Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or snack that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than cornbread! This classic American recipe has been a staple in many households for generations, and its versatility knows no bounds. From sweet and savory to spicy and smoky, there’s a type of cornbread out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious easy cornbread recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish to pair with your favorite chili or a tasty snack to munch on while watching the game, these recipes have got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and baking sheet, and let’s get started on this cornbread adventure!
Classic Southern Skillet Cornbread
Classic Southern Skillet Cornbread Recipe
This recipe yields a crispy, golden-brown cornbread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite comfort foods. With its rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crumb, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
- Pour in the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the preheated skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Butter Glazed Cornbread
This recipe combines the classic comfort of cornbread with the richness of honey butter, creating a sweet and savory treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Drizzle honey over the top of the batter in a zigzag pattern.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread combines the warmth of jalapeños with the richness of cheddar cheese, perfect for a snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, buttermilk, and diced jalapeños.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Maple Cornbread Muffins
Sweet Maple Cornbread Muffins Recipe
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the warmth of sweet maple syrup with the comfort of classic cornbread, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Honey or brown sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, sweetened condensed milk, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Savory Bacon and Chive Cornbread
A moist and flavorful cornbread infused with the richness of crispy bacon and the subtle oniony flavor of chives, perfect for a comforting side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 2 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Honey or maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and melted butter. Add crumbled bacon and chopped chives; stir until combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Herb Cornbread
This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite meals or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and black pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, parsley, and 1/2 of the cheddar cheese.
4. Add egg, buttermilk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Buttermilk Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals, without the worry of gluten contamination. With its subtle sweetness and tangy buttermilk flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk (see notes)
- 1 large egg
- Fresh or dried herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, almond flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes: For buttermilk, substitute 1 cup of regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle and thicken.
Cornbread with Creamed Corn and Green Chilies
Elevate your cornbread game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of creamed corn, the heat of green chilies, and the warmth of a crispy crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup creamed corn
– 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add creamed corn and diced green chilies to the wet ingredients; stir until combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Cornbread
This moist and flavorful cornbread combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a brunch or as a side dish. The subtle tanginess of buttermilk adds depth to this sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, blueberries, and lemon juice.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
This recipe combines the warmth of sausage with the crunch of apples and the comfort of cornbread, creating a unique and delicious stuffing perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in apple, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, crumbled cornbread, and chicken broth. Mix until bread is evenly coated.
6. Transfer stuffing to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy cornbread pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. The combination of warm spices and sweet syrup will become your new breakfast obsession.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Waffles with Spicy Honey Drizzle
Cornbread Waffles with Spicy Honey Drizzle Recipe
Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef
A comforting twist on traditional cornbread, this casserole combines the flavors of ground beef, corn, and creamy sauce with a crispy cornbread topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, milk, cream of mushroom soup, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Mix cornbread mix with melted butter and spread evenly over top of casserole.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Muffins with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the warmth of cornbread with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cornbread with Roasted Red Peppers and Feta
This sweet and savory cornbread is elevated by the smoky flavor of roasted red peppers and the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese. Perfect as a side dish or topped with a fried egg for breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 roasted red peppers, diced (see note)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the roasted red peppers and feta cheese to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To roast red peppers, place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast at 400°F for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred. Peel off skin and dice the flesh.
Cornbread Pudding with Vanilla and Cinnamon
Warm and comforting, this Cornbread Pudding with Vanilla and Cinnamon is a perfect treat on a chilly day. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of cornbread with the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread and stir until it’s evenly coated with the wet ingredients.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the cornbread to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Croutons for Soups and Salads
Elevate your soups and salads with the warm, buttery flavor of cornbread croutons. This easy recipe transforms leftover cornbread into crispy, flavorful bits that add texture and depth to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed leftover cornbread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cubed cornbread and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add the salt and garlic powder (if using); stir to combine.
4. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread with Caramelized Onions and Thyme
Elevate your cornbread game with the rich flavors of caramelized onions, fresh thyme, and a hint of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in caramelized onions and chopped thyme.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion over low heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 30 minutes).
Cornbread with Dried Cranberries and Pecans
Elevate your cornbread game with the addition of sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans. This recipe combines the classic Southern staple with a hint of fruitiness and nutty goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread with Smoked Gouda and Rosemary
Elevate your cornbread game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked Gouda cheese and the earthy notes of rosemary.
Cornbread with Smoked Gouda and Rosemary
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup crumbled smoked Gouda cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, milk, smoked Gouda cheese, and rosemary leaves. Stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of cornbread delights! This collection of 20 delicious and easy recipes offers something for every occasion. From classic Southern skillet cornbread to savory bacon and chive, sweet maple muffins to spicy honey drizzle waffles, there’s a recipe to suit your taste buds. Try adding dried cranberries and pecans for a sweet twist or smoked Gouda and rosemary for a savory kick. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a unique breakfast option, these cornbread recipes are sure to please.
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.
