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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the past, look no further than Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe. This classic Southern staple brings together crumbly cornbread, tender vegetables, and fragrant herbs all baked into one irresistible casserole that’s bursting with comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of dish that truly honors tradition while filling your home with the most inviting aromas. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe will quickly become a treasured favorite that tastes just like Grandma used to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the crumbly texture of cornbread to the fresh, aromatic bite of sage—creating a perfect balance of flavor and consistency that feels both indulgent and homey.
- Cornbread (1 10-inch skillet): The heart of the dish, offering a tender yet slightly crumbly base that soaks up all the savory goodness.
- Biscuits (6): Adds an extra layer of softness and helps the dressing hold together wonderfully.
- Saltine crackers (1 sleeve): Brings a subtle crunch and saltiness to enhance overall texture.
- Large eggs (5, slightly beaten): Acts as the binding agent to keep everything moist but intact after baking.
- Celery (3 stalks, chopped): Offers fresh, crisp undertones that give the dish a bright, lively note.
- Medium onion (1, chopped): Lends sweetness and depth that perfectly balances the savory flavors.
- Fresh sage (1 Tbsp, chopped): Adds that unmistakable earthy herbal fragrance that defines classic Southern dressing.
- Poultry seasoning (2 tsp): A blend that deepens the comforting, homestyle flavor you want in every bite.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Gives just a hint of heat and sharpness.
- Salt (to taste): Naturally enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Chicken broth (5 cans, 14.5 oz each): Provides the rich, moist base that makes the dressing wonderfully juicy and flavorful.
How to Make Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 450ºF and lightly spraying two 9×13-inch baking dishes to ensure your dressing doesn’t stick while baking. This step helps everything cook evenly and develop that perfectly golden crust.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a large bowl, crumble the cornbread, biscuits, and saltine crackers together. The combination of these three components is what gives Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe its signature texture—soft but with a delightful crumb.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Fold in the chopped celery, onion, fresh sage, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and salt. These ingredients add wonderful layers of flavor and a fresh, aromatic touch that keep each bite exciting and balanced.
Step 4: Mix in Eggs and Broth
Pour the slightly beaten eggs over the mixture and then add all five cans of chicken broth. Stir everything gently but thoroughly. The mixture will be quite wet, which is perfect, as it will bake into a moist yet structured dressing that’s absolutely heavenly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Spread the moist dressing mixture evenly into the prepared baking dishes. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden and the inside is cooked through but still wonderfully tender. The aroma at this point will be enough to have everyone eagerly waiting at the table.
How to Serve Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or additional sage on top just before serving. A few crisp fried sage leaves give an elegant, crunchy garnish that complements the soft texture perfectly.
Side Dishes
Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe pairs beautifully with traditional mains like roast turkey, glazed ham, or fried chicken. Add a side of green beans or collard greens for a classic Southern spread that feels complete and soulful.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic into an impressive side by baking it in individual ramekins for single servings. You could also layer it in a casserole dish with shredded cooked chicken for a festive twist that doubles as a hearty main course.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover cornbread dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making for even tastier leftovers.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick comfort meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in, so the dressing doesn’t dry out but stays creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cornbread or biscuits?
Absolutely! While homemade adds a special touch, high-quality store-bought cornbread and biscuits work just fine and save time without sacrificing flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh sage?
Dried sage can be used in a pinch, but fresh sage really brings that authentic aroma. If you must use dried, reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon to avoid bitterness.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with a rich vegetable broth, and omit any meats served alongside for a delicious vegetarian option.
Is it okay if the cornbread dressing mixture looks too wet?
Yes, the mixture should be wet before baking to ensure the dressing turns out moist and tender, not dry. Trust the recipe and the baking step will do the rest.
How long can I make the dressing ahead of time?
You can prepare the dressing mixture the day before, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh the next day. This makes holiday cooking much more manageable!
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe to bring the whole family to the table, sharing stories and laughter over a dish loaded with love and tradition. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished favorite for generations. So grab your mixing bowl, cozy up with these simple ingredients, and create a memory that tastes just as good as the ones made long ago.
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Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Grandma’s Famous Cornbread Dressing is a hearty, comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals or family gatherings. Made with crumbled cornbread, biscuits, and saltine crackers, combined with flavorful herbs and chicken broth, it bakes into a moist and savory dressing with a golden crust.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 (10-inch) skillet of cornbread
- 6 biscuits
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers
Wet Ingredients
- 5 large eggs (slightly beaten)
- 5 (14.5-oz) cans chicken broth
Vegetables and Herbs
- 3 stalks celery (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 Tbsp fresh sage (chopped)
Seasonings
- 2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450ºF (232ºC) and lightly spray two 9×13-inch baking dishes to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Mixture: Crumble the cornbread, biscuits, and saltine crackers into a large mixing bowl. Add the slightly beaten eggs, chopped celery, chopped onion, fresh sage, poultry seasoning, black pepper, salt to taste, and the chicken broth. Stir everything thoroughly. The mixture will be very wet, which is expected for a moist dressing.
- Transfer to Baking Dishes: Pour the wet cornbread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dishes, spreading it out for even baking.
- Bake: Place the dishes in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set.
Notes
- Fresh cornbread works best but you can use store-bought if needed.
- If you prefer a drier dressing, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly.
- Feel free to add cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier version.
- Let the dressing cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
- This recipe serves about 20 people, making it ideal for large family gatherings or holiday meals.
