Luby’s Cornbread Dressing is a Southern classic that brings comfort and rich flavor to any holiday table. Known for its moist texture and savory blend of herbs and spices, this dressing has become a beloved staple in many homes. It’s the perfect side dish to complement turkey, chicken, or ham.
We love how this recipe balances the sweetness of cornbread with the savory depth of onions, celery, and poultry seasoning. It’s easy to make and yields a crowd-pleasing dish that’s full of nostalgia and warmth. Whether you’re preparing a festive feast or a cozy family dinner, Luby’s Cornbread Dressing is sure to impress and satisfy every time.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Luby’s Cornbread Dressing at home, we start with foundational ingredients for the cornbread, followed by the key components that build the rich, savory dressing. We also offer optional add-ins to enhance the flavor and texture to your liking.
Cornbread Ingredients
We base our dressing on the classic sweet Southern cornbread which provides the perfect crumbly yet moist structure.
- 2 cups yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 3/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Dressing Ingredients
The dressing layers savory elements over our cornbread, bringing together a medley of herbs and vegetables for that characteristic Luby’s flavor.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cups dried cornbread, crumbled
- 4 cups dried white bread, cubed
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth (or turkey broth for more depth)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Optional Add-Ins
To personalize your Luby’s Cornbread Dressing we recommend these add-ins that enhance moisture and flavor without overwhelming the classic taste.
| Add-In | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage | 1 cup | Adds savory richness |
| Chopped fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Adds freshness and color |
| Chopped pecans or walnuts | 1/3 cup | Adds crunch and nutty flavor |
| Dried cranberries | 1/4 cup | Adds subtle sweetness |
| Hot sauce or cayenne | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds a touch of heat |
Our ingredient list ensures we capture the essence of the beloved Luby’s Cornbread Dressing—moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced for your holiday table.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Luby’s Cornbread Dressing recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the perfect texture and blend of flavors characteristic of this beloved Southern dish.
- Mixing Bowls
We use at least two large mixing bowls — one for combining wet ingredients and the other for dry. This separation ensures thorough mixing without overworking the batter or dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements matter. Use dry measuring cups for flour and cornmeal, a liquid measuring cup for milk and broth, and spoons for spices and small ingredients.
- Nonstick Skillet or Cast Iron Pan
To make the sweet cornbread base, a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan works best. It yields a nice golden crust crucial for texture in the dressing.
- Baking Pan or Casserole Dish
For baking the assembled dressing, a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole pan is ideal. It allows even cooking and easy serving.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Sturdy mixing tools like a wooden spoon or silicone spatula are perfect for gently folding the cornbread with vegetables and broth.
- Knife and Cutting Board
Essential for chopping onions, celery, and any optional add-ins such as parsley or nuts.
- Whisk
Useful for beating eggs and incorporating them smoothly into the wet mixture.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredient mixing |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Accurate measurement of all ingredients |
| Nonstick skillet/pan | Cooking golden-brown cornbread base |
| Baking dish (9×13-inch) | Baking the dressing evenly |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Mixing without breaking cornbread texture |
| Knife & cutting board | Preparing vegetables and optional ingredients |
| Whisk | Beating eggs and combining wet ingredients |
By gathering these essential tools before we begin, we set ourselves up for success in recreating the classic Luby’s Cornbread Dressing that delivers authentic Southern charm and flavor every time.
Prep Work
Before diving into the assembly of Luby’s Cornbread Dressing, let’s focus on key preparation steps that will ensure a moist texture and perfect flavor balance. Proper prep sets the foundation for this classic Southern dish.
Making the Cornbread
The cornbread forms the backbone of our dressing, so we start here to achieve the ideal crumb and sweetness.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs. Add 1 cup milk and 1/4 cup melted butter. Stir until well blended.
- Incorporate wet into dry: Pour wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread tender.
- Cook: Heat a greased cast iron skillet or nonstick pan over medium heat. Pour the batter evenly and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and crumble: Let the cornbread cool completely before crumbling it into coarse pieces for the dressing base.
Preparing the Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add the savory depth and aroma that define Luby’s Cornbread Dressing.
- Chop onions and celery: Dice 1 cup onion and 1 cup celery finely. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes. This releases their natural sweetness and mellow flavor.
- Set aside: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before mixing into the dressing.
Prepping the Broth and Seasonings
The broth and seasonings infuse moisture and the signature Southern herbaceous flavor.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 3 cups | Preferably low sodium |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Essential blend of herbs |
| Sage | 1 teaspoon dried | Adds earthy depth |
| Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon dried | Complementary herbaceous note |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Balance and enhance flavors |
| Eggs | 2 large | Beat lightly before mixing |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted for richness |
- Warm broth: Gently heat the chicken broth but do not boil—just warm enough to blend flavors smoothly.
