South Carolina Low Country Dressing
A hearty South Carolina Low Country dressing featuring cornmeal, savory sage, and rich broth, perfect for holiday tables or family gatherings with comforting, flavorful notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornmeal, milk, egg, and melted shortening in a bowl.
- Pour mixture into a skillet and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, put bread pieces and pour part of heated chicken broth; let soak, then crumble cornbread into the bowl and pour remaining broth.
- Sauté onion in 1 stick of butter until translucent, then add to the dressing.
- Add sage and poultry seasoning; mix well.
- Ensure the mixture is very soupy.
- Add beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish and bake at 375°F for about 1 hour until browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of canned. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the cream of mushroom soup. Additionally, you can mix in some cooked sausage or bacon for added texture. Adjust the amount of sage to your taste, as it can be quite potent.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing pairs beautifully with roast chicken or turkey, making it a perfect side for holiday meals. Serve it alongside green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. You could also complement it with a rich gravy or cranberry sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Low Country Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish and cover it with foil, warming it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. For a crispy top, uncover for the last 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Carolina Low Country Dressing contains roughly 1177 calories, with 13g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 971mg per serving (42% 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 prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day ahead. Assemble all ingredients and refrigerate before baking. Just ensure to let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or any other cream soup like cream of chicken. Alternatively, a blended mixture of sautéed mushrooms and cream can also work well.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Low Country Dressing. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
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).