Get ready to bring the flavors of the South to your table with these 20 soulful dressing recipes! From classic cornbread dressing to Cajun-inspired andouille sausage dressing, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Southern side dish or something new and exciting, our collection has got it all.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Dixie, where the aromas of baking cornbread, sizzling sausage, and simmering greens fill the air. With flavors ranging from sweet to spicy, smoky to savory, these dressings are sure to become new family favorites. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to give your taste buds a Southern-style makeover!
Classic Southern Cornbread Dressing
This iconic dressing recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, combining the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of herbs and spices. Perfect for your holiday table, this classic cornbread dressing is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion, celery, and garlic until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, melted butter, sautéed vegetable mixture, poultry seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well.
4. Pour the dressing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Soulfood Dressing
This classic Southern-style dressing recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple at many family gatherings. It’s a tangy, savory condiment that adds flavor to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale white bread, torn into small pieces
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped hard-boiled egg
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, mayonnaise, onion, celery, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add chopped parsley, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix again until dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun-Style Andouille Sausage Dressing
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage with the comfort of a traditional dressing, perfect for a Southern-inspired holiday meal. This Cajun-style twist adds a bold and spicy kick that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups stale bread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, bread, and chicken broth. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer the dressing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Pecan Dressing
A delicious twist on traditional stuffing, this Sweet Potato and Pecan Dressing combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch of pecans. Perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, chopped pecans, melted butter, onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, sage, and poultry seasoning.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey Neck Dressing
This recipe yields a savory, comforting dressing that’s perfect for pairing with smoked turkey neck or other poultry dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups stale bread, cubed (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional): parsley, sage, or thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in melted butter until translucent.
3. Add cubed bread, chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a ceramic casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Collard Greens and Cornbread Dressing
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of collard greens and cornbread dressing, perfect for a hearty holiday meal or a cozy family dinner. The tender greens and crunchy cornbread come together in a savory mixture that’s sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups of stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Add the chopped collard greens, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the greens are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the crumbled cornbread and melted butter until well combined.
5. Add the cooked collard green mixture to the cornbread mixture and stir until well mixed.
6. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Dressing: Elevate your holiday meals with this bold and flavorful side dish that combines the warmth of cornbread with the heat of jalapeños. This spicy twist on traditional dressing is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, melted butter, heavy cream, jalapeños, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creole Shrimp and Crab Dressing
A classic Creole-inspired dressing that combines succulent shrimp and crab with a flavorful blend of spices, herbs, and creamy mayonnaise. This recipe is perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a dip for veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, mayonnaise, parsley, garlic, Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in lemon juice.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time) + refrigeration time
Bacon and Sage Infused Dressing
This rich and savory dressing combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the earthy essence of sage, perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a marinade. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a delicious and unique condiment to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine crumbled bacon, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and chopped sage.
2. Whisk until smooth and warm the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
3. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let cool completely before using as a dressing or marinade.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oyster and Herb Dressing
Elevate your holiday dishes with this savory Oyster and Herb Dressing recipe, perfect for accompanying roasted turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cups oysters, drained and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the bread in melted butter until lightly toasted.
3. Add parsley, chives, scallions, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and oysters. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is well combined.
5. Transfer the dressing mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Soulfood Dressing with Mushrooms
Elevate your vegan meals with this creamy, earthy dressing, perfect for slathering on salads, vegetables, or using as a dip. This recipe combines the rich flavors of mushrooms and cashews to create a soul-nourishing condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), stems removed and caps sliced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the mushrooms in a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of water, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to caramelize (about 10 minutes).
4. Add the mushroom mixture to the blender or food processor with the cashew mixture. Blend until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready to use immediately.
Cheesy Grits and Sausage Dressing
This creamy, savory side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Southern-style meals. With the comfort of cheesy grits paired with the smoky flavor of sausage, this dressing is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced cooked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in butter until melted.
3. Add grated cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Fold in diced sausage and chopped onion.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple and Cranberry Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and savory cornbread dressing infused with the flavors of apple and cranberry.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 apples, diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced apples, cranberries, and melted butter. Cook until the apples are tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked apple mixture, and chicken broth. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the dressing into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Ham Hock and Collard Dressing
Smoked Ham Hock and Collard Dressing Recipe
A Southern classic, this creamy dressing is perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a dip for crudités.
Ingredients:
– 1 smoked ham hock (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the ham hock in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper around the ham hock.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove the pot from the oven and let cool slightly.
8. Strain the cooking liquid into a large bowl, discarding the solids.
9. Add the chopped collard greens to the liquid and stir to combine.
10. Stir in the butter and heavy cream until melted and smooth.
11. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Black-Eyed Pea and Cornbread Dressing
A classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals, this Black-Eyed Pea and Cornbread Dressing combines the comforting flavors of black-eyed peas with the warmth of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked black-eyed peas, crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir until mixture is well combined.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Thyme Dressing
Elevate your salads or roasted vegetables with this rich and savory dressing, featuring the deep flavors of caramelized onions and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the onion slices over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
2. Remove the onions from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooled onions, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
Hot Honey Butter Cornbread Dressing
This recipe combines the sweetness of cornbread with the spicy kick of hot honey, perfect for adding a twist to your holiday meals. With its crunchy texture and flavorful taste, this dressing is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cornbread
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons hot honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine cornbread, melted butter, and hot honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
3. Stir in parsley, salt, and black pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Chicken Liver and Herb Dressing
This Southern-style comfort food recipe combines crispy fried chicken liver with a flavorful herb dressing, perfect for a satisfying snack or side dish. With its rich flavor and tender texture, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Herb dressing ingredients (see below)
Herb Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken liver into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry livers until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Remove livers from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
6. In a small bowl, mix together herb dressing ingredients. Serve with fried chicken liver.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Okra and Tomato Cornbread Dressing
This Southern-inspired dressing combines the creaminess of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy cornbread crust. Perfect for accompanying your favorite holiday dishes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh okra
– 1/2 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, heavy cream, okra, tomatoes, and melted butter. Mix until just combined.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
5. Serve warm alongside your favorite roasted meats or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple-Glazed Sweet Cornbread Dressing
Elevate your holiday meals with this sweet and savory cornbread dressing, infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the comfort of crispy, buttery cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine melted butter, maple syrup, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add crumbled cornbread and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in parsley, sage, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your holiday table with these 20 flavorful soulfood dressing recipes, straight from the South! From classic cornbread dressing to unique twists like Cajun-style sausage and sweet potato pecan, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegan or meat-lover, this collection has got you covered. Try Grandma’s old-fashioned recipe, spicy jalapeño cornbread, or smoked turkey neck – the possibilities are endless! These soulful dressings will become new family favorites in no time. Get cooking and bring that Southern charm to your table!