Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

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Warm, golden, and perfectly crumbly, this Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe is the heart and soul of comfort food. Whether served alongside a bowl of chili or a plate of slow-cooked greens, it’s one of those dishes that tastes like home. With its rustic edges and tender, buttery center, every bite of this cornbread carries the legacy of Southern kitchens passed down through generations.

What makes this cornbread special is its simplicity. No sugar, no frills—just old-fashioned ingredients and a hot skillet. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the table, and when it comes out of the oven sizzling, there’s no resisting cutting that first warm slice. This is the kind of recipe you bookmark forever.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

This cornbread is rich in flavor and texture without being heavy. It gets its signature crunch from being baked in a sizzling cast-iron skillet, and the inside stays soft and moist thanks to buttermilk and a perfect blend of cornmeal. It’s the ideal companion for hearty stews, barbecue ribs, or even a drizzle of honey if you’re feeling a little sweet.

This recipe is also extremely reliable and forgiving, perfect for seasoned cooks and beginners alike. In under 30 minutes, you can have a freshly baked cornbread on your table with minimal cleanup.

What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?

For authentic Southern flavor and texture, stone-ground yellow cornmeal is the traditional choice. It offers a robust corn flavor and slightly gritty texture that really makes this recipe shine. Avoid cornmeal mixes that include added sugar or flour—we’re keeping it pure and simple. If you can find locally milled cornmeal, even better. The freshness adds another level of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients for the Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

A Southern cornbread recipe doesn’t ask for much, but every ingredient plays a critical role. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Cornmeal – The base of the recipe, this gives cornbread its hearty texture and authentic flavor.

All-purpose flour – A touch of flour helps hold the bread together and adds tenderness.

Baking powder – This lifts the cornbread, giving it a light crumb without making it cakey.

Salt – Brings out the flavor and balances the richness.

Buttermilk – Adds a tangy depth and moistens the crumb beautifully.

Egg – Binds everything together and contributes to the structure.

Butter – Gives the bread a rich taste and that perfect crust when poured into the hot skillet.

Bacon grease or additional butter (for greasing skillet) – Traditional Southern cooks use bacon grease to coat the skillet, giving a smoky layer of flavor and ensuring a crisp crust.

How To Make the Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Skillet

Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F. The hot skillet is key for that golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together to evenly distribute everything.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Slowly pour in the melted butter while whisking to combine.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 5: Prep the Skillet

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and coat it with bacon grease or melted butter. Swirl to coat the bottom and sides.

Step 6: Bake the Cornbread

Pour the batter into the hot skillet. It should sizzle slightly as it hits the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the edges pull away from the sides. A toothpick in the center should come out clean.

How to Serve and Store Classic Southern Cornbread

Classic Southern cornbread is best served warm, straight from the skillet. Slice it into wedges and pair it with soups, stews, or even as a base for cornbread dressing. It feeds about 6 to 8 people generously, depending on portion size.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

What to Serve With Classic Southern Cornbread?

Hearty Beef Chili

The perfect pairing for cornbread, chili brings out its savory side.

Collard Greens

Spoon your greens and potlikker over a wedge of cornbread for a true Southern experience.

Fried Chicken

Crunchy, juicy fried chicken and warm cornbread are a Southern comfort duo.

Barbecue Ribs

Sticky, smoky ribs meet their match in this crumbly, golden bread.

Honey Butter

Whip up some honey and butter to slather over hot slices.

Chicken and Dumplings

A cozy, hearty main dish that welcomes cornbread on the side.

Pinto Beans

Simple, satisfying, and extra delicious when spooned over warm cornbread.

Buttermilk Soup

A lesser-known pairing, but surprisingly complementary to the tang in the bread.

Want More Bread Ideas with Southern Flair?

If you love this Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe, you might enjoy trying out some of these flavorful favorites:

• Easy Homemade Naan Bread with a fluffy, charred finish.
• Tennessee Onions if you want a cheesy baked side dish that complements cornbread.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe for a surprisingly good Southern-inspired dinner.
• Southern Cornbread Poppers for a bite-sized twist on the classic.
• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a decadent dessert to end your Southern-style meal.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make it again anytime you crave authentic comfort food.

And I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add jalapeños or cheese? Do you swear by bacon grease or skip it?

Sharing your version helps others and adds to our kitchen wisdom. Drop a comment or question below!

Explore more soul-warming Southern recipes and delightful homemade breads on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find inspiration for every meal.

Conclusion

Nothing beats the simple satisfaction of homemade cornbread hot from the skillet. This Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe stays true to tradition, using time-tested techniques and ingredients that highlight real flavor. Whether served for a casual family dinner or a holiday table, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Grab your cast-iron and make a batch—your taste buds will thank you.

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