Very few dishes scream comfort food like a hearty cornbread sausage dressing. Perfect for holidays or any day you need a little extra love on your plate, this recipe combines savory sausage with sweet cornbread for a match made in heaven.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of savory sausage and sweet cornbread creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course.
- Easy to make ahead, saving you time on busy days.
- The texture is just right—moist but not soggy, with a delightful crunch on top.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 4 cups crumbled cornbread
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp sage
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat your large skillet over medium heat and add the breakfast sausage. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced celery and onion. Cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This builds flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Add the beaten eggs, chicken broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set in the middle.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Allow the dressing to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crispy top, broil the dressing for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. If you’re making this ahead of time, you can prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold. For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage and low-sodium chicken broth.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist.
- Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or marjoram for a unique flavor profile.
- Use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
- Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your cornbread is made with gluten-free flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought cornbread?
Absolutely! While homemade cornbread adds a special touch, store-bought works just fine in a pinch. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavors balanced.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add mushrooms or another hearty vegetable to keep the texture satisfying.
Can I freeze the dressing?
Yes, this dressing freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Summary
This cornbread sausage dressing is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and versatile, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.