Few dishes capture the warmth of holiday gatherings like Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing. This classic recipe blends the rich, buttery flavor of cornbread with savory herbs and spices, creating a comforting side that pairs perfectly with turkey or ham. It’s a timeless favorite that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal.
We love how simple ingredients come together to make something so flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at holiday sides for the first time, this stuffing recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistent results. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious cornbread stuffing that’s sure to become a staple at your table.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing, we start with a well-balanced selection of ingredients. Below, we break down the essential components that build the foundation of this savory holiday classic.
Cornbread Base
This recipe relies on Aunt Jemima Cornbread as the core ingredient. Using a rich, moist cornbread provides the ideal texture and flavor for stuffing that complements turkey or ham perfectly.
- 1 package (8.5 oz) Aunt Jemima Cornbread Mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Additional Stuffing Ingredients
These ingredients add moisture, texture, and classic stuffing elements that bring the dish together beautifully.
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium preferred for control over salt levels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- 2 large eggs (for binding the stuffing)
Seasonings and Herbs
For a perfectly seasoned cornbread stuffing, we combine aromatic herbs that bring warmth, depth, and that coveted holiday flavor.
| Seasoning | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust as per taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Adds classic stuffing spice |
| Sage | 1/2 teaspoon | Dried or fresh finely chopped |
| Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | Fresh thyme enhances aroma |
These Seasonings and Herbs infuse the Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing with authentic savory notes that elevate holiday meals to memorable experiences.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. We recommend gathering the following tools to streamline the process and ensure a delicious outcome.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | To combine the cornbread, vegetables, and seasonings thoroughly |
| Large Skillet | For sautéing celery and onions to bring out their flavor |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | To ensure precise measurements of liquids and spices |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | For stirring ingredients without mashing the cornbread |
| Baking Dish (9×13 inch) | For baking the stuffing evenly and achieving a golden crust |
| Knife and Cutting Board | To finely chop celery, onions, and fresh herbs |
| Oven Mitts | To safely handle hot dishes from the oven |
Key Equipment Notes
- Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned pan when sautéing vegetables to avoid sticking and uneven browning.
- A glass or ceramic baking dish ensures even heat distribution for consistent stuffing texture.
- Precise measuring tools guarantee balanced flavors and avoid sogginess or dryness in the stuffing.
Having these tools ready before starting will help us prepare the Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing efficiently and with confidence.
Prep Work
Before diving into mixing and baking, let’s get our Prep Work done efficiently. Proper preparation ensures a smooth cooking process and elevates the flavor of our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing.
Preparing the Cornbread
Using Aunt Jemima Cornbread as the base gives this stuffing its signature texture and taste. We start by baking the cornbread to the perfect consistency.
- Follow the package instructions precisely for the Aunt Jemima Cornbread Mix.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the cornbread mix with eggs, milk, and melted butter in a large bowl until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cornbread to cool completely on a wire rack—this prevents it from becoming soggy when mixed with other ingredients.
- After cooling, crumble the cornbread into coarse pieces. The ideal size is about 1 to 2 inch chunks to hold a perfect balance of moisture and texture in the stuffing.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | – | For even baking |
| Mix batter | – | 5 minutes | Use eggs, milk, butter as per package |
| Bake cornbread | 350°F (175°C) | 20–25 mins | Golden brown, toothpick test |
| Cool cornbread | Room Temp | 30 minutes | Prevents sogginess |
Chopping Vegetables and Herbs
The fresh vegetables and herbs add the savory depth to our cornbread stuffing. Chopping them to the right size is key for even cooking and balanced flavor.
- Dice 1 cup of celery finely. Celery adds a crisp freshness and texture contrast.
- Chop 1 cup of yellow onion into small, even pieces. Onions provide sweetness and aromatic layers.
- For herbs, finely chop 1 tablespoon each of fresh sage and thyme or measure equivalent dried herbs. These herbs infuse the stuffing with classic poultry seasoning flavors.
