If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your Thanksgiving feast or any holiday meal, look no further than our classic Jiffy Cornbread Dressing recipe. This Southern-inspired dish is bursting with flavor and comforting textures, making it a beloved favorite at family gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a staple on your holiday table. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions of this timeless dressing.
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 2 1/4 cups celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon sage, dried or fresh
Refrigerated:
- 5 eggs
Canned Goods:
- 2 cups chicken broth
Baking & Spices:
- 2 (8.5 ounce) boxes Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 5 slices stale or toasted bread, torn into small pieces
Dairy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 2/3 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cornbread:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Jiffy corn muffin mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow the cornbread to cool completely, then crumble it into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread with the torn bread pieces.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the celery, onion, and sage, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked vegetables to the bowl with the cornbread and bread.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, chicken broth, buttermilk, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cornbread mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Bake the Dressing:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the dressing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the dressing is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve alongside your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Additions: Feel free to add additional ingredients such as cooked sausage, diced apples, or toasted pecans for extra flavor and texture.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cornbread and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the dressing.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs, milk, and butter with vegan alternatives to make a vegan-friendly version of this dressing.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use homemade cornbread instead of Jiffy mix? A: Yes, you can use homemade cornbread in place of the Jiffy mix. Simply prepare your favorite cornbread recipe and crumble it into small pieces.
Q: How do I know when the dressing is done baking? A: The dressing is done when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the center is set. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the dressing – if it comes out clean, the dressing is ready.
Q: Can I freeze leftover dressing? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover dressing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Version:
To make a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this Jiffy Cornbread Dressing, follow these modifications:
- Low-Carb Bread: Substitute the bread with low-carb bread or almond flour-based bread to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Cornbread: Use a low-carb cornbread mix or almond flour-based cornbread recipe.
- Reduced Liquid: Decrease the amount of milk and chicken broth to reduce the carb content further.
- Alternative Binders: Use almond flour or coconut flour as binders instead of traditional bread.
Our Jiffy Cornbread Dressing recipe is a timeless classic that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. With its savory flavors, tender texture, and comforting aroma, this dressing is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or customize it to suit your dietary preferences, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your holiday table. Try out this recipe today and savor the delicious taste of homemade comfort food!
