Grandma Mildred's Kickin' Cornbread Stuffing

This ain't your average cornbread stuffing! Savory sausage, crispy cornbread, and herbs galore. Perfect for Thanksgiving (or any day you need comfort food!). Get the recipe!

June 8, 2025
By Sally Thompson.

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Grandma Mildred's Kickin' Cornbread Stuffing : Your New Thanksgiving Hero

Ever feel like your thanksgiving needs a bit of a zing ? i do! this ain't your aunt mildred's sad, soggy stuffing, that's for sure.

This cornbread stuffing is the absolute business. it's got that crispy, golden cornbread magic combined with savory sausage and herbs.

Honestly, it will have everyone wanting seconds and thirds.

From Humble Beginnings to Thanksgiving Stardom

This stuffing with cornbread recipe is southern comfort food at its finest. think of it as a soul food stuffing recipe meets thanksgiving elegance.

It takes the best of both worlds. we are talking about that good stuffing recipe you need on your table.

It's not difficult to make, and takes about an hour and fifteen minutes start to finish. it makes about 8-10 servings.

Why You'll Obsess Over This Stuffing

Okay, let's be real. one of the best parts about this recipe is the cornbread itself! but the real magic? it's packed with flavor and fiber! so you can feel slightly less guilty about that third helping.

This cornbread stuffing recipe is perfect for thanksgiving dinner , christmas, or any simple thanksgiving meals where you wanna impress folks.

But what really makes it special? it's the love you put in. (and maybe the sausage.) this is one of the best thanksgiving recipes ever .

It will also give you great insight into what to serve for thanksgiving dinner

Let's Talk Ingredients, Shall We?

Right then, let's gather our bits and bobs. now, you can always grab a loaf of ready-made cornbread from the shop.

I won't judge. but honestly, making it from scratch does take this to another level. it is also one of the different sides for thanksgiving that you and your family would love!

Alright, let's talk ingredients for Grandma Mildred's Kickin' Cornbread Stuffing . This isn't just any stuffing; it's proper soul food stuffing recipes . I had it last thanksgiving dinner. You know?

Grandma Mildred's Kickin' Cornbread Stuffing Recipe Card

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Preparation time:30 Mins

Cooking time:45 Mins

Servings:8-10 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (140g) yellow cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 pound (450g) breakfast sausage, removed from casings
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 stalks celery, chopped (approx. 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth, low-sodium
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh sage (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Prepare the Cornbread (If Making from Scratch): Whisk together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, combine wet ingredients. Combine wet and dry, then bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely. (Skip this step if using store-bought cornbread).
• Crumble the Cornbread: Once cooled, crumble the cornbread into a large bowl. Let sit uncovered, ideally overnight, to dry slightly.
• Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove sausage and set aside. Add onion and celery to the skillet and sauté in the sausage drippings until softened.
• Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with the crumbled cornbread, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, melted butter, chicken broth, dried herbs, and fresh parsley (and sage, if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bake the Stuffing: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake until golden brown and heated through.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Heart of Greatness

This stuffing with cornbread is an absolute staple for the best Thanksgiving recipes ever . It's got that perfect balance. You know, not too fancy, but definitely delicious . Trust me!

Main Ingredients: Let's Get Precise

• Cornbread: If you're making it, you'll need:
  • All-purpose flour: 1 cup (125g)
  • Yellow cornmeal: 1 cup (140g). Make sure it’s finely ground!
  • Baking powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Baking soda: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml)
  • Vegetable oil: 1/4 cup (60ml)
  • Large egg: 1 . One is enough!.
• Stuffing Base:
  • Breakfast sausage: 1 pound (450g), out of the casing. I prefer spicy.
  • Yellow onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 cup)
  • Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115g), melted. It must be unsalted!.
  • Chicken broth: 4 cups (960ml), low-sodium. Trust me on that one.

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

Honestly , the right spices can make or break this dish! These combos are key:

• Sage, thyme, and marjoram: The classic Thanksgiving trio. Use 1 teaspoon dried sage, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram. I found the perfect mix once.
• Parsley and sage: Fresh herbs brighten everything up! 1/4 cup each, chopped.
• Flavor enhancers: Salt and pepper! Don't be shy. Seriously. If you are low, use poultry seasoning.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need fancy gadgets for this good stuffing recipes . These are the bare essentials:

• 9x13 inch baking dish . This is the perfect size.
• Large skillet . For browning the sausage and veggies.
• Large bowl . For mixing everything together.
• Measuring cups and spoons . Obviously If you don't have a skillet, use a pot!

This cornbread stuffing works perfect as one of the different sides for thanksgiving . it makes simple thanksgiving meals so much better! it's what to serve for thanksgiving dinner if you want to be the star of the show.

