Martha Pafford'S Dressing
Martha Pafford's Dressing is a savory, hearty casserole combining cornbread, chicken, eggs, and sage, perfect for comforting family meals or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cornbread in a baking pan and pour chicken broth over it.
- Mash the mixture with a potato masher.
- Mix chopped boiled chicken, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, chopped celery, chopped boiled eggs, mayonnaise, sage, and salt into the bread mixture.
- Add milk gradually if the mixture is stiff until it becomes juicy.
- Place the mixture in the oven and bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken instead of boiled chicken. You can also substitute the sage with thyme or poultry seasoning for a different taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the mayonnaise or use a bit of sour cream. Be sure to season the mixture well, tasting as you go, to ensure it’s just right. This dressing is great as a side for Poulet Cordon Bleu.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dressing as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal. It pairs beautifully with Herb Roasted Onions and a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes. This dish is also delightful on its own, showcasing the flavors of the chicken and herbs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Martha Pafford'S Dressing contains roughly 810 calories, with 18g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1476mg per serving (64% 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 use a different type of bread for the dressing?
Yes, while cornbread is traditional, you can use any type of bread, such as white bread or sourdough. Just make sure it's a bit stale for better absorption of the broth. This will give the dressing a unique flavor and texture.
How can I make this dressing vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of other vegetables like zucchini and carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the boiled eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a similar texture.
Can I prepare this dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and can save you time on the day of your meal.
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).