sausage and Sage, or try something new like Spicy Jalapeño or Sweet and Savory with Apples. Whether you’re a fan of smoky chipotle or cheesy green chiles, these recipes will add a dash of Southern charm to your table. So go ahead, get creative, and make this holiday season one to remember!
