Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

Fresh herbs, savory sausage, and homemade cornbread come together in this mouthwatering Cornbread Stuffing Recipe. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this stuffing offers a delightful mix of flavors that will impress your guests. The crunchy cornbread cubes combined with aromatic spices create an unforgettable side dish that pairs well with turkey, chicken, or even as a standalone delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and savory sausage gives this stuffing a rich and satisfying taste.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the cornbread a day in advance to save time on busy occasions.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this stuffing as a traditional side dish or bake it separately for crispy edges.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfectly serves 8-10 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating a delicious cornbread stuffing.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan (9-inch square)
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking pan: A good-quality baking pan ensures even cooking of the cornbread.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and sausage, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Cornbread

• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal (fine or medium ground)
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/4 cup (85g) honey
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Stuffing

• 2 and 1/2 cups (600ml) reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (130g) diced onion
• 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) sliced celery
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound (454g) uncooked mild Italian sausage
• optional: 1 cup (125g) pecan halves

How to Make Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). In a large bowl, whisk together all of the cornbread ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch square baking pan. Bake for about 22–24 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow it to cool overnight uncovered.

Step 2: Prepare Cornbread Cubes

The next day, preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C). Cut the cooled cornbread into 1-inch cubes—you should have around 7–8 cups. Spread these cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re slightly crisp. Set aside to cool while preparing the stuffing.

Step 3: Mix Broth and Eggs

In a very large bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium chicken broth and eggs until combined. Set this mixture aside as you continue with the next steps.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables and Sausage

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, sliced celery, thyme, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook these ingredients for about four minutes until they start to soften. Add in the sausage meat by squeezing it out of its casings into the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for an additional four minutes until it’s nearly cooked through.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Pour the cooked sausage mixture into the broth and egg mixture, along with any liquid from the skillet. Gently fold in the toasted cornbread cubes and pecans if you’re using them.

Step 6: Bake Stuffing

If you’re using this stuffing to stuff a turkey, cool it completely before doing so. If you plan to bake it separately, like shown in the photos here, spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake at 375°F (191°C) for about 40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Garnish your cornbread stuffing with fresh herbs if desired before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

Cornbread stuffing is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with roasted chicken or turkey for a classic meal.
• Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a fresh contrast.

In a Casserole

• Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly for a cheesy twist.
• Layer with sautéed greens for added flavor and nutrition.

With Gravy

• Drizzle warm chicken gravy over the stuffing for added richness.
• Use vegetable broth as a lighter alternative if preferred.

As a Salad

• Toss cornbread stuffing with fresh greens and vinaigrette for a unique salad.
• Add cranberries or nuts for extra texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

Perfecting your cornbread stuffing can take your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your stuffing shines.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Skimp on Broth: The right amount of broth keeps the stuffing moist while preventing it from becoming dry.
• Toast the Cornbread: Toasting the cornbread cubes adds texture and prevents them from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.
• Add Nuts or Fruits: Consider adding pecans or dried cranberries for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Cool Before Baking: If stuffing a turkey, allow the mixture to cool completely to prevent overcooking the bird.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an interesting kick!

Best Side Dishes for Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

Pairing side dishes with cornbread stuffing can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance against the savory stuffing.
3. Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish offers crunch and creaminess, complementing the texture of cornbread stuffing.
4. Sweet Potato Mash: The sweetness of sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with savory flavors, creating harmony on your plate.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce balances the richness of cornbread stuffing, enhancing each bite.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs pairs well, adding an aromatic touch to your meal.
7. Collard Greens: Sautéed collard greens provide earthy flavors that work well with cornbread stuffing’s sweetness.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans can offer both visual appeal and a hearty option alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your cornbread stuffing, a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Day-Old Cornbread: Freshly baked cornbread is too moist for stuffing. Allow it to cool overnight to prevent sogginess.
• Using Regular Sausage: Avoid using sausage that contains pork. Opt for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter flavor and healthier option.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can break down the cornbread cubes. Fold gently to keep the texture fluffy and light.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Each broth has different salt levels. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Not Letting Stuffing Cool: If you’re stuffing a turkey, let the mixture cool completely. This helps ensure safe cooking and better flavor absorption.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating Cornbread Stuffing Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water as needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the cornbread stuffing recipe:

How do I make this Cornbread Stuffing Recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare this Cornbread Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cornbread a day ahead and store it overnight before assembling the stuffing.

What can I substitute for fresh herbs in this Cornbread Stuffing Recipe?

Dried herbs can be used instead. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs.

Is this Cornbread Stuffing Recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This cornbread stuffing recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With its combination of fresh herbs and savory ingredients, it’s perfect for holiday meals or family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite nuts or vegetables!