Bacon Cornbread Stuffing
Meat Cornbread Stuffing
Why Make This Recipe
Meat Cornbread Stuffing is a comforting and flavorful dish that adds a savory twist to any meal. The combination of seasoned meat and sweet cornbread creates a delightful texture, while fresh herbs enhance the overall taste. This stuffing is perfect for holiday gatherings, particularly Thanksgiving, but it’s delicious enough to enjoy any time of the year. It’s easy to prepare and will surely impress your family and friends.
How to Make Meat Cornbread Stuffing
Ingredients:
- Cornbread (One 9×13 inch pan)
- 12 ounces ground meat (ground beef, turkey, pork, or sausage)
- 2 large onions (chopped)
- 4 stalks celery (including some leaves, about 2 1/2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 2 & 1/2 cups turkey stock (or chicken stock, plus more)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 4 tablespoons cold butter (chopped)
Directions:
- Tear the cornbread into bite-sized chunks and spread them out on two large baking sheets. Let the cornbread sit uncovered overnight or for several hours.
- Bake the two pans of cornbread at 400 degrees F for about 10 minutes. Flip the pieces if necessary and bake a little longer if they are not dried out. Return the cornbread to the turned-off oven to keep drying while you prepare the rest.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove the meat and place it on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving any rendered fat in the pan. If there’s insufficient fat, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil or butter.
- Chop 2 onions and 4 stalks of celery, including some leaves for extra flavor. Heat the fat (or oil/butter) over medium heat until shimmery. Add the onions and celery, and sauté for about 10 minutes until the onions are translucent and the celery soft. Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and pepper to taste.
- Add 2 tablespoons fresh sage and 2 teaspoons fresh thyme to the mixture and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
- In a very large bowl, add the dried cornbread. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scrape the onion and celery mixture into the bowl and return the pan to heat.
- Add 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar to the empty pan and cook over medium heat, scraping the brown bits off the bottom until nearly evaporated. Add 1 stick of butter and melt completely, then pour it over the cornbread mixture and scrape the pan well.
- In a glass measuring cup, whisk together 2 & 1/2 cups turkey stock and 2 eggs, then season with 1 & 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Slowly pour this mixture over the cornbread, stirring gently to avoid breaking it apart. Add more stock if necessary to ensure the cornbread is rehydrated.
- Add the cooked ground meat back to the mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Grease a 9×13 inch pan and spread the stuffing mixture evenly. Top with 4 tablespoons of chopped cold butter.
- Spray a sheet of foil with nonstick spray and cover the stuffing, sealing the edges. Bake at 350 for about 30 minutes, until warmed throughout.
- Raise the oven temperature to 450 degrees F, remove the foil, and bake for another 20 minutes or so until the top is crispy without burning. The edges should also be crispy.
- Serve with turkey, gravy, and mashed potatoes!
How to Serve Meat Cornbread Stuffing
Meat Cornbread Stuffing is best served warm alongside your main dishes, especially turkey and gravy during holiday meals. Scoop generous portions onto each plate and pair it with your favorite sides. It also makes a tasty leftover meal on its own!
How to Store Meat Cornbread Stuffing
To store leftover stuffing, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Meat Cornbread Stuffing
- Ensure your cornbread is adequately dried out before mixing; this helps it absorb the flavors better.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more herbs or spices if desired.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Choose your meat based on preference: ground turkey for lighter flavor, ground beef for richness, or Italian sausage for extra seasoning.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other ingredients such as different types of cooked meat, diced apples for sweetness, or even different types of herbs for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cornbread? Yes, store-bought cornbread can work well, just ensure it’s well dried out.
How can I prepare this stuffing in advance? You can prepare the stuffing up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it overnight.
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the meat and use vegetable stock instead of turkey stock.
What can I substitute for fresh herbs? You can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms add nice flavors and textures.
How do I know when the stuffing is done baking? It should be heated through and the top should be golden brown and crispy.
Is it safe to reheat leftovers? Yes, just reheat until it’s steaming hot throughout.
Can I freeze the stuffing before baking it? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What is the best way to reheat frozen stuffing? Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.
What type of ground meat works best? Ground turkey, beef, pork, or Italian sausage all work well. Choose based on your flavor preference and dietary needs.
This mouthwatering Meat Cornbread Stuffing is sure to become a favorite tradition at your table! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones.
