Savory Herbed Cornbread Dressing is the perfect addition to your holiday table or any comforting meal. With a delightful mix of fresh herbs and hearty cornbread, this dish is flavorful and rich, making it a standout side that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The foundation of this dish is, of course, the cornbread, which brings a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that complements the savory elements. The addition of stale white bread ensures a balance of textures, absorbing the flavors without becoming mushy. Butter is key for sautéing, adding richness to the vegetables and enhancing the final dish.
Onion, celery, and garlic form the aromatic base, bringing depth and flavor that spread throughout the dish. Chicken stock keeps it moist and flavorful, while eggs help bind everything together. The triumphant trio of sage, rosemary, and thyme infuse the dressing with an irresistible herby aroma, and fresh parsley adds a bright note to round it all out.
This Savory Herbed Cornbread Dressing pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a great choice for holiday dinners. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green bean salad or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a large baking dish to prevent sticking. This will ensure an easy, stress-free serving later. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they're tender and aromatic, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You'll know they're ready when the onions are translucent, and your kitchen smells amazing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your crumbled cornbread and cubed stale white bread. Pour the sautéed vegetables over this bread mixture and gently stir to combine, making sure the bread absorbs that delicious buttery, herby flavor.
Next, whisk together the chicken stock and eggs in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture over your bread and veggies, ensuring everything is evenly coated and moistened. Add the salt, pepper, and chopped herbs — sage, rosemary, thyme, and parsley — and mix well to distribute the flavors.
Transfer your well-mixed dressing into the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crisp. This final bake gives it that perfect crust that everyone loves.