Southern Cornbread Dressing is a timeless holiday favorite cherished across Southern kitchens for generations. With its tender, moist texture, rich savory flavor, and unmistakable notes of sage, this classic side dish is a true celebration of comfort food. Unlike stuffing, Southern dressing is baked in its own dish, allowing the cornbread to soak up aromatic broth, sautéed vegetables, and perfectly balanced seasonings. This recipe uses traditional techniques and simple ingredients to create a dish that tastes just like the one Grandma made—warm, hearty, and bursting with Southern charm. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday dinners, or anytime you're craving nostalgic home-cooked goodness.

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) pan

Ingredients

Cornbread Base (prepare ahead; day-old works best)

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil

Dressing Mixture

  • 6–7 cups crumbled cornbread
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil
  • 2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth (add more as needed for desired moisture)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1–2 teaspoons rubbed sage (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional but recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Optional Add-Ins (for traditional variations)

  • 1–2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken or turkey
  • Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary

Directions

Step 1: Make the Cornbread

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8-inch skillet or baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter; mix until just combined.
  4. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Let the cornbread cool completely, then crumble it finely. (Tip: Day-old cornbread gives the best texture for dressing.)

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and celery; cook until softened, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine the Dressing

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, sage, poultry seasoning, pepper, and any optional add-ins.
  2. Slowly pour in the broth until the mixture is very moist—almost pourable. Every batch of cornbread is different, so adjust the liquid as needed.
  3. Stir in the beaten eggs last to avoid scrambling them.
  4. Taste and adjust salt before baking.

Step 4: Bake the Dressing

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pour the mixture into the dish and smooth the top.
  3. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until set in the center and golden brown on top.
  4. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated

  • Calories: 285
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 86mg
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 9g

Conclusion

Southern Cornbread Dressing is one of those treasured recipes that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Whether you prepare it for a holiday feast or simply to enjoy a comforting side dish at home, this classic recipe delivers rich flavor, tender texture, and authentic Southern soul in every bite. Feel free to customize it with traditional add-ins or keep it simple and old-fashioned. Either way, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite—and one you’ll find yourself making year after year. Enjoy every savory spoonful!

RecipesThanksgiving RecipesHoliday Recipes