There’s just something so comforting about Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing! It’s rich, savory, and has that wonderful ability to bring everyone around the table together. I can still remember my grandmother stirring up her famous dressing, filling the kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas. It’s the perfect side dish that complements turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian feast! Trust me, once you taste this dressing, you’ll understand why it’s a staple on our holiday table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will warm your heart and your home. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!

Ingredients List

• 1 loaf of cornbread, crumbled (for that classic Southern base)
• 1 cup of stale bread, cubed (adds great texture)
• 1 onion, chopped (for savory sweetness)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (brings a nice crunch)
• 4 cups of chicken broth (use low-sodium if you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon of sage (for that warm, earthy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of thyme (a fragrant herb that ties it all together)
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (for a subtle kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 eggs, beaten (helps bind everything)
• 1/2 cup of butter, melted (for richness and flavor)

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Dressing Southern

Making Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready for the holiday table. Trust me; the love you put into this will shine through every bite!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important as it ensures even baking!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine your crumbled cornbread and cubed stale bread. This mixture is the heart of your dressing!
3. Now, grab a skillet and sauté the chopped onion and celery over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
4. Once the veggies are ready, add them to the bowl with the bread mixture. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
5. Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
6. Now, add the beaten eggs and melted butter, stirring again to ensure a nice, even mix. This helps bind everything together!
7. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will allow for even cooking!
8. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the kitchen smells heavenly!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delightful Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 6g

Now you can enjoy your dressing with a little more peace of mind, knowing it’s not only delicious but also packed with flavors and textures that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a classic Southern dish that brings warmth and tradition to your Thanksgiving table.
• Super easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich, savory flavors that complement turkey, ham, or any festive feast beautifully.
• The use of cornbread gives it a unique texture and taste that you won’t find in store-bought options.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone will want seconds!
• Perfect for leftovers, you can enjoy it for days after the holiday.
• This dressing is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s a fabulous side for any occasion!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing turns out beautifully, here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up over the years!

• Use Day-Old Bread: If you can, let your bread sit out overnight to stale a bit. This helps it absorb the broth better, giving you that perfect texture!
• Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be shy about tasting your mixture before baking. If you love a bit more sage or thyme, sprinkle it in! Everyone’s taste is different, so make it your own.
• Mix it Up: Feel free to add in extras like cooked sausage, diced apples, or even nuts for some crunch. These additions can elevate your dressing to the next level!
• Cover it Up: If you notice the top is browning too quickly while baking, just cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Freezing: You can also freeze your dressing! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should keep well for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

With these tips in hand, you’re set to create a dressing that not only tastes amazing but also feels like a warm hug on your holiday table. Happy cooking!

Common Questions About Thanksgiving Dressing Southern

I know you might have a few questions about making the perfect Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out.

Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade cornbread gives the best flavor, store-bought is a convenient option that will still yield delicious results. Just make sure to crumble it well!

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. This is a great way to save time on Thanksgiving Day!

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

No worries! You can use vegetable broth or even water, but chicken broth adds that rich, savory flavor that makes this dressing special. If you go with water, consider adding a bit more seasoning.

How can I make my dressing more flavorful?

Great question! You can add extra herbs like rosemary or parsley, or even toss in some sautéed mushrooms or cooked sausage for depth. Just remember to taste as you go!

Is this dressing gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free cornbread and gluten-free bread in place of the regular bread. It’ll still be just as tasty, and everyone can enjoy it!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing, the options are endless! This dish is a fantastic complement to a variety of main courses and sides that will make your holiday meal truly memorable. Here are some of my favorite pairings that will enhance the dining experience:

• Roast Turkey: The classic pairing! The savory flavors of the dressing perfectly balance the rich, succulent turkey.
• Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of the ham contrasts beautifully with the savory dressing, creating an unforgettable flavor combo.
• Collard Greens: This Southern staple adds a nice touch of bitterness and earthiness that pairs well with the dressing’s richness.
• Green Bean Casserole: The creamy texture and crunch from the fried onions in this dish provide a delightful contrast to the dressing.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a comforting classic that complements the dressing’s texture perfectly.
• Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce on your plate adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the whole meal!
• Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of the casserole beautifully balances the savory notes of the dressing, creating a harmonious Thanksgiving plate.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your family’s favorites! Each of these dishes will bring out the best in your dressing and turn your holiday meal into a feast to remember. Happy feasting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing and reheating your Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor and texture intact! If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope you do!), here’s how to handle them like a pro.

First off, let the dressing cool completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it if you have a lot of leftovers—trust me, it can get mixed up in there!

If you want to save some for a later date, you can also freeze your dressing. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

For reheating, you have a couple of options! If you have the time, the best way is to reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then transfer the dressing to a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but just be careful not to dry it out.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing long after the holiday feast is over. Enjoy every bite!

Thanksgiving Dressing Southern: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Southern-style Thanksgiving dressing with a savory flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 loaf of cornbread, crumbled
• 1 cup of stale bread, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon of sage
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup of butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and stale bread.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and celery until soft.
4. Add the sautéed vegetables to the bread mixture.
5. Stir in chicken broth, sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
6. Add beaten eggs and melted butter; mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

• Use homemade cornbread for best flavor.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: thanksgiving dressing, southern dressing, cornbread dressing