There’s something undeniably cozy about the smell of baking stuffing wafting through the house, don’t you think? Every holiday season, my family and I whip up this **Juicy Mouthwatering Bacon Cornbread Stuffing** that seems to dance together with the aroma of turkey roasting in the oven. It’s a recipe that brings everyone to the table, and I can’t help but smile every time I see my loved ones devour it. There’s just a special magic about this stuffing, and trust me – once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to for celebrations!
Let me tell you a little secret: the crispy bacon, paired with the slightly sweet cornbread, creates this incredible fusion of flavors and textures. I still remember the first time I made it. I was a bit nervous, thinking I’d ruin a classic holiday dish, but oh boy was I wrong! The moment I served it, my family fell silent as they took their first bites—just pure joy on their faces. And all it took was my love for cooking and a little bit of magic in the kitchen! Let’s get into what makes this stuffing so special, shall we?
What’s in Juicy Mouthwatering Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
Cornbread: The foundation of the stuffing! You can use homemade or store-bought, but I really recommend using a good quality, slightly sweet cornbread to add depth to the dish.
Bacon: Ah, the star of the show! Six crispy strips bring that smokiness and savory crunch to the stuffing that you simply can’t resist.
Onion: A medium, diced onion gives a lovely sweetness and depth when sautéed, helping to lift the flavors.
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic wrap everything in an aromatic embrace. It’s a must for flavor.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: A cup of broth adds moisture and richness that’s crucial for that perfect stuffing texture.
Fresh Parsley: A quarter cup of this vibrant herb gives a pop of color and fresh flavor to contrast with the richness of everything else.
Eggs: Two beaten eggs work as a binder, making everything stick together beautifully.
Dried Thyme: Just a teaspoon of dried thyme brings an earthy, herbal note that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Salt and Black Pepper: A little seasoning goes a long way to ensure all those flavors shine through.
Unsalted Butter: Two tablespoons of melted butter drizzled over the top creates a beautifully golden crust and adds to the overall richness.
Is Juicy Mouthwatering Bacon Cornbread Stuffing Good for You?
Is it a guilty pleasure? You bet! This stuffing is undeniably delicious. Let’s break down the health aspects:
Cornbread: It’s loaded with carbohydrates, which can be a good source of energy, but be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your carb intake.
Bacon: While it’s rich in flavor and adds protein, remember that bacon does bring in saturated fats. Enjoying it in moderation during the holidays is key!
Onion and Garlic: Both are full of antioxidants and may boost your immune system. They also add great flavor without packing in extra calories.
Parsley: This fresh herb is low-calorie and adds vitamins C and K to the mix.
Broth: Opting for low-sodium broth can keep the dish heart-healthier.
In short, it’s a treat to enjoy during festive seasons. Just be mindful of your servings if you’re trying to balance health and joy!
Ingredients
– 8 cups cornbread, crumbled (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 strips of bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
*Makes about 8 servings.*
How to Make Juicy Mouthwatering Bacon Cornbread Stuffing?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Just trust me; you want that cozy oven heat.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. As it cooks, you’ll start to daydream about the bliss to come.
3. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it and place it on a paper towel to drain, but keep that bacon fat in the skillet—oh yeah!
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté in the bacon fat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it smells AMAZING.
5. In a big mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, sautéed onion, garlic, cooked bacon, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix! Trust me, it’s an ingredient-heavy party in there.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the broth and beaten eggs. Pour this glorious mixture over the cornbread mix and stir until everything is well combined.
7. Transfer this magical stuffing mixture to a greased rustic glass dish. Last but not least, drizzle that melted butter on top for a final touch of deliciousness.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and the stuffing is heated through.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me; your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Serving Suggestions and More
Serve this stuffing alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a truly festive meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some sautéed celery or bell peppers for an extra flavor punch and delightful texture. This stuffing is versatile—try it with a side of cranberry sauce for that sweet-tart contrast!
I can’t wait for you to dive into this delicious journey with my **Juicy Mouthwatering Bacon Cornbread Stuffing**. I promise it will be a hit at your table, just like it is at mine. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
