Cornbread Dressing Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe

Ah, cornbread dressing! There’s something undeniably comforting about it. A classic staple in Southern kitchens, it’s a dish that effortlessly brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to any gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a Sunday family meal, or just a cozy weeknight, cornbread dressing never fails to impress. It’s hearty, savory, and incredibly versatile, with the option to customize it with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste.

But this isn’t just any cornbread dressing; it’s a version made extra creamy with a can of cream of chicken soup, which adds a velvety richness to the whole dish. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture, this is it. So, let’s dive into how you can create this comforting dish step-by-step.

Cornbread Dressing Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe

In this recipe, the cornbread provides a base that’s both slightly sweet and savory, while the cream of chicken soup lends a rich, creamy texture that binds everything together. It’s a dish that combines the best of both worlds: the crisp, crumbly texture of cornbread and the moist, luscious consistency of a well-made dressing.

Here’s how to make this deliciously creamy cornbread dressing:

Ingredients Needed

• Cornbread (crumbled) – About 6 cups, preferably made the day before for the best texture.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – One can (10.5 oz), which is going to add that smooth, rich consistency.
• Chicken Broth – 1 ½ cups, to hydrate the cornbread and balance out the richness of the soup.
• Butter – 1/2 cup, to bring richness and flavor.
• Onion (chopped) – 1 medium onion, finely chopped, for a bit of sweetness and depth.
• Celery (chopped) – 1-2 stalks, finely chopped, giving a nice crunch and subtle earthy flavor.
• Eggs – 2 large eggs, for structure and moisture.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon, for an aromatic kick.
• Sage (dried) – 1 teaspoon, a key herb that adds earthiness and is quintessential in Southern-style dressings.
• Thyme (dried) – 1/2 teaspoon, for a fragrant, herby note that complements the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Optional – Chopped cooked chicken or turkey (about 1 cup) for added protein and extra flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot before you put the dish in.
2. Prepare the cornbread: If you haven’t done so already, bake your cornbread. Let it cool completely before crumbling it into bite-sized pieces. You can also use store-bought cornbread if you’re short on time, but homemade gives the best texture.
3. Sauté the veggies: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté them until the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The vegetables should soften and become fragrant, which is key to building that flavorful base.
4. Mix the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed onions, and celery. Add the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, eggs, garlic powder, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well incorporated. If you’re adding chicken or turkey, fold it in now.
5. Bake it: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth it out to ensure it bakes evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the dressing is bubbling around the edges.
6. Rest and serve: Let the dressing sit for a few minutes before serving so it can set. This gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to firm up slightly.

Ingredient Insights

• Cornbread: The crumbled cornbread is the star of the show here. It provides that signature texture that makes dressing so comforting. The slightly crumbly yet firm nature of cornbread allows it to absorb all the flavorful liquids without becoming soggy. Use a cornbread that’s made a day or two in advance for the best texture.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This ingredient is a game-changer. It’s thick, creamy, and adds an almost luxurious mouthfeel to the dressing. You can also experiment with other cream soups (like cream of mushroom) for a different flavor profile, but chicken is traditional and works wonderfully in this dish.
• Herbs and Spices: Sage and thyme are the traditional herbs that complement cornbread in this Southern classic. These herbs provide that earthy, aromatic backdrop that defines the dish. Garlic powder adds a savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Broth and Eggs: Chicken broth provides the necessary moisture for the cornbread while enriching the flavor profile, while eggs help hold everything together. They give the dressing that perfect, slightly custard-like texture.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: Cornbread dressing can be made a day ahead of time. Assemble everything and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
• Add moisture: If your dressing seems too dry before baking, you can always add a bit more chicken broth. Be careful not to make it too soggy, but if it’s looking a little on the dry side, a splash of broth can save the day.
• For extra richness: Add a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream to the mix for an even creamier texture.
• Perfect crispy topping: If you love a crispy top (who doesn’t?), try spreading a few extra pats of butter over the top of the dressing before baking. This will give it a golden, crispy crust that’s irresistible.
• Watch the baking time: The dressing should be golden brown on top, with a slightly crispy texture. If the top starts getting too dark but the center isn’t fully cooked, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until it’s done.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: You can easily make this dressing vegetarian by swapping the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or even a homemade vegetable cream soup. Skip the chicken or turkey, and you’ll still have a satisfying, flavorful dish.
• Meat Lovers: For a more hearty, meaty dressing, try adding cooked sausage, bacon, or even ham. These will infuse the dish with smoky, savory flavors.
• Spicy Twist: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a little heat. This balances beautifully with the creamy texture and adds an unexpected kick.
• Gluten-Free: You can make this gluten-free by using gluten-free cornbread and ensuring that the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. There are plenty of gluten-free soup options available on the market.

Final Words

Cornbread dressing made with cream of chicken soup is an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy cornbread, the creamy, savory soup, the herbs, and the vegetables come together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that’s rich, comforting, and filled with layers of flavor, making it perfect for any holiday or just a cozy meal at home.