- Mix seasonings: Combine poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl for easy incorporation.
- Beat eggs: Lightly whisk the eggs in a separate container to prepare for mixing with the dressing.
By carefully executing these prep steps, we ensure every bite of Luby’s Cornbread Dressing delivers that authentic moist texture and flavorful punch Southern cooks cherish.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to master Luby’s Cornbread Dressing, ensuring every bite bursts with authentic Southern flavor and perfect texture.
Making the Cornbread
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter (unsalted)
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch cast iron skillet or nonstick baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cornbread from the oven and allow it to cool completely before crumbling.
Cooking the Vegetables and Sausage
- Dice 1 large onion and 2 celery stalks finely.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the onions and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Optional: If using 1 cup of cooked sausage, crumble it into the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Combining Ingredients for the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crumbled cornbread | 8 cups | From previous step |
| Dried white bread cubes | 2 cups | Stale or toasted |
| Sautéed vegetables | From above | Onion, celery, (sausage optional) |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | For authentic Southern flavor |
| Dried sage | 1/2 teaspoon | Ground |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | Ground |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Beaten eggs | 2 large | Helps bind the dressing |
| Warm chicken broth | 2 to 2 1/2 cups | Adjust for desired moistness |
- Carefully fold the ingredients together until the mixture is evenly moistened.
Tip: The mixture should be moist but not soggy. Add broth gradually to reach the perfect consistency.
Baking the Dressing
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Transfer the combined dressing mixture into the baking dish and press down gently for an even layer.
- Dot the top with 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Luby’S Cornbread Dressing
To achieve the authentic taste and texture of Luby’S Cornbread Dressing, we need to pay close attention to several key factors during preparation and cooking. Here are our top tips to elevate this classic Southern recipe:
1. Use Day-Old or Dried Cornbread
For the best texture, always start with day-old cornbread or dried crumbled cornbread. Fresh cornbread can add excess moisture resulting in soggy dressing. If the cornbread is fresh, lightly toast it in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes until it feels dry but not browned.
2. Balance Moisture Levels
Moisture is essential for a tender dressing, but too much causes a mushy result. We recommend combining the following liquid ratios precisely:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Warm chicken broth | 3 to 3 ½ cups |
| Beaten eggs | 2 large eggs |
| Melted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) |
Add liquids gradually when mixing. The dressing should be moist and hold together when pressed but not be overly wet.
3. Sauté Vegetables and Optional Sausage
Enhance flavor by gently sautéing onions, celery, and optional cooked sausage until tender and aromatic. This step releases natural sweetness and depth, crucial in Luby’S dressing.
4. Choose Fresh Herbs and Poultry Seasoning
Use freshly measured poultry seasoning, sage, and thyme for an authentic Southern herbal flavor. Avoid substitutes or dried herbs past their prime for the best aroma.
5. Proper Oven Temperature and Baking Time
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the assembled dressing uncovered in a greased baking dish for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through. This allows a crust to form while keeping the inside moist.
6. Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow the dressing to rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier while enhancing flavors.
“Master the balance between moisture and dryness to capture the iconic taste and texture of Luby’S Cornbread Dressing.“
Summary Table of Key Tips
| Tip # | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Use day-old or dried cornbread | Prevents sogginess, improves texture |
| 2 | Gradually add liquids | Achieves perfect moisture balance |
| 3 | Sauté vegetables and sausage | Enhances sweetness and flavor depth |
| 4 | Use fresh herbs and seasoning | Delivers authentic Southern herbal aroma |
| 5 | Bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes | Ensures golden crust and moist interior |
| 6 | Rest 10-15 minutes post-bake | Sets dressing for perfect serving |
By following these proven tips we guarantee your Luby’S Cornbread Dressing will turn out perfectly moist, flavorful, and nostalgic every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To enjoy Luby’s Cornbread Dressing with minimal last-minute effort, preparing key components ahead of time is essential. This strategy allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a perfect texture when baked.
Prepare the Cornbread in Advance
We recommend baking the cornbread 1 to 2 days before assembling the dressing. Once baked, allow it to cool completely. Then crumble the cornbread into bite-sized pieces. Store these in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Using day-old or dried cornbread is crucial to prevent excess moisture, which could make the dressing soggy.
Chop and Sauté Vegetables Early
Chopping and sautéing the onions and celery a day before saves time. After sautéing in butter until softened and fragrant, let them cool completely. Place the mixture in a sealed container and refrigerate. This step develops the sweetness and depth of flavor in the dressing.
