Irresistible Cornbread Dressing with Cream of Chicken Soup: A Creamy Delight

Are you planning a family gathering or holiday meal? Think about making cornbread dressing with cream of chicken soup. This Southern dish is loved by many in America. Adding cream of chicken soup makes it even more special. You can make it from scratch or use store-bought cornbread for ease.

This dish is a hit, with over 3K shares on social media. It’s great because you can make it up to 10 days ahead. Whether you want a traditional or creamy version, this recipe will wow your guests.

To make cornbread dressing, you’ll need about 7 cups of day-old cornbread. It also calls for 1 cup of sliced celery and 1 cup of diced onions for extra flavor. Baking it at 350°F for 40-45 minutes makes it quick and easy to prepare.

What is Cornbread Dressing?

Cornbread dressing is a key part of Southern cuisine, often seen at holiday meals. It’s made with cornbread, veggies, and sometimes meat or broth. You can choose to make a traditional cornbread dressing or go for a creamy cornbread dressing with cream of chicken soup.

To whip up an easy cornbread dressing recipe, you’ll need cornbread, veggies, and broth. The secret to a fantastic dressing is using top-notch ingredients and a simple recipe.

Defining Cornbread Dressing

Many people mix up cornbread dressing with stuffing. But, the big difference is that dressing is cooked outside the turkey, while stuffing is inside. A tasty traditional cornbread dressing comes from mixing cornbread, veggies, and broth.

Ingredients Overview

For cornbread dressing, you’ll need cornbread, veggies like onion and celery, and broth. Adding meat or cream of chicken soup can boost the flavor. For an easy cornbread dressing recipe, pre-made cornbread and broth are great options.

Historical Context of Cornbread Dressing

Cornbread dressing has a rich history in Southern cuisine, most famously at Thanksgiving. It’s a side dish, often paired with turkey and mashed potatoes. You can make a creamy cornbread dressing by adding cream of chicken soup.

Why Use Cream of Chicken Soup in Dressing?

Using cream of chicken soup in cornbread dressing can make a big difference. It adds a rich, creamy texture that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. You can mix it with sage, onions, and celery for a taste that’s true to Southern cuisine.

Adding cream of chicken soup to your dressing also brings nutritional benefits. A serving can have about 346 calories, 27g of carbs, 9g of protein, and 23g of fat. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and sugar. Here’s what you need to make a tasty dressing:

• 1 cup of cornbread, crumbled
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1/4 cup of chopped celery
• 1/4 cup of chopped onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Using cream of chicken soup in your dressing is also convenient. It saves time and effort. Just mix it with the other ingredients, and you’re all set. It’s great for busy cooks who want a delicious dressing without spending hours in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Cornbread Dressing

Making a tasty homemade cornbread dressing starts with the right ingredients. For a true southern taste, you need homemade cornbread as the base. Homemade cornbread adds more flavor and moisture than store-bought.

To make your cornbread, you’ll need cornmeal, flour, eggs, and butter. You can also add herbs and spices for extra flavor. After making the cornbread, crumble it and mix it with veggies, herbs, and seasonings for your dressing.

Key ingredients for your dressing include celery, onion, and chicken broth. They add flavor and moisture, making your dressing a great side dish. You can also add different herbs and spices, like sage or thyme, to customize your dressing.

Here are some tips for making your homemade cornbread dressing:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense dressing.
• Add herbs and spices for a unique taste.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Cornbread Dressing

To make a delicious cornbread dressing, start by preparing the cornbread. Use self-rising cornmeal from Martha White and self-rising flour from White Lily. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and bake the cornbread for 20 to 25 minutes.

Once the cornbread is ready, mix the dressing ingredients. You’ll need 3 medium onions, 4 stalks of celery, and 1/2 cup of butter. Saute the onions and celery in butter until they’re tender. Then, add 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Now, combine the cornbread, sauteed onions and celery, and chicken broth. Add 1 Tbsp. of fresh rosemary, 1/2 tsp. of dried basil, and 1/2 tsp. of ground thyme for flavor. Mix everything together and adjust the moisture level. You can add about 2/3 of the broth for a drier dressing or all of it for a moist dressing.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Your traditional cornbread dressing is now ready. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when needed. This recipe yields 18 servings and is perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing

To make a tasty cornbread dressing, balance moisture, baking, and cooling times are key. A good recipe should be neither too dry nor too wet. For a classic Thanksgiving dish, getting the ingredients just right is essential.

