Are you looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your Thanksgiving feast or simply a delicious and comforting meal any day of the week? Look no further! This Betty Crocker Cornbread Stuffing recipe takes a classic and makes it even better. Forget dry, crumbly stuffing; this recipe delivers moist, flavorful cornbread stuffing that's bursting with herbs and the perfect blend of textures. It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade comfort food!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for your gathering.
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) Betty Crocker Super Moist corn muffin mix
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, oil, and water according to package directions. Mix until just combined; don't overmix. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cornbread cool completely before crumbling.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the cornbread is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step adds incredible depth of flavor to your stuffing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the cornbread is cool, crumble it into a large bowl. Add the sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Gently mix everything together until well combined. If using, stir in the fresh parsley.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar oven-safe dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned on top.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffing:
- Don't overmix the cornbread batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread. Mix until just combined.
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh sage and thyme will impart a more vibrant flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices according to your preference.
- Add some crunch: Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your stuffing.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Stuffing: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Stuffing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Stuffing: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese during the final mixing stage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
This Betty Crocker Cornbread Stuffing recipe is a guaranteed hit at your next gathering. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!