- Prepare garlic if the recipe calls for it by mincing 1 to 2 cloves finely.
- Keep all chopped ingredients in separate bowls so we can sauté them in order ensuring even flavor development.
Using even-sized, small pieces helps the vegetables and herbs soften uniformly during sautéing, giving our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing a perfectly balanced taste and texture.
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Celery | Finely diced | 1 cup | Adds crisp freshness |
| Yellow onion | Small diced | 1 cup | Provides sweetness |
| Fresh sage | Finely chopped | 1 tablespoon | Infuses aromatic poultry flavor |
| Fresh thyme | Finely chopped | 1 tablespoon | Adds earthy herbal notes |
| Garlic (optional) | Minced | 1-2 cloves | Adds depth and aroma |
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing that is moist, flavorful, and a showstopper on your holiday table.
Making the Cornbread Base
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Prepare the Aunt Jemima Cornbread Mix as directed on the package. Usually, this includes:
- Mixing 1 cup of cornbread mix, 1/3 cup milk, and 1 egg until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow the cornbread to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is critical to prevent sogginess later.
Cooking the Vegetable Mix
- Heat 4 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced 1 cup celery and 1 cup onion.
- Sauté vegetables for 8-10 minutes until tender and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in herbs and seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cook for another minute to allow the herbs to release their flavors.
Combining Ingredients
- Crumble the cooled cornbread into a large mixing bowl until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour the cooked vegetable mixture over the cornbread crumbs.
- Add 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth gradually, stirring gently:
- The stuffing should be moist but not soggy.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aunt Jemima Cornbread Mix | 1 cup | Base for the stuffing |
| Eggs | 1 | Bind ingredients |
| Milk | 1/3 cup | Adds moisture |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | For sautéing vegetables |
| Celery (diced) | 1 cup | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Onion (diced) | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Poultry seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Classic savory herb blend |
| Dried sage | 1/2 teaspoon | Earthy aroma and taste |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds subtle herbal notes |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 cup | Moistens the stuffing |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Balances and enhances flavor |
Baking the Stuffing
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time and enhance flavors, Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing can be prepared ahead of time with these simple steps. Planning ahead lets us focus on other holiday dishes while ensuring the stuffing turns out perfectly moist and flavorful.
Step 1: Prepare and Assemble the Stuffing
Follow the recipe instructions to prepare the cornbread base, sauté the vegetables, and combine all ingredients in the baking dish. After mixing, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Step 2: Refrigerate Overnight
Place the covered stuffing in the refrigerator. Allowing it to chill for 8 to 24 hours helps the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up slightly, which results in a more cohesive and moist stuffing after baking.
Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature
Remove the stuffing from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking. This step helps the dish bake evenly and prevents cold spots inside the stuffing.
Step 4: Baking Instructions for Make-Ahead Stuffing
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil used for storage, and cover the dish again with fresh foil to seal in moisture during baking. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until the stuffing is heated through and the top is golden brown.
| Step | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Assemble & Cover | After preparation | Prevents moisture loss and contamination |
| Refrigerate | 8 to 24 hours | Enhances flavor melding and texture |
| Room Temp | 30 minutes before baking | Ensures even baking |
| Baking Time | 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F | Heats stuffing thoroughly and crisps top |
Pro Tip: For a crispier surface, uncover the stuffing during the last 10 minutes of baking.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing is ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort while locking in rich, savory flavors.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing Recipe, pairing it with the right dishes elevates the entire meal. This savory, moist stuffing complements a variety of main courses and sides perfectly, enhancing the holiday feast experience.
Perfect Pairings
- Roasted Turkey: The classic companion. Our stuffing’s herby warmth balances the rich, juicy flavors of roasted turkey beautifully.
- Baked Ham: The subtle sweetness of ham contrasts wonderfully with the savory notes in the cornbread stuffing.
- Grilled Chicken: For a lighter option, the stuffing adds a comforting, hearty texture alongside tender grilled chicken.
