Mama’s Cornbread Dressing

Introduction

Cornbread dressing is a classic Southern dish that is perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner. This recipe, passed down through generations, is a delicious and comforting accompaniment to roasted turkey or chicken. The combination of cornbread, savory herbs, vegetables, and broth creates a flavorful and moist dressing that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Cornbread:

• 2 cups cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Dressing:

• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups crumbled cornbread
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Crumble the cooled cornbread into a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed vegetables, dried sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Bake the Dressing

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Transfer the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pour the broth over the top, ensuring that all of the dressing is moistened. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Variations

While Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is delicious as is, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Include diced cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dressing.
• Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or thyme for extra freshness.
• For a touch of sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins.

Tips

• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Make the cornbread a day ahead to save time on the day of preparation. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Leftover dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a cherished recipe that brings warmth and tradition to any table. With its classic combination of flavors and comforting texture, it is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served alongside a holiday feast or enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal, this cornbread dressing is a true Southern delight.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread if you prefer. Simply crumble it and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

2. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.

3. Can I freeze the cornbread dressing?

Yes, you can freeze the cornbread dressing. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.