There’s something magical about the aroma of cornbread stuffing wafting through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace of buttery goodness. Picture this: golden cornbread crumbled into fluffy clouds, mingling with savory herbs and spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. perfect ham for Thanksgiving Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just another Tuesday night, this cornbread stuffing is the perfect companion for any meal, transforming even the simplest dinner into a feast.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about memories and traditions. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she tossed ingredients together like she was casting a spell in her kitchen. The holidays wouldn’t be complete without her signature cornbread stuffing gracing the table, making every bite feel like home. delicious cinnamon rolls complementary pumpkin rolls With every spoonful, you’ll find yourself transported to cozy gatherings filled with laughter and love, making this dish an essential part of any celebration.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cornbread stuffing is incredibly easy to prepare, so you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen
- The flavor profile is rich and savory, with just the right amount of herbs for balance
- Its golden appearance adds visual appeal to any plate, making it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair perfectly with turkey, chicken, or even as a standalone dish
I remember the first time I made this cornbread stuffing for my friends; their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bites. sweet cranberry dessert.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cornbread: You can use store-bought or homemade cornbread; just ensure it is slightly stale for optimal texture.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; choose one that feels firm and heavy.
- Celery: Fresh celery gives a nice crunch; look for crisp stalks with vibrant green leaves.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade adds extra flavor!
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme and sage work wonders here; fresh herbs elevate the flavor beyond dried alternatives.
- Butter: Nothing beats real butter for richness; opt for unsalted to adjust seasoning at your discretion.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Cornbread Base: Start by baking your cornbread according to package instructions or your favorite recipe until golden brown. Let it cool before crumbling into pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add diced onion and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes—releasing delightful aromas. For more inspiration, check out this Sausage and Vegetable Soup recipe.
Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in fresh thyme and sage along with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in chicken broth gradually while stirring until well combined—this will help moisten your bread later.
Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread with sautéed vegetables. Gently fold everything together until evenly mixed but avoid crushing the bread too much.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
Enjoy serving warm alongside your favorite protein or as a hearty side on its own!
You Must Know
- Cornbread stuffing is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for holidays
- The blend of textures, from crunchy bits to soft cornbread, creates a mouthwatering experience
- Plus, it makes the kitchen smell like a cozy farmhouse on Thanksgiving morning!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking your cornbread a day before to let it cool. This will enhance the texture of your cornbread stuffing and allow flavors to meld beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Corn Chicken Soup recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients. Consider adding sausage for a meaty kick or dried cranberries for sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use homemade stock instead of water
- It’s a game changer!
- Don’t skip sautéing your veggies; this adds depth to your stuffing
- Remember to taste as you go; seasoning is key!
I remember the first time I made cornbread stuffing; my grandmother’s recipe transformed my kitchen into a family gathering place, filled with laughter.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought cornbread for stuffing?
Absolutely! Store-bought cornbread can save time and still taste delicious.
What herbs are best for cornbread stuffing?
Thyme, sage, and rosemary work wonderfully together to enhance flavor dramatically.
How long can I store leftovers?
Cornbread stuffing lasts about three days in the fridge when stored properly.
Cornbread Stuffing
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Cornbread stuffing is a delightful and comforting side dish that elevates any meal with its rich, savory flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines fluffy cornbread with fragrant herbs, sautéed vegetables, and a touch of butter, creating a warm and inviting dish perfect for holiday gatherings or casual dinners. Transport yourself to cozy family celebrations with every bite of this aromatic stuffing that pairs beautifully with turkey or chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 cups crumbled cornbread (slightly stale)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- 2 tsp fresh sage (chopped)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornbread Base: Bake cornbread until golden brown; let cool and crumble.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Mix Seasonings: Stir in thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix crumbled cornbread with sautéed vegetables until just combined.
- Bake: Transfer to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (100g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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