**Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing. It’s a must-have dish for any holiday table and will have everyone coming back for seconds!**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 cups crumbled cornbread
– 8 slices day-old white bread, torn into small pieces
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 teaspoons sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, white bread, celery, and onion.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chicken broth, melted butter, eggs, sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the cornbread mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Serving size: 1 cup
– Calories: 250
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 7g
**Popular questions:**
1. How do I make the cornbread for this dressing?
– You can use your favorite cornbread recipe or buy pre-made cornbread to crumble.
2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
– Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth if preferred.
3. Can I add additional seasonings to the mixture?
– Feel free to customize the seasonings to your liking, such as adding garlic powder or thyme.
4. Is it necessary to use day-old bread?
– Using day-old bread helps prevent the dressing from becoming too soggy, but you can use fresh bread if needed.
5. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
6. Can I add meat to this dressing?
– You can include cooked sausage or bacon for added flavor.
7. How long does this dressing last in the fridge?
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
8. Can I freeze this dressing?
– Yes, you can freeze the dressing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
9. How can I reheat the dressing?
– Simply place the dressing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in the oven until warmed through.
10. Can I make this dressing gluten-free?
– Use gluten-free cornbread and bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Add chopped pecans or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
2. Top the dressing with crispy bacon crumbles before serving.
3. Mix in cooked sausage or turkey for a meatier version of the dressing.
4. Drizzle with gravy or cranberry sauce for a delicious finishing touch.
5. Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for variation.
6. Use a combination of cornbread and biscuits for a unique twist.
7. Make the dressing vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the eggs.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
9. Serve the dressing with a side of cranberry sauce or gravy for a complete meal.
10. Double the recipe for large gatherings or leftovers to enjoy later.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Use high-quality cornbread and bread for the best flavor and texture.
2. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes after combining to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Adjust the seasonings to taste before baking for a perfectly seasoned dish.
4. Be generous with the butter for a moist and rich dressing.
5. Bake the dressing until the top is crispy and golden brown for maximum flavor.
6. Include sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added depth of flavor.
7. Brush the top of the dressing with melted butter halfway through baking for a crispy crust.
8. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
9. Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more complex flavor profile.
10. Let the dressing rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set before serving.