Corn Meal Dressing
A hearty, flavorful cornmeal dressing with savory herbs and vegetables, perfect as a side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the chicken broth and margarine to a boil in a large tall pan.
- Add enough self-rising cornmeal to reach the consistency of cornbread batter.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in chopped onions, chopped celery, bread crumbs, and beaten eggs.
- Mix well until combined.
- Add salt, pepper, sage, and poultry seasoning to taste.
- Pour into a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken fat or butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can replace chicken broth. You can also add diced cooked sausage or mushrooms for more depth. Adjust the spices according to your taste, especially if you enjoy a bolder flavor reminiscent of Gumbo La Pontchartraine.
Serving Suggestions
This Corn Meal Dressing is a delightful side dish, pairing well with roasted chicken or turkey for a festive meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It also complements Southern-style dishes like Chicken Jamaica or a hearty gumbo, making it versatile for various occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Corn Meal Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Meal Dressing contains roughly 1580 calories, with 13g protein, 241g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (190% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), and iron (138% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance. Complete steps up to baking, then cover and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve it, let it come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes it convenient for holiday meals or gatherings.
What can I substitute for self-rising cornmeal?
If you don't have self-rising cornmeal, you can make your own by combining regular cornmeal with baking powder and salt. Use 1 cup of cornmeal, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to mimic the self-rising effect.
Can I freeze Corn Meal Dressing?
Yes, you can freeze Corn Meal Dressing. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).