This comprehensive guide reveals the secrets to crafting the most flavorful and satisfying Cornbread Stuffing recipe, a quintessential side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive winter gathering. By expertly blending the robust texture of cornbread with the airy chewiness of French bread, this recipe guarantees a stuffing that is incredibly moist, rich in flavor, and delightfully chewy – a true culinary masterpiece.
If you’re seeking additional inspiring stuffing creations, delve into these other cherished recipes: our beloved Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, the convenient and delectable Slow Cooker Stuffing, or the savory and sweet combination of this Sausage and Apple Stuffing.
The Ultimate Easy Cornbread Stuffing Recipe for Your Holiday Table
Prepare to fall in love with this unforgettable Easy Cornbread Stuffing recipe, a dish that pays homage to timeless traditions while delivering unparalleled flavor and texture. Drawing inspiration from our cherished Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing, this version masterfully combines the distinct characteristics of classic white bread and rich cornbread. The result is a stuffing that achieves the perfect balance: wonderfully moist on the inside, beautifully fluffy, and crowned with an irresistible golden-brown crust. This is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of comfort food, thoughtfully prepared to enhance your holiday feasts and create lasting memories.
Our easy cornbread stuffing recipe is generously loaded with vibrant fresh herbs, crisp celery, aromatic onions, and an abundance of perfectly sized bread and homemade cornbread cubes. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss approach to a holiday classic, focusing on wholesome ingredients and simple techniques to deliver pure, unadulterated deliciousness. There’s no need for complicated steps or exotic components; just honest-to-goodness comfort food executed to perfection.
The foundation of any great stuffing lies in its bread. For this recipe, you have the flexibility to choose: bake your own cornbread from scratch, opt for a convenient box mix, or even purchase pre-made cornbread from your local bakery or grocery store. Regardless of its origin, the crucial step is to ensure that both your cornbread and regular bread are thoroughly dried out beforehand. This vital process prevents the stuffing from becoming soggy and allows it to absorb all the rich, savory flavors of the broth and seasonings, resulting in that ideal moist-yet-firm texture. We’ll guide you through the simple steps for properly drying your bread below, ensuring your stuffing is a resounding success.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Cornbread Stuffing
Crafting a truly exceptional cornbread stuffing starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial to the success of this beloved recipe:
- Dried Bread Cubes: The cornerstone of any stuffing. You can easily prepare your own dried bread cubes at home (we’ll show you how!), or conveniently purchase them from the deli or bakery section of your local grocery store. For optimal texture, aim for cubes roughly ½” – ¾” in size. Our top recommendations for regular bread include hearty French bread, tangy sourdough, or any other fresh, dense bakery loaves. Avoid soft sandwich bread, as it tends to get mushy.
- Dried Cornbread: This is where the “cornbread” in cornbread stuffing comes from! Just like with regular bread, drying is key. You can prepare your own Homemade Cornbread, pick up a pan from the store, or even use a quality boxed cornbread mix (like Jiffy cornbread dressing for a great taste). For the best results and to facilitate drying, try to bake or purchase your cornbread at least a day or two in advance.
- Onion: A fundamental aromatic that adds depth and sweetness. Both white or yellow onions work beautifully in this recipe, providing a pungent base that mellows and sweetens as it cooks.
- Celery: Contributes a classic, fresh, and slightly peppery crunch. Use the entire stalk, ensuring you cut it into uniform ½” pieces for even cooking and distribution throughout the stuffing.
- Poultry Seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs and spices specifically designed to complement poultry, which works perfectly for stuffing. You’ll find this essential spice blend readily available in the spice aisle of any grocery store. It typically includes sage, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile significantly. This recipe specifically calls for thyme, sage, and rosemary, or a delightful combination of these. While fresh herbs offer the most vibrant taste, dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use about ⅓ the amount of fresh).
- Eggs: The crucial binder that holds the stuffing together, preventing it from crumbling. Eggs create a cohesive texture, ensuring each scoop is moist and integrated.
