As the savory aromas wafted through my kitchen, I knew I was about to create something special: Bacon Cornbread Stuffing. This holiday side dish elevates any meal with its crispy, golden crust and a heartwarming, fluffy interior. The delightful combination of buttery cornbread, crispy bacon, and fragrant herbs delights both seasoned chefs and casual cooks alike. What’s more, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen! Each bite promises a wonderful textural contrast, from the soft, flavorful stuffing to the crunchy topping that beckons with a satisfying crunch. Curious to learn how to whip up this must-have dish for your festive gathering? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Make Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The combination of savory bacon and buttery cornbread creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates any holiday table.
Textural Delight: Enjoy the crunchy topping mixed with a soft, fluffy interior, making every bite a true pleasure.
Make-Ahead Simplicity: Save time during the festivities with this easy, make-ahead dish that can be ready to bake whenever you are.
Versatile Goodness: This stuffing serves beautifully alongside roasted turkey or even as a base for an open-faced sandwich, allowing you to experiment with flavors.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is sure to impress—bringing everyone together to share in the deliciousness! Don’t forget to check out the Savannah Seafood Stuffing for another fantastic holiday side!
Bacon Cornbread Stuffing Ingredients
For the Stuffing
• Day-old Cornbread – Provides structure and absorbs flavors without becoming mushy; use homemade or store-bought, drying it out if fresh.
• Bacon – Adds smokiness and richness; substitute with pancetta or turkey bacon for a lighter bite.
• Unsalted Butter – Delivers moisture and richness; ghee or coconut oil can replace it for a dairy-free option.
• Yellow Onion – Imparts sweetness and depth of flavor; switch to shallots for a milder taste.
• Celery – Offers a nice crunch and fresh taste; leeks work beautifully as an alternative.
• Fresh Sage & Thyme – Infuses earthy aromatic notes; dried herbs can be used if fresh isn’t available—just use one-third the amount.
• Flat-leaf Parsley – Adds a burst of freshness and color; chives or green onions make a great substitute for a milder flavor.
• Dried Cranberries – Introduces a lovely touch of sweetness; raisins or chopped dried apricots can stand in nicely.
• Turkey or Chicken Stock – Keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful; vegetable stock serves as a solid vegetarian alternative.
• Eggs – Binds the mixture together; for a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water.
• Kosher Salt & Pepper – Elevate all the flavors; add to taste to ensure deliciousness.
For the Topping
• Additional Crumbled Cornbread – Adds more crunch when sprinkled on top before baking; this makes the stuffing irresistibly crispy.
• Fresh Herb Garnish – A sprinkle of more parsley, sage, or thyme on top before serving adds a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Get ready to savor every bite of this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing—it’s the perfect addition to your holiday feast!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Cornbread Stuffing
Step 1: Prep Cornbread
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread your cubed day-old cornbread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the edges are crisp and the cornbread is slightly dried out. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, heat over medium-low and add the diced bacon. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving some of the grease in the skillet for added flavor in the stuffing.
Step 3: Sauté Veggies
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they’ve softened and the onions are fragrant. Stir in the fresh sage and thyme, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for another minute to release the herbs’ aroma.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and turkey or chicken stock until fully combined. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper to complement the flavors in your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing. Setting this aside will ensure a uniform blend when added later.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried cornbread, sautéed veggies, crispy bacon, and dried cranberries. Pour in the egg and stock mixture gradually, folding gently until the cornbread absorbs the liquid. Make sure everything is well-mixed and that no dry cornbread remains.
Step 6: Transfer & Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C), then cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the stuffing to set and makes for easier serving. Plating this deliciously warm Bacon Cornbread Stuffing will surely make your holiday feast unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Bacon Cornbread Stuffing
• Cornbread Drying: Ensure your cornbread has dried out thoroughly beforehand to avoid sogginess; this is crucial for perfect Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.
• Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle additional crumbled cornbread on top before baking; it adds delightful crunch that everyone will love.
• Vegetable Sautéing: Sauté vegetables until they are soft to enhance their flavor; undercooked veggies can lead to a crunchy texture that disrupts the stuffing’s harmony.
• Herb Freshness: Always use fresh herbs where possible; they elevate the taste of your stuffing. If not available, remember to reduce dried herbs to one-third.
• Baking Separately: Bake your stuffing separately from the turkey for better texture and faster cooking; this also allows for even flavor distribution.
Bacon Cornbread Stuffing Variations
Feel free to personalize your stuffing with these delicious twists that will bring extra flavor and flair to your table!
