Cornbread stuffing is a beloved classic, especially around the holidays. It’s warm, savory, and full of comforting flavors that pair perfectly with turkey or any roast. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I make cornbread stuffing?-you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through making a flavorful, moist, and perfectly textured cornbread stuffing from scratch, with tips to customize it to your taste.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients for Cornbread
– Cornmeal and all-purpose flour
– Baking powder and baking soda
– Salt
– Unsalted butter (melted)
– Honey
– Egg
– Buttermilk
Ingredients for Stuffing
– Homemade or store-bought cornbread, cubed and toasted
– Butter
– Onion and celery, finely chopped
– Garlic (optional)
– Fresh or dried herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley
– Chicken or vegetable broth
– Eggs
– Optional add-ins: sausage, pecans, bell peppers
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cornbread Stuffing
1. Make or Buy Cornbread
Start by baking a simple cornbread. Mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, melted butter, honey, egg, and buttermilk. Bake until golden and let it cool completely. For convenience, you can use store-bought cornbread, but homemade adds extra flavor.
2. Dry Out the Cornbread
Cut the cooled cornbread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 300–375°F for about 10 minutes until lightly crisp. This step helps the cornbread absorb the broth without becoming soggy.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped onions and celery until soft and fragrant, about 5-10 minutes. Add garlic if you like. This builds the savory base flavor for your stuffing.
4. Mix the Stuffing
In a large bowl, combine the toasted cornbread cubes with the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Whisk together broth and eggs, then pour over the cornbread mixture. Toss gently to moisten everything evenly. If it feels dry, add a little more broth.
5. Add Optional Ingredients
For extra richness, cook and crumble mild Italian sausage into the mix or fold in pecans for crunch. Bell peppers and green onions can also add a fresh twist.
6. Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350–375°F for 25-40 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp. If stuffing a turkey, cool the mixture completely before stuffing to ensure safe cooking.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Stuffing
– Use day-old or cooled cornbread to get the best texture.
– Toast the cornbread cubes to prevent sogginess.
– Fresh herbs make a big flavor difference, but dried herbs work well too.
– Make ahead: Prepare the stuffing a day or two in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for ease and deeper flavor.
– Customize: Add sausage, nuts, or extra veggies to suit your taste.
Cornbread stuffing is a comforting, flavorful side that’s surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to be a star at your table. Ready to try it out? Let me know if you want tips on variations or how to make it vegan!