- Chicken Stock (or Vegetable Stock): The liquid component that moistens the bread and infuses the stuffing with savory flavor. You can buy quality stock in cartons or make your own for an even richer taste. For a vegetarian option, simply substitute with vegetable stock. The exact amount needed will vary depending on the density and dryness of your bread, so be prepared to adjust.
- Butter: Essential for sautéing the aromatics and adding a rich, luxurious flavor and moisture to the stuffing. Using real butter makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors in the stuffing. Adjust to your personal preference.
- Fresh Parsley: Used as a garnish, adding a burst of freshness, color, and a subtle herbaceous note just before serving.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting the Perfect Cornbread Stuffing
Creating this delightful cornbread stuffing is a straightforward process when you follow these simple steps. Each stage is designed to build flavor and ensure the ideal texture for your holiday side dish.
- Prepare and Dry Your Bread: This initial step is non-negotiable for a stuffing that isn’t soggy. Ensure both your cornbread and regular bread are cut into uniform cubes. For detailed instructions on how to achieve perfectly dried bread cubes at home, refer to the “Drying Cornbread for Stuffing” section below. Once thoroughly dried, allow the bread cubes to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding. This cooling process is crucial for preventing condensation and maintaining their crispness.
- Sauté Aromatics and Create the Dressing Mixture: Begin by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering, add the diced onions and celery. Cook these aromatics, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until they soften and become translucent, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes. The goal is to release their sweet flavors without browning them too much. Next, stir in the poultry seasoning, fresh thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour in 2 cups of the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Remove the skillet from the heat, then quickly whisk in the eggs until they are fully incorporated into the warm broth mixture. This method gently tempers the eggs, ensuring they blend smoothly without scrambling.
- Combine Bread and Flavorful Liquid: Transfer all your prepared, dry cubed bread and cornbread into a very large mixing bowl. Pour the entire warm chicken broth and aromatic celery mixture evenly over the top of the bread cubes. Using a large spoon or your clean hands, gently fold and toss the ingredients together. The key here is gentle handling to avoid crushing the bread cubes. Continue folding until all the bread is uniformly moistened. The stuffing should appear moist but without any standing liquid at the bottom of the bowl. If the mixture seems too dry or still has unmoistened bread, gradually add up to 2 additional cups of chicken broth, one half-cup at a time, folding between additions until the desired consistency is reached.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Generously spray a 9″ x 13″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring all surfaces are lightly coated to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the moist stuffing mixture into the prepared dish. Place the pan in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, gently stirring the stuffing every 15-20 minutes. Stirring helps promote even browning and ensures all parts of the stuffing get deliciously crispy edges. The stuffing is ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Savor: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the warm stuffing. The vibrant green parsley adds a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful visual contrast. Serve warm and enjoy this incredibly delicious and comforting side dish!
The Essential Step: Perfectly Drying Bread and Cornbread for Stuffing
The secret to a robust, flavorful, and moist-not-soggy stuffing lies in properly dried bread. This simple process allows the bread to absorb all the delicious liquid and flavors without breaking down into a mushy consistency. Here’s how to do it:
- Uniform Cubes are Key: Using a sharp serrated bread knife, carefully cut both your regular bread (French, sourdough, etc.) and cornbread into even cubes, aiming for pieces approximately 1/2″ to 3/4″ in size. Consistency in size ensures they dry evenly. Arrange the bread and cornbread cubes in a single layer on one or more large baking sheets. Avoid overcrowding, as this can hinder air circulation and lead to uneven drying.
- Low and Slow Baking Method: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, specifically 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius). Place the baking sheets with the bread cubes into the preheated oven. Bake for about an hour, gently tossing the cubes every 15-20 minutes. This periodic tossing ensures all sides of the bread are exposed to the heat, promoting thorough and even drying. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel firm and dry to the touch, with a slight crispness, but are not toasted or browned.
