Cornbread stuffing is like a warm hug for your stomach; it envelops you in a cozy embrace of buttery cornbread, savory herbs, and just the right amount of sage. The moment you take a whiff of that golden-brown goodness baking in the oven, your taste buds start doing a happy dance, anticipating the feast ahead. Imagine the crispy edges with soft, pillowy insides, all mingling together to create the ultimate comfort food experience.

Every Thanksgiving at my grandma’s house was an event to behold. The kitchen would be filled with laughter and delightful aromas as we gathered around to help her whip up this cornbread stuffing. It became our family tradition, and I can still hear her teasingly say that she never measured anything—just love and intuition went into every bite. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual Sunday meal, this dish effortlessly brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cornbread stuffing recipe combines easy preparation with rich flavor that will impress anyone at your table
- You can easily adapt it to suit seasonal ingredients or dietary preferences without losing its charm
- Its beautiful golden hue adds visual appeal to any holiday spread
- Enjoy it as a side dish or use it to elevate your main course!
Sharing this stuffing recipe always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over who got the last scoop from the serving bowl.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cornbread: You can use store-bought or homemade; just make sure it’s nice and crumbly for the best texture.
Celery: Opt for fresh celery stalks to add crunchiness and flavor depth.
Onion: Yellow or sweet onions work wonders here; they enhance sweetness as they caramelize.
Sage: Fresh sage delivers an earthy aroma that makes this stuffing unforgettable.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning.
Butter: A generous amount ensures richness and moisture throughout the dish.
Pecans (optional): Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cornbread Stuffing
Prepare the Cornbread: If you’re making cornbread from scratch, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix cornmeal, flour, milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth; bake until golden brown.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced onions and celery until tender and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes will do.
Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in chopped sage along with salt and pepper for flavor. Pour in chicken broth gradually while mixing well to combine everything smoothly.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer crumbled cornbread into a large bowl. Fold in sautéed veggies gently along with any optional pecans for added crunch.
Bake the Stuffing: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while transferring the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until top is crispy and golden.
Enjoy every bite of this comforting cornbread stuffing—a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to steal the show at any meal!
You Must Know
- Cornbread stuffing is the ultimate comfort food, combining sweetness and savoriness
- Its delightful texture complements turkey perfectly
- Aromatic herbs elevate the dish, making it a festive favorite that everyone will love
- Don’t miss out on this classic during the holiday season!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by toasting cornbread until golden brown, then sauté onions and celery until soft. Combine everything in a bowl with broth and spices for even flavor distribution.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cornbread with gluten-free options or add pecans for crunch. Dried cranberries can also introduce a sweet twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old cornbread for better absorption of flavors while avoiding sogginess
- Always taste your stuffing before baking to adjust seasoning as needed
- A splash of apple cider vinegar can brighten up the overall flavor profile beautifully
Creating cornbread stuffing brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone’s plates overflowed with deliciousness.
FAQ
Can I make cornbread stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day prior and bake just before serving for best results.
What type of bread should I use?
Use homemade or store-bought cornbread for authentic flavor and texture.
How do I prevent my stuffing from being too dry?
Ensure you add enough broth or melted butter for moisture throughout the dish.
Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With its buttery cornbread base, fragrant herbs, and a hint of sage, this dish is perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy family dinners. The crispy edges and soft interior create an irresistible texture that everyone will love. Bring a taste of tradition to your table with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups crumbled cornbread (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if making cornbread from scratch; otherwise, skip to step 2.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced onions and celery until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Gradually add chicken broth while mixing well.
- In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread with the sautéed mixture and optional pecans; mix gently.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, use day-old cornbread to absorb the broth better. - Feel free to substitute gluten-free cornbread or add dried cranberries for a sweet twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.