As the holiday season approaches, many of us are thinking about our favorite Thanksgiving dishes. While turkey and stuffing are always a hit, there’s one dish that often takes center stage: cornbread dressing. Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, this savory side dish is a staple at many family gatherings. But why settle for the same old recipe every year? This Thanksgiving, why not try something new and exciting?
To get started, we’ve gathered 18 of the most delicious cornbread dressing recipes out there. From classic Southern-style dressings to spicy jalapeño-infused twists, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of our favorite cornbread dressing recipes, including…
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe
A staple of traditional Southern holiday meals, this cornbread dressing is a savory blend of crispy cornbread, fragrant herbs, and comforting spices. Serve alongside your favorite roasted meats or as a side dish at your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 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 chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
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
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this bold and flavorful cornbread dressing, infused with the heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeños in melted butter until tender.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Cornbread Dressing
A savory twist on traditional cornbread dressing, this recipe combines the richness of bacon and cheddar with the warmth of cornbread. Perfect for your next holiday gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, cooked bacon, cheddar cheese, scallions, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the 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
Herb-Infused Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and aromatic herb-infused cornbread dressing, perfect for stuffing or serving alongside roasted meats. This recipe combines the warmth of herbs with the crumbly goodness of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, parsley, thyme, scallions, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pour in melted butter and mix until the mixture is evenly moistened.
4. Add chicken broth and mix until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Sage Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your Thanksgiving turkey with this savory and aromatic cornbread dressing, infused with the flavors of sausage and sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cornbread crumbs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped sage leaves.
5. In a large bowl, combine cornbread crumbs, sausage mixture, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour dressing into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Corn and Cranberry Cornbread Dressing
Add a burst of flavor to your holiday table with this unique cornbread dressing that combines the sweetness of fresh corn and cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 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 crumbled cornbread in melted butter until lightly toasted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, and poultry seasoning.
4. Add the thawed sweet corn and chopped cranberries to the wet ingredients; stir to combine.
5. Pour the mixture over the toasted cornbread and toss until well coated.
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
Smoky Chipotle Cornbread Dressing
Add a smoky twist to your holiday table with this flavorful cornbread dressing recipe. Perfect for accompanying roasted turkey or chicken, this dish is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, melted butter, cooked onion mixture, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory cornbread dressing, infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and mushrooms in butter until tender.
3. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and mushroom mixture.
5. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and Pecan Cornbread Dressing
This sweet and savory cornbread dressing combines the warmth of fall spices with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of apples. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup dried apples, chopped
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 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 pecans, apples, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked mixture, and melted butter. Mix well.
5. Add the chicken broth and mix until the dressing is moist but not soggy.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion Cornbread Dressing
This savory dressing combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and cornbread with a hint of herbs, creating a perfect accompaniment to your favorite roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the crumbled cornbread, cooked onions, butter, chicken broth, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory and aromatic cornbread dressing, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 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 until translucent.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked onion mixture and grated cheddar cheese to the cornbread mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Bourbon Cornbread Dressing
This cornbread dressing takes the classic Southern staple to new heights by adding a hint of maple syrup and a splash of bourbon. The result is a sweet, savory, and slightly boozy side dish that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 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 until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chicken broth, maple syrup, bourbon, and sautéed onion mixture.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to taste.
6. 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
Turkey and Herb Cornbread Dressing
This moist and flavorful dressing combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of turkey and fresh herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, sage, and thyme)
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 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 chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chopped herbs, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory cornbread dressing infused with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for turkey, roast beef, or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see note), minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine cornbread, broth, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is lightly toasted and fragrant (about 10 minutes).
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the dressing is golden brown.
4. Remove from the oven and stir in sage, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
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 30-40 minutes or until the cloves are tender and mashed. Let cool before using.
Green Chile and Cornbread Dressing
A flavorful twist on traditional dressing, this recipe combines the warmth of green chile peppers with the comfort of cornbread. Perfect for accompanying your favorite roasted meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup chopped green chile peppers (mild or hot to taste)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, chopped cilantro, and green chile peppers.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well coated.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary and Lemon Cornbread Dressing
Add a bright and savory twist to your holiday meals with this fragrant Rosemary and Lemon Cornbread Dressing. The combination of fresh rosemary, citrusy lemon zest, and crumbly cornbread creates a unique and delicious side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 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 in melted butter until softened.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, chopped rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cornbread Dressing
Add a burst of flavor to your holiday meals with this savory cornbread dressing infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked mixture with the cubed cornbread.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the dressing is moistened.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun-Style Cornbread Dressing
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this Cajun-style cornbread dressing! This recipe combines traditional cornbread ingredients with spicy and savory elements, perfect for accompanying your favorite holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cornbread crumbs, melted butter, scallions, celery, red bell pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for Thanksgiving with these 18 savory cornbread dressing recipes! From classic Southern flavors to spicy and smoky twists, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some heat with Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing or go green with Green Chile and Cornbread Dressing. For a sweet and tangy treat, try Sweet Corn and Cranberry Cornbread Dressing. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or something new and adventurous, these recipes are sure to please your Thanksgiving guests.
