Mama’s Cornbread Dressing Recipe – A Southern Holiday Classic
Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your holiday feast? Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is a beloved Southern tradition, rich in flavor and packed with comforting ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner, this homemade cornbread dressing delivers savory satisfaction in every bite. Keep reading to discover how to make this timeless recipe just like Mama used to!
Ingredients for Mama’s Cornbread Dressing
To make this classic Southern-style cornbread dressing, you'll need the following:
6 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
2 cups chopped onions
2 cups chopped celery
1/2 cup butter
2–3 cups chicken broth (adjust to desired consistency)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon sage (optional but traditional)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for a lighter texture)
How to Make Mama’s Cornbread Dressing
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your dressing just right:
1. Prepare the Cornbread
If you don’t have leftover cornbread, bake your favorite cornbread recipe and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, crumble it into a large mixing bowl using your hands or a fork.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté them for 7 to 10 minutes, or until tender and fragrant.
3. Mix the Dressing
Pour the cooked vegetables and all the butter into the bowl with crumbled cornbread. Add the lightly beaten eggs, poultry seasoning, sage (if using), salt, pepper, and baking powder. Gradually stir in chicken broth until the mixture becomes very moist but not soupy.
4. Bake the Dressing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the dressing mixture into it. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Expert Tips for the Best Cornbread Dressing
For a richer taste, add chopped cooked chicken or turkey directly into the mix.
Customize the moisture level by adjusting the amount of broth to your preference.
For added flavor, mix in turkey drippings or a spoonful of cream of chicken soup.
Final Thoughts
Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a warm, flavorful memory passed down through generations. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, you can recreate this nostalgic Southern staple in your own kitchen. Whether it’s your first time making dressing or you're a seasoned cook, this recipe promises to bring comfort and joy to your table.