I have so many fond memories of holiday gatherings, and one dish that always stood out was my aunt’s famous stuffing. Over the years, I’ve put my own spin on things, and this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing has become a family favorite.

The secret ingredient? A generous dose of love and a commitment to authentic flavors. This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a way to connect with family and create lasting memories around the table. It’s about savoring each bite and appreciating the simple joys of home cooking.

What makes this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing special is the way the savory bacon perfectly complements the sweetness of the cornbread. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds! Fellow flavor seekers, if you are looking for a way to bring authentic flavors to your family’s table, you’ve come to the right place.

Consider this your invitation to join my kitchen adventures! Together, we’ll create a Bacon Cornbread Stuffing recipe that will become a treasured part of your family’s traditions, too. Get ready to experience the magic of authentic flavors!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible Bacon Cornbread Stuffing:

1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled: For the best flavor in your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, I recommend sourcing thick-cut bacon from your local butcher.
1 large onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a delightful crunch and freshness.
1 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of freshness to the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.
1 teaspoon dried sage: This *Bacon Cornbread Stuffing* proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful spice choices, so be sure to source fresh herbs.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the sage and adds depth.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A must for that perfect little bite.
6 cups crumbled cornbread: You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing at your local bakery.
4 cups cubed day-old bread: Adds texture and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness to the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.
1/2 cup melted butter: This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
2 large eggs, beaten: Helps bind the stuffing together.
Salt to taste: Brings out all the delicious flavors.

Here’s an Bacon Cornbread Stuffing flavor secret that transformed our family dinners – using homemade cornbread! For the best Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, I recommend making the cornbread a day ahead so that it can dry out slightly. My family loves when I add a little bit of maple syrup to the cornbread for an extra touch of sweetness to our Bacon Cornbread Stuffing.

Let’s Create This Together!

Ready to dive into the magic? Let’s get started on this amazing Bacon Cornbread Stuffing, step-by-step.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a large baking dish. In my kitchen, this flavorful Bacon Cornbread Stuffing typically takes about 45-50 minutes to bake.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Trust me, this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! Crumble the bacon and set aside.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet with the bacon grease. Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Bacon Cornbread Stuffing – learn from my experience! Sautéing the onions and celery in bacon grease infuses the stuffing with even more flavor.
In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cubed day-old bread, cooked onion and celery mixture, parsley, sage, thyme, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread mixture and stir gently until everything is evenly moistened. Don’t be surprised if your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing develops a beautiful golden-brown crust as it bakes.
Stir in the crumbled bacon. Ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the stuffing. This flavorful Bacon Cornbread Stuffing reminds me of another family favorite, potato soup with crispy bacon bits – the smoky flavor is just irresistible!
Pour the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. While your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through. Your Bacon Cornbread Stuffing should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
Let the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.

That’s it! You’ve now created a Bacon Cornbread Stuffing that will surely be a hit at any gathering. I hope you enjoyed this cooking journey as much as I did!

How We Love to Enjoy This!

This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a staple at our holiday gatherings, but we also love it year-round!

We often serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken. The savory stuffing perfectly complements the richness of the meat. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Bacon Cornbread Stuffing appears with our famous roasted chicken.

It’s also fantastic with a simple green salad. The fresh, crisp greens provide a lovely contrast to the warm, hearty stuffing. This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!

For a festive touch, try adding dried cranberries or chopped apples to the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing. These additions bring a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully. One year, I even experimented with a Bacon Apple Cranberry Cornbread Stuffing Recipe | Savory Sweet Life, and it was a huge hit!

Leftovers? No problem! This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is amazing when reheated. We also love using it in breakfast casseroles or as a base for turkey sandwiches.

During the fall, we sometimes add butternut squash or pumpkin to the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing. It adds a lovely seasonal touch and a boost of nutrients.

I’ve even had guests rave about how delicious this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is on its own! My picky nephew, who usually avoids vegetables, always asks for a second helping. The love I put into this authentic, flavorful Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is what makes it so delicious.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the perfect Bacon Cornbread Stuffing:

1. Does this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing really satisfy hearty appetites?
Absolutely! The combination of cornbread, bacon, and savory herbs makes it incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

2. What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
You can easily adjust the amount of sage and thyme to suit their preferences. You could also add a touch of brown sugar to sweeten it slightly.

3. How can I prepare this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing ahead for busy weeks?
You can assemble the stuffing a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

4. Can I make this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. This flavorful Bacon Cornbread Stuffing reminds me of another family favorite, turkey crockpot stuffing.

5. Is it possible to freeze this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

6. What kind of bread works best for this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
I recommend using day-old bread that is slightly stale. This will help it absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.

7. How do I keep the Bacon Cornbread Stuffing from drying out?
Make sure to cover it with foil during the first half of baking. This will help retain moisture. You can also add a little more chicken broth if it seems too dry.

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing has become a cherished part of our family meals because it embodies the spirit of home cooking: simple, nourishing, and full of love. It’s a dish that brings us together and creates lasting memories.

My Bacon Cornbread Stuffing Flavor Secrets:

Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a world of difference in the final flavor. Sourcing local bacon and fresh herbs elevates the dish.
Bacon Grease: Don’t discard that bacon grease! Sautéing the onions and celery in it adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
Homemade Cornbread: Making your own cornbread, even a day ahead, allows you to control the sweetness and texture, creating a perfect base for the stuffing.

Here are some family-tested variations for this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing:

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a kick.
Sweet and Savory: Include dried cranberries and chopped apples for a touch of sweetness.
Mushroom Lovers: Sauté some mushrooms with the onions and celery for an earthy flavor. This flavorful Bacon Cornbread Stuffing reminds me of another family favorite, cornbread casserole.

My husband loves the spicy version, while my kids prefer the sweet and savory one. I encourage you to experiment and find the perfect flavor profile that your family will love. I recently tried a Bacon Parmesan Cornbread Stuffing – On Ty’s Plate and it was a great experience.

Remember, the best dishes are those made with love and shared with family. I hope you enjoy creating this Bacon Cornbread Stuffing as much as I do. If you are looking for another version, you might consider trying the Cornbread Stuffing with Bacon | So Much Food.

Happy cooking, fellow flavor seekers! May your kitchen be filled with the warmth of authentic flavors and the joy of family. This savory stuffing is a wonderful addition to any meal.

Bacon Cornbread Stuffing

Print Recipe

This Bacon Cornbread Stuffing is a savory twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish. Crispy bacon and hearty cornbread combine for a flavorful and satisfying addition to your holiday feast.

Author: Savannah Rose
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound bacon, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 teaspoon dried sage
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (14.75 ounce) can creamed corn
1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
1 (8.5 ounce) package cornbread mix, prepared according to package directions
6 cups cubed bread (stale is best)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup melted butter

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving bacon grease in the skillet.
Add onion and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in sage, thyme, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked bacon, onion mixture, creamed corn, drained corn, crumbled cornbread, and cubed bread.
Pour chicken broth and melted butter over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add toasted pecans or walnuts to the stuffing before baking.