Southern Cornbread Stuffing
Southern Cornbread Stuffing combines savory cornbread, toasted pecans, and seasoned broth for a flavorful side perfect for holiday dinners and family feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt bacon drippings until hot.
- Add chopped celery and onions; cook over medium-low heat until tender.
- Stir in herb seasoned stuffing mix, crumbled cornbread, chopped pecans, toasted poultry seasoning, pepper, and salt; toss lightly.
- Add lightly beaten eggs and toss to combine.
- Pour hot chicken broth over the mixture and toss again to evenly distribute.
- Serve hot, yielding about 14 cups, approximately 220 calories per 1/2 cup serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed celery along with the onions. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute bacon drippings with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also incorporate diced apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Cornbread Stuffing pairs beautifully with Grilled Marinated Chicken Breasts or Buttered Honey Chicken Bites. Serve it alongside your favorite green beans or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. It's perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish any time of year.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Cornbread Stuffing contains roughly 190 calories, with 6g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 730mg per serving (32% 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 stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the chicken broth, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the broth and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of bacon drippings?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don't have bacon drippings, you can use butter or olive oil to sauté the vegetables. This will still provide a rich flavor without the meat.
Can I freeze the leftover stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze leftover stuffing. Place it in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight 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).