Get ready to experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of the South with these 18 flavorful African American cornbread dressing recipes. Whether you’re a native Southerner or just a fan of comfort food, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic Southern staples like sage and bacon to bold twists like jalapeño and smoked turkey, each recipe has its own unique charm and character. And with ingredients like collard greens, sweet potatoes, and andouille sausage, you’ll feel like you’re sitting down to a holiday feast at your favorite aunt’s house.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the South, highlighting the most beloved cornbread dressing recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. So grab a glass of sweet tea and settle in – it’s time to get cozy with some good ol’ fashioned comfort food!
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sage
This traditional Southern-style cornbread dressing is a staple at many holiday gatherings. Made with crispy cornbread, savory sage, and a hint of onion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– 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 (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chopped sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. 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
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing
Add a kick to your holiday meal with this flavorful cornbread dressing infused with spicy jalapeños! This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the heat of jalapeños, creating a unique and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery and scallions in butter until tender.
3. Add the chopped jalapeño and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the cooked celery mixture to the cornbread mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cornbread Dressing
This hearty dressing combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the warmth of cornbread and a hint of spices, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound cooked smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon sage
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, smoked turkey, poultry seasoning, sage, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. 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
Sweet Potato and Cornbread Dressing
This savory dressing combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crumbly goodness of cornbread, perfect for stuffing into turkey or serving alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked sweet potatoes, cornbread crumbs, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun-Style Cornbread Dressing with Andouille Sausage
Get ready to spice up your holiday table with this bold and flavorful Cajun-style cornbread dressing, featuring the savory goodness of Andouille sausage. This Southern twist on traditional bread dressing is perfect for turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add Andouille sausage; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until bread is evenly moistened.
4. Add the cooked sausage mixture to the cornbread mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour dressing into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Collard Greens and Cornbread Dressing
This classic Southern side dish combines the earthy flavor of collard greens with the warmth of cornbread, perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs (from a store-bought or homemade recipe)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cornbread crumbs and chopped parsley.
5. Add the cornbread mixture to the skillet with the collard greens and stir until well combined.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dressing has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Cornbread Dressing with Bacon and Onions
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory cornbread dressing infused with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a hint of herbs. This recipe is perfect for stuffing or serving alongside your favorite roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, caramelized
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the caramelized onions and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked bacon, onion mixture, garlic, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the dressing is evenly moistened.
6. Transfer the dressing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Infused Cornbread Dressing with Thyme and Rosemary
Add a fragrant twist to your holiday dinner with this savory cornbread dressing infused with the aromas of thyme and rosemary. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup turkey drippings (or vegetable oil)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, thyme, rosemary, chicken broth, and turkey drippings (or oil). Mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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
Creamy Cornbread Dressing with Mushrooms
Elevate your holiday meals with this rich and flavorful cornbread dressing infused with sautéed mushrooms. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a savory side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and mushrooms in butter until softened.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, sautéed mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Cranberries and Pecans
Elevate your holiday meals with this sweet and savory Southern-style cornbread dressing, infused with the flavors of cranberries and pecans. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the tanginess of cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 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 cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, parsley, red bell pepper, and pecans until the mixture is lightly toasted.
3. Stir in cranberries, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Cornbread Dressing with Cheddar and Jalapeños
This recipe adds a bold kick to the traditional cornbread dressing, thanks to the addition of sharp cheddar and spicy jalapeños. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeños until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, grated cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, cooked onion mixture, and poultry seasoning.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Cornbread Dressing with Nutmeg and Cinnamon
This sweet and savory cornbread dressing is infused with the warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon, making it a perfect addition to your holiday meals. With its moist texture and flavorful spices, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery in butter until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is well combined.
5. 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
Vegan Cornbread Dressing with Celery and Carrots
Vegan Cornbread Dressing with Celery and Carrots: A savory side dish that combines the warmth of cornbread with the freshness of celery and carrots, perfect for your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale vegan cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (or vegetable broth concentrate)
– 1/4 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, celery, and carrots in melted vegan butter or margarine until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Smoked Ham and Bell Peppers
A savory twist on traditional cornbread dressing, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of smoked ham and bell peppers for a delicious side dish perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped smoked ham
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 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 onion and bell peppers until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, smoked ham, cooked vegetables, and seasonings. Toss until well combined.
4. Pour in chicken broth and toss until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Cornbread Dressing with Chicken Broth
Elevate your holiday table with this classic Southern-style cornbread dressing infused with the savory flavor of chicken broth. This recipe is a staple for many family gatherings, and its warm, comforting aroma will fill your home with festive cheer.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed onion mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is well combined and moist.
5. Transfer the dressing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Apples and Sage
Add a twist to traditional cornbread dressing by incorporating sweet apples and savory sage into this moist and flavorful side dish. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
- Add the diced apples and cook until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked apple mixture, chicken broth, melted butter, and dried sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the dressing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cornbread Dressing
Add a sweet and savory twist to your holiday meals with this delicious Caramelized Onion and Cornbread Dressing recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the warmth of cornbread and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions, crumbled cornbread, parsley, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Pour in the chicken broth and mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Cornbread Dressing with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
This savory cornbread dressing is infused with the deep flavor of roasted garlic and a blend of fresh herbs, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. With its moist texture and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves roasted garlic, minced (see note)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine melted butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, roasted garlic, parsley, and thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cornbread crumbs to the skillet, stirring until well combined and heated through.
4. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and lightly browned.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F. Cut the top off of 1 whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Let cool before using.
Summary
Get ready to experience the rich flavors of African American culture through these 18 delectable cornbread dressing recipes. From classic Southern comfort food to spicy twists and savory combinations, each recipe is infused with love and southern charm. Try making the Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sage or spice things up with Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option like Vegan Cornbread Dressing with Celery and Carrots or want to add some smoky flavor with Smoked Turkey and Cornbread Dressing, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering recipes.
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