Mama’s Cornbread Dressing is more than just a dish; it’s a treasured legacy in our family, rich with history and love. Rooted in Southern tradition, this recipe marries the savory goodness of cornbread with a symphony of flavors, making it a staple at family gatherings, especially during holidays and special occasions. Its lineage can be traced back to Native American cuisine, where cornmeal was a key ingredient, evolving over time into a Southern culinary icon revered for its comforting and unifying qualities.
This versatile cornbread dressing can shine as a main dish or a complementing side. It pairs exceptionally well with classic holiday fare like roasted turkey and chicken. For a true Southern feast, serve it alongside favorites like collard greens, green bean casserole, and mashed sweet potatoes. The medley of these dishes creates a harmonious and satisfying meal, leaving everyone around the table grateful and content.
Mama’s Cornbread Dressing Recipe:
Ingredients:
32 ounces dry cornbread mix
1/2 cup melted butter
6 chopped hard-boiled eggs
1 diced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 diced celery stalk
1 teaspoon rubbed sage
28 ounces chicken broth
2 cups turkey stock
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté the celery and onion until tender and translucent.
Prepare the cornbread as per the package instructions, let it cool, then crumble it.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed celery, onion, melted butter, and chopped eggs. Mix gently.
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and sage.
Gradually add the chicken and turkey broth, a cup at a time, until the mixture is moistened but not overly wet.
Place the dressing in a Dutch oven or stuff it inside a turkey cavity for baking.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C).
Enjoy the warmth and richness of Mama’s Cornbread Dressing, a dish that not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul. Its timeless appeal and the legacy of familial love make it a cherished component of any meal, carrying forward the tradition of togetherness and good food. Prepare it with the same love that Mama did, and watch it become an enduring favorite at your family table.