- Cool Completely for Optimal Results: Once dried, remove the baking sheets from the oven and set them aside to cool completely. Allowing the cubes to cool fully prevents any residual moisture from being trapped, which could lead to softening. If you plan to make these dried bread cubes ahead of time, ensure they are absolutely cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to 1 week, ready to be transformed into your delicious stuffing.
Exciting Recipe Variations to Personalize Your Stuffing
While our classic cornbread stuffing is perfect as is, it also serves as an excellent canvas for creative culinary experimentation. Feel free to adapt this recipe with these delicious variations to suit your taste and impress your guests:
- Sweet and Tangy Additions: For a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, mix in a generous handful of dried cranberries and toasted pecans or walnuts. The cranberries add a burst of tartness and chewiness, while the nuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.
- Earthy Mushroom Medley: Elevate your stuffing with an umami-rich blend of wild mushrooms. Sauté a mix of shiitake, oyster, and cremini mushrooms until tender and lightly browned, then gently fold them into your cornbread stuffing mixture. Their earthy notes will add a sophisticated layer of flavor.
- Spicy Cajun Kick: Introduce a vibrant Cajun twist by adding slices of cooked Andouille sausage to your stuffing. The smoky, spicy sausage will infuse the entire dish with bold, zesty flavors, making it a memorable addition to your spread.
- Southwestern Fiesta: Infuse your stuffing with the lively flavors of the Southwest. Incorporate cooked black beans, sweet corn kernels, diced green chilies, and a sprinkle of chili powder or cumin. This variation adds color, texture, and a pleasant warmth.
- Maple Bacon Indulgence: For a savory-sweet treat, crumble crispy bacon bits throughout the stuffing and drizzle a touch of pure maple syrup over the top before baking. The combination of salty bacon and sweet maple creates an incredibly addictive flavor profile.
- Hearty Vegetarian Option: Easily create a delicious vegetarian stuffing by simply substituting chicken broth with high-quality vegetable broth. Ensure all other ingredients remain plant-based for a truly meat-free dish.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: To accommodate dietary needs, replace both the regular French bread and the cornbread with your favorite gluten-free bread and gluten-free cornbread. Ensure all other ingredients, such as broth, are also certified gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornbread Stuffing
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this classic holiday side dish:
For the best texture and absorption, your cornbread cubes should feel dry to the touch, rather than moist. If the bread is too fresh or wet, it won’t properly absorb the savory liquid mixture, leading to a dense, potentially gummy, or even dry-tasting baked stuffing – which is definitely not what we want! It’s highly recommended to make or purchase your cornbread at least two to three days in advance to allow it to naturally stale, or you can expedite the drying process in a low oven as described in our instructions.
The terms “dressing” and “stuffing” are often used interchangeably, and for home cooks, they essentially refer to the same delicious bread-based side dish. Technically, “stuffing” traditionally referred to the bread mixture cooked inside the cavity of a turkey or other poultry, absorbing juices from the bird. “Dressing,” on the other hand, was the term for a similar mixture baked in a separate pan. However, modern culinary practice and food safety recommendations often lean towards baking stuffing in a separate pan to ensure even cooking and minimize potential bacterial risks. Ultimately, you’ll likely refer to this popular side dish by whatever name your family traditionally uses or what the recipe you’re following calls it, as both terms evoke the same comforting holiday classic.
Absolutely! Stuffing freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy holiday seasons or for enjoying leftovers much later. To freeze, ensure your stuffing has cooled completely after baking. Wrap it very well with a double layer of aluminum foil, followed by a layer of plastic wrap, to prevent freezer burn. Store frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the frozen stuffing to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. It can then be reheated in the microwave for individual servings or in a 350-degree Fahrenheit (175°C) oven until thoroughly warmed through.
This particular recipe champions a wonderful blend of equal parts cornbread and regular bread for a truly unique and balanced texture. For the regular bread component, our favorites are those with a sturdy crumb that can hold up well to the moisture without disintegrating. Excellent choices include robust sourdough, crusty French bread, or any type of fresh, artisanal bakery or homemade loaves. These breads provide a satisfying chewiness and structure. It’s best to avoid using soft, pre-sliced sandwich bread, as it tends to contain a lot of moisture and can easily turn mushy, resulting in a less desirable stuffing texture.
Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Cornbread Stuffing
Proper storage and reheating ensure your cornbread stuffing remains delicious long after the holiday meal. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerator Storage: After your stuffing has completely cooled to room temperature, either cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors for nearly a week.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: This stuffing is an ideal make-ahead dish, perfect for alleviating holiday stress. You can fully prepare the cornbread stuffing mixture (up to the point of baking it) a day or two in advance. Instead of baking, place the unbaked mixture into a large gallon-sized zip-lock bag or an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. On the day of serving, simply spread it into your prepared baking dish and bake as directed. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for best results.
- Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, any baked leftovers can be wrapped securely. First, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, followed by another layer of plastic wrap, to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen stuffing to the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: Individual portions can be quickly reheated in the microwave until warm. For larger quantities or to restore a slightly crispy exterior, reheat the stuffing in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes if you prefer a crispier top.
★★★★★
Best Cornbread Stuffing Recipe
The Carefree Kitchen
This savory cornbread stuffing recipe is a perfect side dish to serve for Thanksgiving or any other winter holidays. It combines both cornbread and French bread to make the most chewy, moist, flavorful, and delicious stuffing.
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1 hr
20 mins
1 hr
2 hrs
20 mins
20
people
Ingredients
Bread for Stuffing
- 8 cups bread, cubed (about 3 large loaves of bread)
- 8 cups cornbread, cubed (one recipe of Homemade Cornbread or store bought)
Ingredients for Stuffing
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups onion, 1/2″ dice
- 2 cups celery, 1/2″ dice
- 3 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme, fresh chopped
- 1 teaspoon sage, fresh chopped
- 1 teaspoon rosemary, fresh chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 3-4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon parsley, fresh chopped
Instructions
Homemade Breadcrumbs
- Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120°C).
- Using a serrated bread knife, cut the bread and cornbread into roughly 1/2″ to 3/4″ cubed pieces and lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in a 250-degree oven for about an hour, tossing them a few times to make sure they dry all the way through. Remove from the oven and set aside while you prepare the rest of the stuffing.
Making Cornbread Stuffing
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the butter and melt. Add onion and celery and cook, stirring frequently, until tender and translucent—about 8 minutes.
- Add the poultry seasoning, thyme, sage, rosemary, salt, and black pepper, then stir in 2 cups of the chicken broth. Next, add the eggs and whisk until combined.
- Put the dry cubed bread and cornbread into a large bowl and pour the chicken broth and celery mixture over the top of the bread. Gently fold the ingredients together—it should be moist but there should be no standing liquid. If it seems dry, add up to 2 more cups of chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, until the desired moisture is reached.
- Spray a 9″ x 13″ baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and spread the stuffing evenly into the prepared dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring gently every 15-20 minutes. The top should be lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and top with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy!
Notes
Storing leftovers: Cover with plastic wrap, or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Make-ahead tips: This stuffing can be prepared the day before, covered, and stored overnight in the fridge. The next day, pull the baking dish out to room temperature while you preheat the oven and then bake as directed.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or a preheated 350-degree F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Nutrition
Calories: 631kcal | Carbohydrates: 99g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 1430mg | Potassium: 328mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 402IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 264mg | Iron: 5mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Side Dish
American
Discover More Delectable Thanksgiving and Holiday Recipes
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- Nutty Thanksgiving Wild Rice: A hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional sides.
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- Explore even More of the Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes to complete your holiday spread.
- Browse our full collection of Delicious Side Dishes for year-round inspiration.
This is truly the Best Cornbread Stuffing Recipe you’ll ever make, expertly crafted by building upon the beloved foundation of our Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing. Whether you choose to bake your cornbread from scratch or opt for a convenient store-bought option, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with this incredibly easy, flavorful, and perfectly textured classic side dish. It’s destined to become a staple at your holiday table for years to come!