Cornbread Dressing

Cornbread Dressing Recipe - Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cornbread dressing is a classic Southern dish that is often served during Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. This savory side dish is made with a combination of cornbread, bread crumbs, chicken broth, celery, onion, and seasonings. It is a delicious and comforting addition to any meal.

History

Cornbread dressing has its roots in Southern cuisine, where cornbread is a staple food. The tradition of making cornbread dressing likely dates back to the early settlers in the South who used cornmeal as a primary ingredient in their cooking. Over time, the recipe evolved to include additional ingredients such as bread crumbs, broth, and seasonings.

Ingredients

3 cups crumbled cornbread
1 cup bread crumbs
2 cups fat-free chicken broth
1 cup celery, finely chopped
0.75 cup onion, finely chopped
2 egg whites
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp pepper
0.5 tsp poultry seasoning (or sage)

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well.
Transfer the mixture into a nonstick baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.
Or until it turns light brown and is set.

Variations

Add cooked sausage or bacon to the dressing for a meatier version.
Include chopped pecans or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Use different types of bread crumbs or cornbread mix for a unique twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to crumble the cornbread and bread crumbs finely to ensure a smooth texture in the dressing.

- Be sure to mix the ingredients well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the dish.

- For a more flavorful dressing, consider adding additional herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

- To make the dish ahead of time, prepare the dressing up to the baking step and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread dressing pairs well with roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. It can also be served alongside green beans, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the cornbread dressing in a nonstick baking dish ensures that it cooks evenly and does not stick to the pan. Be sure to check the dressing periodically while baking to prevent it from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cornbread on hand, you can use store-bought cornbread mix or cornbread muffins. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Cornbread dressing can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cornbread dressing in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. You can also top the dish with a drizzle of gravy or melted butter for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Cornbread dressing pairs well with a variety of main dishes including roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and salads. It also complements traditional holiday sides such as cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, and green bean casserole.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover cornbread dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dressing in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cornbread dressing contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cornbread dressing contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cornbread dressing contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cornbread dressing contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cornbread dressing is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

Cornbread dressing contains wheat and eggs.

Summary

Cornbread dressing is a flavorful side dish that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a good source of carbohydrates and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cornbread dressing is a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for holiday meals and special occasions. With its savory flavors and moist texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for cornbread dressing. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and the binding was worn, but the recipes within were a treasure trove of delicious dishes that had been lovingly prepared for generations.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions for the cornbread dressing, memories of my childhood flooded back to me. I remembered the scent of Thanksgiving dinner wafting through the house, the sound of laughter and chatter as family members gathered around the table, and the taste of that warm, comforting dish that always seemed to steal the show.

I knew I had to try my hand at making the cornbread dressing myself. So, armed with the recipe and a sense of determination, I set to work in the kitchen. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - cornmeal, buttermilk, eggs, and the various herbs and spices that would give the dish its signature flavor.

I mixed and baked the cornbread, letting it cool before crumbling it into a large mixing bowl. Then, I sautéed onions, celery, and garlic in butter until they were soft and fragrant, adding them to the bowl along with chicken broth and beaten eggs. I seasoned the mixture with sage, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper, giving it a final stir before transferring it to a baking dish.

As the cornbread dressing baked in the oven, the familiar smells filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of holidays past. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish, to see if my own version could live up to the one I remembered so fondly.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the golden-brown cornbread dressing from the oven and let it cool slightly before taking a bite. The flavors were just as I remembered - savory, comforting, and utterly delicious. I couldn't help but smile as I savored each mouthful, feeling a connection to my past and a sense of pride in carrying on a tradition that meant so much to me.

As I sat at the table, savoring the last few bites of cornbread dressing, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart. It wasn't just about the taste or the nostalgia - it was about the love and care that went into preparing it, the memories it evoked, and the joy it brought to those who shared it with me.

I made a mental note to pass this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, to ensure that the tradition of cornbread dressing would continue for generations to come. And as I washed the dishes and tidied up the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple yet profound pleasure of cooking for those I loved, and for the recipes that connected us to our past and bound us together in the present.