Remember, cornbread and biscuits need to sit out for 48 to 72 hours to stale. This step is important for a flavorful and textured dressing. You can also stale cornbread in a cold oven for up to a week.

Check the dressing often while it bakes to avoid overcooking. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-45 minutes. These tips will help you make a delicious cornbread dressing for Thanksgiving.

Here are some more tips to remember:

• Use a mix of cornbread, white sandwich bread, and biscuits for great flavor and texture.
• Add poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Use about 6 cups of chicken broth for a soupy dressing.

By following these tips and using a balanced recipe, you’ll impress your guests. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or any other time, these tips will help you make a perfect cornbread dressing.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

There are many ways to make traditional cornbread dressing your own. You can make it creamy by adding more cream of chicken soup or sour cream. For a southern twist, add diced jalapenos or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Adding vegetables like diced celery, onions, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor. You can also try different spices and seasonings, such as sage, thyme, or paprika. For a heartier dish, add cooked sausage or bacon to your southern cornbread dressing.

Here are some ideas for variations on the classic recipe:

• Add diced ham or cooked chicken for extra protein
• Use different types of bread, such as white or whole wheat, for a unique texture
• Experiment with various herbs and spices, such as parsley or garlic powder

Remember, the key to a great cornbread dressing is to experiment. Whether you like traditional or creamy cornbread dressing, there are endless possibilities.

Serving Suggestions for Cornbread Dressing

Cornbread dressing is great with many dishes. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or everyday meals. You can pair it with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or enjoy it as a side for a casual dinner.

For a classic Thanksgiving, serve it with turkey, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Or, for a casual meal, try it with grilled chicken or at a barbecue. The secret is to match it with dishes that enhance its rich flavor.

Here are some creative ways to serve your Thanksgiving cornbread dressing:

• Serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin or squash for a festive touch
• Use it as a stuffing for chicken or turkey breasts
• Top it with crispy bacon or chopped herbs for added flavor and texture

These ideas will help you enjoy your cornbread dressing in many ways. Whether it’s for a holiday or a casual dinner, your flavorful cornbread dressing will be a crowd-pleaser.

Storing and Reheating Cornbread Dressing

To keep your easy cornbread dressing recipe fresh, you need to store and reheat it right. Whether it’s a creamy cornbread dressing or a traditional cornbread dressing, the steps are the same.

For storage, put the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you plan to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until it’s hot all the way through.

• Covering the dish with foil to prevent drying out
• Reheating individual servings in the microwave for convenience
• Adding a little water or broth if the dressing seems dry after reheating

By following these tips, you can enjoy your easy cornbread dressing recipe or creamy cornbread dressing for longer. Always check for spoilage before eating, and reheat to 165°F for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about homemade cornbread dressing? Like can you make it ahead of time? Or what substitutions are good for dietary needs? How about adjusting the recipe for more people? We’ve got answers for you.

Making southern cornbread dressing is an art. But with the right tips, you can make a delicious dressing that everyone will enjoy. Yes, you can make the cornbread ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

For dietary restrictions, you can make some changes. Use gluten-free cornbread or swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Here are more substitutions:

• Use almond milk instead of regular milk
• Use vegan butter instead of regular butter
• Use gluten-free cornbread mix

To make more dressing, just multiply the ingredients. You can also use a bigger baking dish for a larger batch. Here’s a table to help you adjust:

With these tips, you can make a tasty cornbread dressing. It’s perfect for any occasion or a simple weeknight dinner. Homemade cornbread dressing is always a hit.

Final Thoughts on Cornbread Dressing

As we wrap up our look at creamy cornbread dressing, it’s clear this dish is a true treasure. The mix of moist, tasty traditional cornbread dressing and the smooth cream of chicken soup makes it special. It adds a rich flavor to any meal.

Whether you like the classic southern cornbread dressing or a new twist, this recipe lets you be creative. Try different breads, add your favorite veggies, or use herbs and spices to make it yours.

We invite you to try this recipe and share your own versions. Cooking is about making dishes that show off your taste and style. So, don’t hold back and add your own special touch to this classic.