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with steamed green beans, glazed carrots, or roasted Brussels sprouts to add color and freshness to your plate.
Serving Tips
- Spoon Generously: Use a large serving spoon to present a mound of stuffing. Its golden-brown top and moist inside create an inviting look.
- Add a Ladle of Gravy: Pour turkey or chicken gravy over the stuffing just before serving for extra flavor and moisture.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh sage or thyme on top to highlight the herbaceous notes in the stuffing.
- Serve Warm: This stuffing is best enjoyed hot from the oven or gently reheated to restore its perfect texture and aroma.
Complementary Drinks
| Beverage Type | Recommended Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wine | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir | Offers balanced acidity and fruitiness |
| Beer | Amber Ale, Brown Ale | Rich malts complement cornbread flavors |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling Apple Cider, Iced Tea | Refreshing balances savory and herby notes |
“Our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing shines brightest when it’s the center of a thoughtfully curated meal, creating memories around the table.”
Serving Quantities
| Number of Guests | Approximate Stuffing Amount (cups) |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 to 5 |
| 6 | 7 to 8 |
| 8 | 9 to 10 |
Planning to feed a crowd? It’s wise to prepare extra stuffing as it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing remains a flavorful, moist, and essential part of any holiday or family dinner spread.
Storage Tips
To keep our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to maintain taste and texture whether you’re storing leftovers or prepping ahead.
Cooling Before Storing
Always allow the stuffing to cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents condensation that can make the stuffing soggy and compromise its texture.
Refrigeration
Place the stuffing in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This timeframe ensures freshness and safety without sacrificing quality.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Use shallow containers to cool quickly |
| Covered baking dish | 3 to 4 days | Reheat covered to retain moisture |
Freezing for Longer Storage
For longer preservation, freeze the stuffing in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing.
| Freezing Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Cool stuffing | Let cool completely to room temperature |
| Portion | Divide into meal-sized portions |
| Package | Use airtight containers or freezer bags |
| Label | Include name and freezing date |
| Freeze | Store for up to 2 months |
Reheating Stored Stuffing
To reheat refrigerated or frozen stuffing, use these steps for optimal results:
- From refrigerator:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover stuffing with foil to lock in moisture.
- Bake for 20 – 25 minutes or until warm throughout.
- For a crispier top, remove foil during the last 5 minutes.
- From freezer:
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Follow the reheating instructions above.
Pro Tip
“For the best texture after storing, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating if the stuffing seems dry.”
By following these Storage Tips we ensure our Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing stays irresistibly moist and flavorful for every serving opportunity.
Conclusion
Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and flavor to any holiday table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe we can all master and enjoy year after year.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll create a stuffing that’s moist, savory, and perfectly seasoned. Whether served alongside turkey, ham, or your favorite main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing ideal for holiday meals?
Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing combines rich cornbread with savory herbs, offering a comforting, flavorful side dish that complements traditional holiday mains like turkey or ham. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation suit both novice and experienced cooks.
What are the key ingredients in Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing?
The main ingredients include Aunt Jemima corn bread mix, eggs, milk, butter, celery, onion, low-sodium chicken broth, and a blend of herbs and seasonings like sage, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare this stuffing?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, large non-stick skillet, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula, 9×13 inch baking dish, knife and cutting board, and oven mitts.
How do I prepare the cornbread for the stuffing?
Mix the cornbread ingredients, bake until golden, then cool completely before crumbling to avoid sogginess in the stuffing.
Can I prepare Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the stuffing in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake it later. Bring it to room temperature before baking and cover with foil to retain moisture.
How should I serve Aunt Jemima Cornbread Stuffing?
Serve warm alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs and offer gravy on the side. Pair it with complementary drinks like wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages.
What’s the best way to store leftover cornbread stuffing?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container or covered baking dish in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze properly wrapped and labeled.
How do I reheat leftover stuffing without drying it out?
Reheat in the oven covered with foil. Add a splash of chicken broth if the stuffing feels dry to keep it moist and flavorful.