Follow these steps to make Granna’s Cornbread Dressing:
- Make the cornbread: Start by making a batch of homemade cornbread. Granna’s cornbread is often a simple mix of cornmeal, flour, eggs, milk, and butter, baked until golden. Once the cornbread is baked and cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set aside. (If you’re short on time, store-bought cornbread or cornbread mix can also work in a pinch.)
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the dressing mixture: In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, eggs, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning (if using). Stir everything together until well mixed. The mixture should be moist but not soupy. If it’s too dry, add a little more chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the cornbread mixture into the dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
- Bake the dressing: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the dressing from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add color and freshness.
Serving and Storage
This cornbread dressing serves 6-8 people, depending on portion size. It’s a great side dish for family dinners, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the dressing for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Tips
- Make it ahead: Granna’s Cornbread Dressing can be made a day ahead of time! Simply prepare the dressing, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. The flavors will meld, and it will be ready to bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Vary the herbs: If you want to experiment, try adding a pinch of rosemary or marjoram to enhance the flavor profile.
- Add sausage or bacon: For an even richer dressing, you can add cooked sausage or crumbled bacon to the mix. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to balance the added salt.
- Use homemade broth: If you have time, homemade chicken or turkey broth will bring even more depth of flavor to your dressing.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and omit the sausage or meat if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Granna’s Cornbread Dressing is a dish that brings the warmth and flavor of Southern hospitality to your table. The combination of cornbread, sautéed vegetables, savory herbs, and a moist, flavorful dressing is a true comfort food classic. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family gathering, this dressing is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, just like it has in so many others. Serve it alongside turkey, roast chicken, or any hearty main dish, and watch it become the star of the meal.
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?
- Yes! While homemade cornbread gives the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought cornbread or a cornbread mix in a pinch. Just crumble it into pieces as you would the homemade version.
- Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
- Yes, this dressing can be made a day ahead. Simply prepare it up until the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Can I freeze Granna’s Cornbread Dressing?
- Absolutely! You can freeze the dressing for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Can I add meat to this dressing?
- Yes, you can add cooked sausage, bacon, or even leftover turkey or chicken. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to balance the added salt and flavors.
- Can I make this dressing gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free cornbread and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.