Cornbread Stuffing: A Step-by-Step Recipe

 How to Make Cornbread Stuffing: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Cornbread stuffing is a Southern favorite that brings rich, buttery cornbread together with savory herbs, vegetables, and broth for a comforting, flavorful side dish. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal, this cornbread stuffing is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a stuffing that will steal the show!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Cornbread:

  • 2 cups cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Stuffing:

  • 4 cups crumbled cornbread
  • 1 cup crusty bread, cubed (optional for texture)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2–3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cornbread

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk, then stir in the melted butter.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cornbread cool completely before crumbling.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, sage, and thyme, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes.

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Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cubed bread (if using), and sautéed vegetables.
2. Add the salt, pepper, and beaten eggs.
3. Gradually pour in the broth, mixing gently until the mixture is moist but not soggy. (You may not need all the broth.)

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Step 4: Bake the Stuffing

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish.
3. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.

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Tips for Perfect Cornbread Stuffing

• Make Cornbread Ahead: Bake the cornbread a day in advance to save time and allow it to dry out slightly, which helps it absorb the broth better.
• Customize Herbs: Add parsley, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne for added depth of flavor.
• Check Moisture Level: The stuffing should be moist but not overly wet—add broth gradually to get the perfect consistency.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Savory: The buttery cornbread and herbs create a deeply flavorful dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday feast.
• Easy to Customize: Add sausage, mushrooms, or cranberries for a unique twist.

Cornbread stuffing is the ultimate side dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a dish that’s not just a side—it’s a star!