Skillet Cornbread: Easy Homemade Recipe for a Perfect Side Dish

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Skillet cornbread is a Southern staple that brings comfort and taste to any meal. Whether you like it sweet or savory, this classic dish is easy to make and only needs a few basic ingredients.

You can make moist and crispy cornbread right at home with just a cast iron skillet. By using buttermilk and cornmeal, you’ll get that authentic flavor that’s perfect for soups, chili, or just by itself. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all levels.

Dive into this guide and you’ll find everything you need to make the perfect skillet cornbread. You’ll be proud to serve this delightful side dish to family and friends. Enjoy!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Cornmeal

• Standard: Yellow or white cornmeal.
• Substitute: Blue cornmeal or polenta.

Flour

• Standard: All-purpose flour.
• Substitute: Whole wheat flour (for a denser texture) or gluten-free flour blend.

Sugar

• Standard: Granulated sugar.
• Substitute: Honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative like Stevia.

Baking Powder

• Standard: Baking powder, to help it rise.
• Substitute: Mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar.

Salt

• Standard: Table salt.
• Substitute: Sea salt or kosher salt.

Egg

• Standard: 1 large egg.
• Substitute: Flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Milk

• Standard: Whole milk or 2%.
• Substitute: Buttermilk (adds a tangy flavor), almond milk, or soy milk.

Fat

• Standard: Melted butter.
• Substitute: Vegetable oil, coconut oil, or bacon grease (for added flavor).

Optional Add-ins

• Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Corn Kernels: Fresh or frozen.
• Herbs: Chopped jalapeños, green onions, or herbs like cilantro.

Mixing these ingredients correctly will give you delicious skillet cornbread every time.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (or the temperature stated in your recipe).
   • Place your cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
   • Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed.

3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:

   • In a smaller bowl, whisk together buttermilk, milk, and an egg.
   • Stir until everything is combined.
   • Add baking soda to this mixture and stir again.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

   • Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
   • Pour the wet ingredients into this well.
   • Stir everything together until just combined.

5. Prepare the Skillet:

   • Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts.
   • Add butter to the skillet and let it melt, coating the bottom and sides.

6. Pour and Bake:

   • Pour your mixed batter into the hot, buttered skillet.
   • Place the skillet back in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Serve:

   • Allow your cornbread to cool for a few minutes.
   • Slice and serve warm. Enjoy!