Sausage Swap: Replace bacon with breakfast sausage for a hearty variation. Savory sausage will add a new depth and a bit of spice that pairs beautifully with cornbread.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. The earthy flavor complements the sweetness of cornbread, making it a standout dish.
Spicy Kick: Introduce diced jalapeños for a fun heat. This spicy addition balances the sweetness perfectly, creating a surprising and exciting twist.
Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a personalized flavor profile. Fresh herbs can transform your stuffing into something unique and vibrant.
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable stock and omit bacon for a savory vegetarian option. Incorporate mushrooms for an umami boost, making this stuffing satisfying and flavorful.
Fruity Notes: Swap dried cranberries with chopped apples or pears for a refreshing touch. These fruits will add a hint of sweetness and a contrasting texture to the dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Fold in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for added creaminess. Cheese brings a rich dimension that melds beautifully with the other flavors in the stuffing.
Cranberry Orange: Mix in some orange zest for a lively citrus note. This will brighten the stuffing and harmonize with the cranberries, creating a festive seasonal flavor.
Your holiday table will be even more inviting with these variations, so don’t hesitate to be creative! If you’re looking for more delightful recipes, consider trying out my Bacon Egg Cheese or the Savannah Seafood Stuffing for more crowd-pleasing options.
What to Serve with Crispy Cornbread Stuffing with Bacon
The perfect pairing enhances every bite, making your holiday feast truly unforgettable.
Roasted Turkey: Juicy turkey complements the stuffing’s crunchy texture and savory notes, creating a classic holiday duo that’s hard to resist.
Glazed Ham: The sweetness of glazed ham beautifully contrasts the savory flavor of the stuffing, creating a party of flavors on your plate.
Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans with toasted almonds add a fresh, crisp element that brightens the rich stuffing and balances the meal.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce against the savory stuffing provides a delightful burst of flavor that enhances each bite.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes offer a velvety texture and rich taste to combine seamlessly with the cornbread stuffing.
Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn creates a delightful contrast to the stuffed dish, adding a burst of summer freshness to your holiday table.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the savory and slightly sweet notes in the stuffing, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Pumpkin Pie: End your meal with a slice of this classic dessert; its creamy texture and warm spices are the perfect finish after enjoying savory stuffing.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Bacon Cornbread Stuffing in advance is a fantastic way to save time during your holiday festivities! You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 24 hours ahead of time, simply combining the sautéed veggies, bacon, dried cornbread, cranberries, and the egg-stock mixture in a greased dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then pop it in the oven at 350°F until the top is golden and crispy (around 50-55 minutes total). This make-ahead method ensures every bite of your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cornbread Stuffing
Fridge: Store fully prepared Bacon Cornbread Stuffing in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked stuffing in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, brush with melted butter and place them in a preheated oven at 400°F until heated, about 15-20 minutes.
Make-Ahead: Prepare stuffing components up to 2 days in advance and store separately. Combine just before baking to ensure freshness.
Bacon Cornbread Stuffing Recipe FAQs
Why is day-old cornbread preferred for this recipe?
Absolutely! Day-old cornbread is ideal because it has dried out just enough to absorb the flavors of the stuffing while maintaining its structure. Fresh cornbread can become too mushy, so if you only have fresh, simply spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them dry out in the oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes before using.
How should I store leftover Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
You can keep fully prepared Bacon Cornbread Stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Can I freeze Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
Certainly! To freeze, place the uncooked stuffing in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This makes for a great make-ahead option for your holiday meals!
What if my stuffing turns out too moist after baking?
Very common! If you find that your stuffing is too moist, don’t worry! Simply spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake it at 450°F for about 10-15 minutes until it dries out and becomes crispy on top. The heat will help balance the textures beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cornbread and stock. To create a lighter option, substitute bacon with turkey bacon or pancetta. And for a vegan adaptation, replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg called for in the recipe.
Can I use fresh herbs in place of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor to the stuffing. If using fresh sage and thyme, you’d want to triple the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. So for every tablespoon of fresh herb, use only about one teaspoon of dried. This way, you’ll still achieve that delicious herby taste throughout your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing!
Savory Bacon Cornbread Stuffing for Holiday Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread your cubed day-old cornbread evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the edges are crisp and slightly dried out. Let cool to room temperature.
- In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in sage and thyme, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for another minute.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and turkey or chicken stock until fully combined. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine dried cornbread, sautéed veggies, bacon, and cranberries. Pour in the egg and stock mixture gradually, folding gently until well mixed.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour and spread the stuffing mixture evenly. Let sit for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and cover the dish with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, remove foil, and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Let the dish cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
