Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress your family and friends? Look no further! This cornbread dressing recipe using Jiffy mix is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and holiday feasts alike. It's the perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a delightful texture that's both crispy and moist. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, yet delivers a taste that's undeniably delicious. Get ready to elevate your dinner table with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (pork or chicken) – feel free to use leftover Thanksgiving sausage!
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Veggies
Finely chop the celery and onion. Sauté them in a little butter or olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your dressing.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix well until just combined – don't overmix!
Step 3: Adding the Savory Goodness
Stir in the cooked and crumbled sausage, sautéed celery and onion, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the cornbread dressing rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to set slightly. Serve warm alongside your favorite Thanksgiving turkey, roast chicken, or other hearty main courses.
Tips for the Best Cornbread Dressing:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough dressing. Mix just until the ingredients are moistened.
- Use fresh herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider using fresh sage and thyme instead of dried herbs.
- Add some crunch: Incorporate some toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add 1/2 cup of cooked mushrooms and/or 1/4 cup of chopped pecans for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cranberry Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a sweet and tart addition.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy cornbread dressing recipe is a perfect example of delicious food recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy!