Gluten-Free Cornbread Stuffing: Ultimate Holiday Recipe

Craving that classic holiday flavor without the gluten? This gluten-free cornbread stuffing recipe brings all the savory, herb-filled goodness you love to your Thanksgiving table. 

Made with crumbled cornbread, aromatic vegetables, and sliced Chomps beef sticks, this gluten-free cornbread stuffing recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy edges and moist, flavorful centers. Whether you're serving gluten-free party foods or planning your complete holiday menu, eating something like this Thanksgiving dish proves dietary restrictions don't mean sacrificing tradition or taste.

Ingredients

3/4 Stick of Butter
3 cups Chopped Sweet Onions
2 Cup chopped Celery
3/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
2 Tbsp minced Saged
2 cups Chicken broth
2 sliced Sea Salt Beef Chomps
7 cups of left out day-old/stale cornbread

How to Make Gluten-Free Cornbread Stuffing

The perfect gluten-free cornbread stuffing recipe starts with properly dried cornbread and fresh aromatics. Follow these simple steps for a dish that rivals any traditional version.

1. Preheat the oven to 375ºF

2. Melt 1 Tbsp of Butter over medium heat.

3. Add the chopped onion, celery, Chomps sticks (sliced), salt and pepper.
   Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the onion and celery is lightly softened.

4. Transfer the onion and celery to a bowl. Crumble the cornbread into the same bowl along with the minced sage and mix all contents so ingredients are well combined.

5. In the same skillet melt 2 additional Tbsp of butter just to melt it, then pour over the cornbread mixture in the bowl and mix in.

6. Slowly add the chicken broth and mix into the cornbread stuffing.

7. Transfer the cornbread stuffing to a lightly greased 8x8 glass casserole dish. Add small droplets of the remaining butter, the size of peas, all over the top of the stuffing. Sprinkle with additional salt & pepper.

8. Bake until crispy, about 45-50 minutes.

If you’re enjoying this gluten-free cornbread dressing, be sure to check out our Low-carb Thanksgiving stuffing for a healthier twist on a classic favorite! Pair it with your favorite Thanksgiving appetizers, like a beautiful Thanksgiving cheese board, for a complete holiday spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cornbread stuffing gluten free?

Traditional cornbread stuffing isn't always gluten-free, as many recipes use wheat-based cornbread or add regular bread cubes to the mix. However, when you make gluten-free cornbread stuffing using 100% gluten-free cornbread as the base, it can absolutely be gluten-free.

The key is ensuring all your ingredients, including the cornbread, broth, and any seasonings, are certified gluten-free. This gluten-free cornbread dressing recipe uses only gluten-free ingredients, making it safe for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Does gluten-free bread work for stuffing?

Yes, it works wonderfully as gluten-free cornbread dressing when prepared correctly. The secret is properly drying it out first, which prevents mushiness and helps it absorb the broth and seasonings.

Gluten-free cornbread is an excellent choice because it naturally has great texture and flavor. You can also experiment with other gluten-free breads, though cornbread tends to give the most authentic Southern-style results. Adding high-quality protein like beef jerky or turkey jerky can boost both nutrition and flavor.

How to dry gluten-free bread for stuffing in the oven?

To dry GF cornbread stuffing base in the oven, cube your gluten-free cornbread and spread the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake at 325°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bread is dried out and lightly toasted.

This process removes excess moisture and creates the perfect texture for absorbing your broth mixture without becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can leave the cubed cornbread uncovered at room temperature for 24 hours to air-dry.

Can you make cornbread stuffing ahead?

Absolutely! You can prepare this gluten-free cornbread dressing up to two days in advance. Assemble the entire recipe, then cover tightly and refrigerate. 

When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time if needed. You can also freeze the unbaked stuffing for up to one month (just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking). This makes it perfect for stress-free holiday appetizers planning.

What is the difference between cornbread stuffing and dressing?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but traditionally, stuffing refers to the mixture cooked inside the turkey cavity, while dressing is baked separately in a dish. This gluten-free cornbread stuffing recipe is technically a dressing since it's baked in a casserole dish, which is actually the safer and more practical preparation method.

Regional preferences also play a role. Southerners typically might say gluten-free cornbread dressing while Northerners prefer stuffing. Regardless of what you call it, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors you crave!