Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake: A Cozy Delight

The aroma of warm spices wafts through the air, mingling with the rich, nutty scent of brown butter, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons you to the kitchen. Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that dance together in perfect harmony, offering an irresistible experience for your taste buds.

Picture this: a golden-brown crust giving way to soft, fluffy cornbread infused with the savory goodness of herbs and spices. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this stuffing bake promises to elevate any occasion into a feast. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.

I remember the first time I made Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake for my family; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took that first bite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: For browning; use high-quality butter for better flavor and richness.

• Cornbread: You can use homemade or store-bought cornbread; just ensure it’s fresh for the best texture.

• Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness; sauté until translucent to bring out its natural sugars.

• Celery: Adds crunch and freshness; opt for crisp stalks for maximum texture.

• Fresh Herbs (Sage and Thyme): Use fresh herbs when possible for vibrant flavor; they’re essential for that holiday aroma.

• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture; low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness better.

• Pecans or Walnuts: Chopped nuts add crunch and depth; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.

• Dried Cranberries (optional): For a pop of sweetness; they contrast beautifully with the savory elements in the stuffing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will ensure nothing sticks and makes cleanup easier.

Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Stir continuously to avoid burning.

Sauté the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and celery to the browned butter and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. The fragrant aroma will fill your kitchen like a warm hug.

Mix the Cornbread: In a large bowl, crumble your cornbread into small pieces. Pour in the sautéed mixture along with chicken broth, fresh herbs, chopped nuts, and dried cranberries if using. Stir gently until combined but avoid overmixing.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly while allowing some height for crusty edges.

Bake Until Golden: Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells heavenly!

This Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake is not just food; it’s comfort on a plate that brings everyone together around the table. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the butter until it’s fragrant; then mix in cornbread cubes, broth, and seasonings for an even bake.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding cooked sausage or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also swap out cornbread for whole wheat bread if desired.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

The first time I whipped up this Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake, my family devoured every last crumb! Their joyful faces made every minute worth it.

FAQ

What type of cornbread is best for stuffing?

Use day-old cornbread for optimal texture and flavor absorption during baking.

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and bake before serving for convenience.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, substitute regular cornbread with gluten-free cornbread to make it gluten-free friendly.

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Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake

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Indulge in the comforting flavors of Brown Butter Cornbread Stuffing Bake, a delightful dish that combines the nutty richness of browned butter with fluffy cornbread and savory herbs. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this stuffing bake is visually appealing and bursting with flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups cornbread, crumbled (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (toasted)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until golden brown and nutty in aroma.
3. Sauté the onion and celery in the browned butter until softened (~5 minutes).
4. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, herbs, nuts, and cranberries. Gently mix until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider adding cooked sausage or mushrooms. Day-old cornbread works best for texture; it absorbs flavors without becoming mushy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days; reheat at 350°F until warmed through.