1. Bake the Cornbread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

Transfer the batter to a greased baking dish or skillet and bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cornbread to cool completely.

2. Crumble the Cornbread

Once cooled, break the cornbread into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.

For the best dressing texture, the cornbread can be prepared a day ahead and allowed to dry slightly before assembling the dressing. Day-old cornbread absorbs the broth beautifully without becoming overly mushy.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and celery.

Cook for about 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and translucent.

This simple step creates much of the savory flavor that makes Southern dressing so comforting.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked onion and celery to the crumbled cornbread.

Sprinkle in the sage, thyme, black pepper, parsley, and a little salt.

Pour in about 2 cups of chicken broth and gently mix.

Add the beaten eggs and continue stirring.

5. Adjust the Moisture

Slowly add more chicken broth while mixing.

The mixture should be very moist but not watery. It should resemble a thick, soft batter rather than a soup.

This is one of the most important steps. Different cornbreads absorb different amounts of liquid, so add the broth gradually instead of pouring it all in at once.

6. Transfer to the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

Spread the dressing mixture evenly into the dish.

Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.

For an especially golden top, you can dot a little extra butter over the surface before baking.

7. Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake uncovered for approximately 45–50 minutes, or until the dressing is set in the center and the top is beautifully golden brown.

If you prefer a softer, more moist dressing, avoid overbaking it.

8. Rest Before Serving

Remove the dressing from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

This gives the center time to settle while keeping the texture moist and tender.

Tips for the Best Cornbread Dressing

Continue reading on the next page →