And honestly, it's a great fall sides recipes option any time of year. get ready to get cookin'.

Alright, let's get cracking on grandma mildred's kickin' cornbread stuffing ! this ain't your average stuffing, love. think thanksgiving at downton abbey, but with more sass and less stuffiness.

Honestly, this is one of the best thanksgiving recipes ever .

Getting Ready for the Stuffing Show

So, before we dive headfirst, a bit of prep is key. Essential mise en place is where it's at.

The Prep Lineup

First, get everything measured. chop that onion, celery, and fresh herbs. this'll save you from scrambling later. crumble that cornbread the night before.

Seriously. that dry cornbread makes all the difference. for time-saving, buy pre-crumbled cornbread, but, honestly, homemade is the way to go.

No kiddin!

Don't Be a Turkey: Safety First

Oh my gosh, keep those paws clean! Wash everything, especially after touching raw sausage. It's just common sense, innit?

Let's Get Stuffing: Step-by-Step

This recipe turns classic Southern cornbread into a delightful side dish, perfect for holidays or anytime you're craving comfort.

1. Cornbread Time: If makin' it from scratch, follow your favorite recipe. Bake till golden, and a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Crumble Time: Let that cornbread cool, then crumble it in a big bowl. Leave it out overnight to dry, guv'nor! This prevents soggy Soul Food Stuffing Recipes .
3. Sausage & Veggies: Brown that sausage in a pan over medium heat. Then, sauté the onion and celery in those delicious drippings. That is very important!
4. Mix It Up: Toss the sausage, veggies, melted butter, 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth, and herbs with the cornbread. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake, Baby, Bake: Dump everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 45 minutes , or until golden brown and heated through. Look for that crispy top!

Stuffing Like a Pro

Want the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing ever? This is how.

Secret Weapons

Use day-old cornbread. It's a total game changer. Also, don't overcrowd the pan, it needs to be nice and even.

Uh Oh! Avoid These Pitfalls

Soggy stuffing? No bueno. Dry that cornbread! Under-seasoned? Give it a taste and adjust as needed. This is one of the Good Stuffing Recipes .

Ready, Set, Ahead!

You can totally make this the day before. just assemble it, chill it, and bake it when you're ready. add about 15 minutes to the baking time.

This gives you more time to deal with the many different sides for thanksgiving .

Looking for Simple Thanksgiving Meals ? This is a great addition! It goes well with classic Fall Sides Recipes .

So, What To Serve For Thanksgiving Dinner ? This cornbread stuffing , roasted turkey or chicken, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole makes a complete experience.

Okay, darlings, let's talk Recipe Notes for Grandma Mildred's Kickin' Cornbread Stuffing . This isn't just any stuffing, this is the Best Thanksgiving Stuffing , trust me.

Serving Up Some Magic

Honestly, presentation matters, right? for plating, think rustic charm. spoon that glorious cornbread stuffing into a warm serving dish. garnish with fresh parsley sprigs.

It looks so pretty! consider a gravy boat nearby! it is one of the good stuffing recipes for a reason.

Pair it with the usual suspects: perfectly roasted turkey, obviously! don't forget that tangy cranberry sauce. something lighter balances out the richness! think about adding different sides for thanksgiving , like roasted brussel sprouts.

For drinks, a crisp cider will cut through all the deliciousness.

Storing Your Treasure

Leftovers? what leftovers? just kidding! refrigerate any leftover cornbread stuffing in an airtight container for up to 3 days. freezing is an option, too! wrap it tightly in foil, then pop it into a freezer bag.

It can last for up to a month.

To reheat, microwave individual portions, or re-bake in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. A touch of extra chicken broth prevents it from drying out.

Twists and Turns (Variations)

Want to make it healthier? use turkey sausage instead of pork. honestly, you'd barely notice the difference! it is also a great soul food stuffing recipes .

You could even add chopped apple for a touch of sweetness.

Need Fall Sides Recipes ? Swap out the regular sausage for spicy chorizo. Use butternut squash instead of celery. You can also consider a Simple Thanksgiving Meals with chicken and this recipe

Nutrition Nuggets

Okay, so this isn't exactly health food, is it? but it's thanksgiving! one serving has around 350 calories. you get a good dose of protein.

Some fiber from the veggies. it is one of the best thanksgiving recipes ever for a reason.

Honestly, the best health benefit is the joy it brings! It's worth the indulgence! Try to include as much greens as possible in What To Serve For Thanksgiving Dinner .

So, there you have it. grandma mildred's kickin' cornbread stuffing deconstructed! don't be scared to experiment! have fun, and enjoy every bite.

I truly think you will love this stuffing with cornbread !