Combine and Store the Dressing Mixture
We can also mix the cornbread, sautéed vegetables, seasonings, and broth up to 24 hours before baking. Combine all ingredients thoroughly, adjusting the moisture level to ensure the mixture is moist but not soggy.
| Make-Ahead Step | Timing | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Bake and crumble cornbread | 1–2 days in advance | Airtight container, room temp or refrigerated |
| Sauté onions and celery | 1 day in advance | Sealed container, refrigerated |
| Assemble dressing mixture | Up to 24 hours ahead | Covered bowl, refrigerated |
When ready to bake, transfer the dressing to your prepared baking dish. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Tips for Success
“Preparing ahead not only simplifies your holiday cooking but also intensifies the nostalgic, homemade flavors that make Luby’s Cornbread Dressing so irresistible.”
- Avoid adding extra broth during storage; adjust moisture just before baking if needed.
- Bring refrigerated dressing mixture to room temperature to promote even baking.
- Cover the dish with foil while baking to retain moisture; remove foil during the last 15 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure a stress-free preparation and a deliciously moist and flavorful Luby’s Cornbread Dressing that delights our dinner guests.
Serving Suggestions
Luby’s Cornbread Dressing Recipe is a versatile dish that complements a variety of main courses and can enhance the flavor profile of your entire meal. Here are some expert serving suggestions to help us showcase this Southern classic at its best:
Pairing with Main Dishes
- Serve alongside roast turkey, especially during Thanksgiving or holiday dinners, to soak up all the delicious juices.
- Complement baked or grilled chicken by spooning a generous portion of the dressing on the side.
- Offer with honey-glazed ham for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Presentation Tips
- Use a warm baking dish or ceramic serving bowl to keep the dressing cozy and moist during the meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans for added color and texture.
- For a festive touch, surround the serving dish with fresh cranberries or sliced green onions.
Accompaniments
We recommend pairing Luby’s Cornbread Dressing with these classic Southern sides:
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Reason for Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Collard Greens | Earthy and slightly bitter | Balances the richness of the dressing |
| Candied Yams | Sweet and tender | Enhances the subtle sweetness in cornbread |
| Creamed Corn | Creamy and buttery | Adds a smooth texture contrast |
| Cranberry Sauce | Tart and sweet | Cuts through savory notes |
Reheating Tips
To enjoy Luby’s Cornbread Dressing leftovers, reheat gently to preserve moisture and flavor:
- Cover the dish with foil to retain steam.
- Warm in a 325°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.
- Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the dressing quickly.
Quote to Remember
“The perfect cornbread dressing is not just a side—it’s the heart of the Southern holiday table.“
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure that our Luby’s Cornbread Dressing steals the spotlight at every meal, offering its signature moist texture and flavorful blend in perfect harmony with our holiday favorites.
Conclusion
Luby’s Cornbread Dressing brings a comforting taste of Southern tradition right to our table. Its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, combined with a moist texture, makes it a standout side dish for any holiday feast.
By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, we can recreate this classic with confidence and ease. Whether served alongside turkey, chicken, or ham, it’s sure to become a favorite that brings family and friends together.
Let’s embrace the joy of making this iconic dish and savor the rich heritage it represents in every delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Luby’s Cornbread Dressing?
Luby’s Cornbread Dressing is a traditional Southern side dish made from moist sweet cornbread combined with savory ingredients like onions, celery, herbs, and chicken broth. It’s commonly served with holiday meals featuring turkey, chicken, or ham.
What are the key ingredients in Luby’s Cornbread Dressing?
The key ingredients include sweet southern cornbread, onions, celery, dried white bread, poultry seasoning, sage, thyme, eggs, butter, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Optional extras are sausage, parsley, nuts, cranberries, and hot sauce.
How do I make the cornbread for the dressing?
Combine yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt with eggs, milk, and melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown, then cool and crumble for the dressing base.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan for baking cornbread, a baking dish, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, a knife, cutting board, and a whisk.
How do I keep the dressing moist and flavorful?
Use day-old or dried cornbread to prevent sogginess, sauté onions and celery to bring out sweetness, balance liquids carefully, use fresh herbs, and cover the dish with foil during baking to retain moisture.
Can I prepare Luby’s Cornbread Dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and crumble the cornbread 1-2 days ahead, chop and sauté vegetables a day before, and assemble the dressing mixture up to 24 hours in advance for easier and better-flavored preparation.
What dishes pair well with Luby’s Cornbread Dressing?
It pairs perfectly with roast turkey, baked chicken, honey-glazed ham, and classic Southern sides like collard greens, candied yams, creamed corn, and cranberry sauce to complete your holiday meal.
How should I reheat leftover cornbread dressing?
Reheat gently in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent drying out, and warm until heated through without overcooking.
What is the significance of Luby’s Cornbread Dressing in Southern cuisine?
It’s a nostalgic and cherished dish that captures authentic Southern flavors and traditions, often serving as the centerpiece of festive holiday dinners and family gatherings.