When it comes to comforting, indulgent breakfast or brunch dishes, few options can rival the humble corn meal mush. This creamy, cheesy delight is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason – it’s ridiculously easy to make and packs a big flavor punch. But why settle for just one way of making corn meal mush when you can try 18 different variations? From sweet and maple-syrup-topped to savory and cheese-stuffed, we’ve got the ultimate guide to taking your corn meal mush game to the next level.
Southern-Style Corn Meal Mush with Butter
This recipe brings back memories of warm, comforting mornings on the porch or cozy nights by the fireplace. Our Southern-Style Corn Meal Mush with Butter is a simple and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cornmeal, water, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mush has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Southern-Style Corn Meal Mush with Butter!
Sweet Corn Meal Mush with Maple Syrup
A warm and comforting breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of cornmeal with the richness of maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until mixture thickens and comes away from sides of pan.
3. Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, melted butter, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour into individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory Corn Meal Mush with Cheese and Herbs
A comforting twist on traditional mush, this recipe combines the warmth of cornmeal with the richness of cheese and a hint of herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter, cheese, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Corn Meal Mush with Jalapeños
A flavorful twist on traditional cornmeal mush, this recipe adds a spicy kick from jalapeños and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to medium.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and butter until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Sautéed Mushrooms
A comforting and flavorful side dish that combines the warmth of corn meal mush with the earthy sweetness of sautéed mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cornmeal
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes away from sides of pan.
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
3. In a separate skillet, sauté onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm corn meal mush topped with sautéed mushroom mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Bacon and Scallions
This simple recipe combines the comforting warmth of cornmeal mush with the savory flavors of crispy bacon and fresh scallions. Perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy consistency.
3. While the mush is cooking, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
4. Add the chopped scallions to the skillet with the cooked bacon and stir to combine.
5. Once the mush is ready, add it to the skillet with the bacon and scallion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Fresh Berries and Honey
Start your day off right with this sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that combines the warmth of cornmeal mush with the natural sweetness of fresh berries and a drizzle of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and salt.
2. Gradually add in water, whisking until smooth.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in melted butter.
5. Serve warm mush topped with fresh berries and drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
This hearty side dish combines the comforting flavors of roasted garlic and parmesan with the creamy texture of corn meal mush.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see note), mashed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water.
2. Add the melted butter, mashed garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender. Let cool before peeling and mashing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Caramelized Onions
This classic Southern dish is a comforting and flavorful breakfast or brunch option. The caramelized onions add a depth of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory corn meal mush.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Stir in the salt and butter until melted.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions by cooking them in a large skillet over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and sweet.
4. Add the brown sugar to the caramelized onions and stir to combine.
5. Serve the corn meal mush warm, topped with the caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Sausage and Peppers
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the warmth of sausage and peppers with the creamy texture of corn meal mush. Perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mush thickens.
3. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked sausage mixture with the corn meal mush.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Spinach and Feta
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the comforting warmth of cornmeal mush with the tanginess of feta cheese and the earthy goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter, chopped spinach, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Shredded Chicken and Salsa
This comforting recipe combines the warmth of cornmeal mush with the savory flavors of shredded chicken and tangy salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying breakfast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup salsa
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Add butter and stir until melted.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded chicken and salsa.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
Warm Up with a Classic: Corn Meal Mush with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
This comforting side dish is a staple of many Southern households. With the added warmth of cinnamon and sweetness of brown sugar, it’s a perfect accompaniment to your favorite breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and 1 cup of the water until smooth.
2. Add the remaining 1 cup water, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mush has thickened.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a pat of butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Fried Eggs and Hot Sauce
This hearty breakfast dish combines creamy cornmeal mush with crispy fried eggs, a kick of hot sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and creamy (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, fry eggs in a non-stick skillet with a small amount of oil or cooking spray until cooked through.
4. To assemble, place fried eggs on top of the cornmeal mush, then add a dash or two of hot sauce to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Grilled Shrimp and Lime
A warm and comforting twist on traditional mush, this recipe combines the sweetness of cornmeal with the zesty flavor of grilled shrimp and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and salt.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush shrimp with olive oil and season with lime juice. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve grilled shrimp on top of warm cornmeal mush, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Pulled Pork and BBQ Sauce
This classic recipe combines the comforting warmth of cornmeal mush with the rich flavors of pulled pork and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a cozy evening or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound cooked pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Optional: chopped scallions and diced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, salt, and butter until smooth.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in pulled pork and BBQ sauce until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and diced bell peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Stewed Tomatoes and Basil
A comforting, flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cornmeal mush with the brightness of stewed tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups stewed tomatoes (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine cornmeal and water. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and pulls away from sides of pan (about 10 minutes).
2. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the cornmeal mush. Stir until butter is melted and onion is translucent.
3. Stir in stewed tomatoes and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Meal Mush with Coconut Milk and Mango
This sweet and savory dish is a unique twist on traditional cornmeal mush, adding the richness of coconut milk and the tropical flavor of mango. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
3. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut and cook for an additional minute.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the coconut milk, mango, honey, and salt until well combined.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional diced mango if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a deliciously simple breakfast treat! This article features 18 creamy cornmeal mush recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From sweet options like maple syrup and fresh berries, to savory dishes like cheese and herbs or bacon and scallions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, smoky, or comforting, these cornmeal mush recipes have got you covered.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
