Why This Recipe Works
Time-Saving
Make ahead up to 24 hours and bake when ready. Perfect for busy holidays.
Flavor Power
Golden cornbread base with caramelized celery and onions creates a rich, savory profile.
Versatile
Pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables. Works as a side or main dish.
Comforting
Warm, aromatic herbs and buttery richness create a nostalgic holiday feel.
Ingredients You'll Need
Classic Holiday Cornbread Stuffing Recipe
Savory comfort food for your holiday table
Ingredients
- - 1 cup cubed cornbread (fresh or day-old)
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 1/2 cup chopped celery
- - 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 teaspoon fresh sage (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- - 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- - 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- - 1/2 cup chicken broth
- - 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
Prepare Cornbread: Cut cornbread into 1/2-inch cubes and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to dry out.
💡 Tip: Use day-old cornbread for best texture.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery, onion, garlic, and herbs. Cook 8-10 minutes until softened and golden.
💡 Tip: Cook until onions are translucent for maximum flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Add cornbread, salt, pepper, broth, and eggs to the skillet. Mix until evenly coated.
💡 Tip: Use a wooden spoon to gently fold ingredients.
Rest and Bake: Let mixture rest 30 minutes. Transfer to greased cast-iron skillet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until golden.
💡 Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at end.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Cornbread
Provides the signature texture and flavor. Use gluten-free cornbread for dietary needs.
Substitutions: Cornmeal mush or polenta
Celery
Adds moisture and a fresh, slightly bitter contrast. Can be reduced for a denser texture.
Substitutions: Leeks or fennel
Herbs
Sage is essential for the classic flavor profile. Thyme and rosemary add depth.
Substitutions: Oregano or marjoram
Chicken Broth
Adds moisture and savory depth. Vegetable broth is a suitable vegan option.
Substitutions: Water or stock of choice
Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffing
Texture Control
Let cornbread cubes sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before using to remove excess moisture.
Flavor Boost
Toasted butter in the pan before adding vegetables enhances richness.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Presentation
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for vibrant color.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Version
Omit chicken broth and use vegetable stock. Add diced mushrooms for umami depth.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
Cheesy Twist
Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Crunchy Top
Sprinkle 1/4 cup breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pairing Suggestions
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with gravy for classic Thanksgiving pairing
- Herb-roasted ham with honey glaze for a savory-sweet combo
- Green beans almondine for balanced flavor contrast
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or a spiced chai tea.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per serving.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My stuffing is too dry
A: Add 2-3 tablespoons of broth or milk to the mixture before baking. Cover with foil during baking.
Q: How to prevent sticking
A: Grease skillet thoroughly and let mixture rest 30 minutes before baking to allow binding agents to activate.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs?
A: Yes! Use 1.5x the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried (e.g., 1.5 tsp fresh sage = 1 tsp dried).
Q: How to adjust for altitude
A: Increase oven temperature by 15-25°F and reduce baking time by 5-8 minutes for high-altitude baking.
Final Thoughts
This classic cornbread stuffing brings warmth, aroma, and comfort to any holiday table. Its versatility lets you customize it for dietary needs while maintaining that nostalgic holiday feel.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this side dish pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: start with the turkey, followed by complementary sides like green beans and cranberry sauce, finishing with a pumpkin pie. Your followers will love following the complete festive meal journey!
