A Southern Classic with a Seafood Twist
Chef Kolby Kash’s Seafood Dressing is a mouthwatering twist on the classic Southern dish, taking it to new heights with the fresh, delicate flavors of seafood. This dressing combines the richness of crab and shrimp with the hearty comfort of traditional cornbread dressing, creating a luxurious and unforgettable side dish that will become the centerpiece of any holiday table or Sunday family meal.
Seafood dressing, often known in some circles as “Seafood Stuffing,” has roots deeply embedded in Southern and coastal cuisine, where fresh seafood was abundant. For many Black families, the dish became a tradition during special occasions, particularly around Thanksgiving and Christmas. With its unique blend of savory and sweet flavors, it’s easy to see why this dish has stood the test of time and evolved in so many different households. Chef Kolby Kash’s version brings a fresh twist to this Southern classic, blending traditional flavors with a modern touch that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- Cornbread
- Onion
- Celery
- Bell Pepper
- Garlic
- Shrimp
- Crabmeat
- Cream of Chicken Soup
- Seafood Stock
- Egg
- Unsalted Butter
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sage
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Paprika
- Parsley
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Bayou City Seasonings
Directions:
Prepare the Cornbread
Start by making the cornbread if you haven’t already prepared it. Crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl. You want to ensure the pieces are small enough to absorb the other flavors but not too fine that it becomes a powder. Set the crumbled cornbread aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the delicious dish you’re about to create.
Prepare the Seafood
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and crab meat. Season with Old Bay seasoning, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook the seafood for 3-4 minutes, just until the shrimp turns pink and the crab meat is heated through. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the sautéed vegetables and seafood to the crumbled cornbread. Stir in the chicken broth, beaten eggs, and heavy cream. The broth will help bind the ingredients, while the cream adds a luxurious richness. Mix everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top. For a golden, crispy top, bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dressing is firm and slightly browned on top.
Garnish and Serve
Once the seafood dressing is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this dish alongside your favorite main courses and watch as it becomes a favorite at the dinner table.
About The Creator
Chef Kolby Kash is a talented culinary artist with a passion for creating bold, flavorful dishes inspired by Southern and seafood cuisine. Known for his creative takes on classic comfort food, Chef Kash elevates traditional recipes with fresh ingredients and a modern twist. Follow Chef Kolby Kash on Instagram @chefkolbykash check out the full recipe at kolbykash.com.