Granna’s Cornbread Dressing (A Southern Holiday Classic That Feeds a Crowd)

There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug from the past, and this beautiful cornbread dressing is exactly that. I’m so grateful to share this treasured family dish inspired by Velma’s holiday table — the kind of recipe that shows up every Thanksgiving and Christmas without fail. The smell when this is in the oven is incredible!! It’s savory, cozy, and completely nostalgic.

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Overview of This Classic Cornbread Dressing

This is a moist, Southern-style cornbread dressing baked in a large pan and made to serve a crowd. It’s simple, hearty, and perfectly seasoned with sage, onions, and celery. Despite how it may look during prep (you might think it’s too wet or too dry!), it bakes into a beautifully sliceable casserole that tastes like the holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Feeds 24–36 people — perfect for big gatherings
Super moist without being soggy
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
Can be made ahead
Tastes even better the next day

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

What It Tastes Like

Imagine soft cornbread infused with savory chicken and turkey broth, little bites of onion and celery for texture, and that classic holiday hint of sage. It’s rich but not heavy. Flavorful but not overpowering. Anything but boring!!

Benefits of This Recipe

Budget-friendly for large families
Customizable to your taste
Easy prep — no complicated steps
Crowd-approved holiday staple

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 packages cornbread mix (plus ingredients listed on package)
10 cups shredded bread (toasted lightly)
1 ½ cups diced onion
½ cup diced celery
2 large hard-boiled eggs, diced
1 ½ teaspoons rubbed sage
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
4 cans (14.5 oz each) chicken broth
½ cup turkey broth

Necessary Kitchen Tools

Very large mixing bowl (deep!)
Baking tray (for toasting bread)
Large 11 x 16 x 2.5-inch baking pan
(A 9×13 is too small — trust me on this one!)
Mixing spoon
Oven preheated to 350°F