Grandma's Secret Recipe for Delicious Cornbread Dressing | Simple Homemade Dish

Introduction

Today, we're diving into a cozy, comforting dish that's perfect for any holiday table or a family dinner: Chicken and Sausage Cornbread Dressing. This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken and sausage with the sweetness of cornbread, creating a side dish that's sure to win hearts and delight taste buds. Simple yet flavorful, this dressing doesn't overcomplicate things; it focuses on quality ingredients coming together to take you back to those cherished family meals.

Ingredients

• Cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
• Roasted chicken, shredded
• Chicken andouille sausage (or any smoked sausage)
• Chicken stock or broth
• Celery, diced
• Onion, diced
• Sage, fresh and chopped
• Butter
• Eggs
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil (infused, if available)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will be for warming the cornbread, which helps to dry it out slightly for the dressing.

2. Prepare the Cornbread: Crumble your cornbread into a large mixing bowl. If you're using homemade cornbread, make sure it has cooled before crumbling.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a tablespoon and a half of infused olive oil. Add the diced celery and onion, sautéing until they're just becoming translucent.

4. Cook the Sausage: Slice your chicken andouille sausage and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook just until the sausage begins to brown slightly.

5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and melted butter. This mixture will help bind the dressing together.

6. Mix Dressing: To your crumbled cornbread, add the sautéed vegetables and sausage, shredded chicken, fresh sage, and the egg and butter mixture. Begin to mix, slowly adding chicken stock until the dressing reaches a moist but not soggy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Bake: Transfer the dressing mixture to a greased 13x9 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. If the dressing browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking until set.

8. Serve: Let the dressing cool slightly before serving alongside your favorite main dishes. This dressing pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even on its own with a dollop of cranberry sauce.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Sausage Cornbread Dressing is a testament to the beauty of simple, hearty cooking. It brings together the comforting flavors of the holiday season in a dish that's sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether it's part of your Thanksgiving spread or a cozy weekend dinner, this dressing is a celebration of good food and good company. Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia it brings to your table.