Mama’s Classic Cornbread Dressing

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Base

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and celery; cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and let the vegetables cool slightly.

Step 3: Build the Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and crumbled white bread.
2. Stir in the sautéed onion and celery, making sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
3. Sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Taste the dry mixture and adjust seasoning if needed—remember, the broth will dilute the flavors slightly, so season generously.

Step 4: Add Moisture

1. Gradually pour in chicken or turkey broth, starting with 2½ cups. Stir gently until the bread mixture is evenly moistened.
2. The mixture should be soft but not soupy—if it feels too dry, add more broth a little at a time.
3. Mix in the beaten eggs, which help bind everything together.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the dressing mixture evenly inside.
3. Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp while the inside remains tender and moist.

Tips from Mama’s Kitchen

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it on the day of serving.
• For Extra Flavor: Add cooked, shredded chicken or turkey into the mix for a hearty one-dish meal.
• Texture Control: For a creamier dressing, add a little extra broth and bake covered for part of the time. For more crunch, bake uncovered the entire time.
• The Sage Rule: Sage can be strong—add it gradually and taste as you go.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mama’s Classic Cornbread Dressing alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or even fried chicken. A ladle of rich turkey gravy or a spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce makes each bite even better.

This is the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds—not just for the taste, but for the comfort it brings. Every forkful is a reminder of home, tradition, and the simple joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.

If you’d like, I can also give you a shorter, punchier version of this recipe for quick reference, so you have both the storytelling article and a one-page recipe card. That way, you can keep the long version for the holiday cookbook and the short one for everyday use.