When it comes to traditional holiday meals, few side dishes evoke a sense of warmth and comfort like a warm, crumbly cornbread dressing. This beloved staple of Southern cuisine has been a cornerstone of family gatherings and special occasions for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 classic old fashioned Southern cornbread dressing recipes.
From traditional combinations like sage and sausage to more unexpected twists featuring ingredients like pecans and cranberries, these recipes offer a wealth of inspiration for your next holiday meal. Whether you’re serving up turkey, chicken, or ham, we’ve got the perfect cornbread dressing recipe to complement your main course.
Traditional Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sage
This classic cornbread dressing recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own. The addition of sage adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried sage to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Sausage
This classic Southern-inspired dressing is a staple at many holiday tables, and for good reason. The combination of savory sausage, buttery cornbread, and aromatic herbs creates a rich, comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled sausage, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the crumbled cornbread until well combined with the sausage mixture.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Style Cornbread Dressing with Celery and Onions
This classic Southern side dish is a staple at holiday gatherings and family meals. Moist cornbread, crispy celery, and sweet onions come together to create a flavorful dressing that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked celery mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well until the dressing is evenly coated with the seasonings.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grandma’s Classic Cornbread Dressing Recipe
This recipe is a comforting staple that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and all the fixings on Thanksgiving (or any other special occasion). With its moist texture and sweet, corn flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Turkey Gravy
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing with Turkey Gravy Recipe
A warm, comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or chicken, this Southern-style cornbread dressing is a staple of the holiday season. With its crumbly texture and savory flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup turkey drippings (or vegetable oil)
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, celery, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and turkey drippings (or oil). Mix until dressing is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Chicken Broth
This classic Southern-style dressing is a staple at many holiday tables. Its crispy, buttery crust and soft, savory center make it the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Pecans and Cranberries
A classic Southern side dish gets a delightful twist with the addition of crunchy pecans and tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, pecans, and cranberries.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Add flour, salt, and pepper to taste, then mix until just combined.
6. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on the classic cornbread dressing, this recipe adds a pop of color and sweetness from bell peppers. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the bell pepper and cook until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, cooked vegetable mixture, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
6. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Cornbread Dressing with Apples
A classic Southern twist on traditional stuffing, this cornbread dressing adds the sweetness of apples and a hint of spice to create a deliciously savory side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, diced apple, poultry seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss until well combined.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Herbs
A classic Southern side dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of aromatic herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite roasted meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, parsley, thyme, and sage.
3. Add salt and pepper; mix well.
4. Pour in melted butter; stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
5. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Bacon and Leeks
This classic Southern dressing gets a boost from the rich flavors of crispy bacon and sweet, caramelized leeks. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked bacon, and leek mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and melted butter; mix until just combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Mushrooms
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Mushrooms: A savory side dish that combines the warmth of cornbread with the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms, perfect for your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, mushroom mixture, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer dressing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Cornbread Dressing with Collard Greens
This traditional Southern side dish combines the warmth of cornbread with the earthy flavor of collard greens, perfect for accompanying your favorite roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs
– 2 cups chopped collard greens (cooked and drained)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread crumbs, collard greens, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in melted butter, salt, and black pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or 9×13-inch pan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Buttermilk
Classic Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Buttermilk: A hearty, comforting side dish perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the tanginess of buttermilk, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, buttermilk, melted butter, sautéed onion mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Pour the dressing into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Corn Kernels
Get ready to elevate your holiday meal with this classic Southern-style cornbread dressing, packed with sweet corn kernels and a hint of savory goodness. This recipe is perfect for turkey day or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, corn kernels, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Smoked Paprika
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Smoked Paprika Recipe
Summary: This savory cornbread dressing is a twist on the traditional Southern classic, adding smoky depth from smoked paprika. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine melted butter, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add crumbled cornbread and stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and lightly toasted on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Cornbread Dressing with Ham
This classic Southern recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavor of ham to create a delicious side dish perfect for holidays and special occasions. With its moist texture and rich flavor, this dressing is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked ham (such as prosciutto or country ham)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chopped ham, melted butter, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing with Roasted Garlic
Add a rich, savory twist to your holiday turkey or chicken with this classic cornbread dressing infused with the deep flavor of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves roasted garlic (see note), minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and melted butter until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the roasted garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed mixture, and chicken broth. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the top off of a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender. Let cool before using.
Summary
Get ready to taste the Southern comfort that only cornbread dressing can bring! In this article, we’re sharing 18 classic and delicious recipes for old-fashioned Southern-style cornbread dressings. From traditional recipes with sage and sausage to creative twists with celery, onions, pecans, and more, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a Southern native or just looking to add some regional flair to your holiday meals, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get cozy, and indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of cornbread dressing!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
