Simple Skillet Cornbread Recipe 🌽🥓
Nothing beats the comforting simplicity of a perfectly baked cornbread, especially when it’s made in a skillet to achieve that deliciously crispy crust. This recipe is a classic, delivering a moist and tender interior while the outer edges have just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish to complement your favorite Southern meals or enjoying it on its own, this skillet cornbread is sure to satisfy. Feel free to add a few pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist, or a touch of garlic for added depth of flavor. Sometimes, though, simplicity is best. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- Bacon drippings: 2-3 tablespoons
- Buttermilk: 2 cups
- Egg: 1 large
- Cornmeal: 1 3/4 cups
- All-purpose flour: 3/4 cup
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 252 kcal per serving
- Fat content: 4.4 g
- Saturated fat content: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol content: 39.9 mg
- Sodium content: 770.2 mg
- Carbohydrate content: 45.5 g
- Fiber content: 3 g
- Sugar content: 6.3 g
- Protein content: 8.3 g
Servings
- Number of servings: 6
Total Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to a toasty 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is key to getting that perfect crust.
-
-
Prepare your skillet: Coat a 10-inch cast iron skillet generously with the bacon drippings. The bacon drippings not only add flavor but also help in creating that coveted crispy crust.
-
Heat the skillet: Place your prepared skillet in the preheated oven. Allow it to heat up thoroughly, which should take about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as a hot skillet ensures the batter starts cooking immediately upon contact, forming a beautiful crust.
-
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are well blended. This dry mix forms the foundation of your cornbread.
-
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and the egg. The buttermilk adds a slight tanginess and helps keep the cornbread moist, while the egg provides structure.
-
Blend the batter: Gradually add the buttermilk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until the ingredients are combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cornbread. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
-
Pour the batter into the skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (remember, it’s extremely hot!). Pour the prepared batter into the skillet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
-
Bake to perfection: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know the cornbread is done when the top is nicely golden and firm to the touch. To double-check, you can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cornbread is ready.
-
Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best taste experience.
Tips and Variations
- For a spicier kick: Add some pickled jalapeños to the batter. Simply fold them in before pouring the batter into the skillet.
- Garlic lovers: A small clove of minced garlic added to the batter can add a lovely depth of flavor.
- Cheesy delight: Stir in a half-cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist on this classic recipe.
- Healthier option: Substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil for a healthier version. You’ll still get a nice crust, though it might lack the smoky flavor bacon drippings provide.
Serving Suggestions
- With honey butter: A pat of honey butter melting on a warm slice of cornbread is simply irresistible.
- Alongside chili: Cornbread pairs wonderfully with a bowl of hearty chili, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Breakfast companion: Enjoy a slice of cornbread with scrambled eggs and bacon for a delightful Southern breakfast.
Fun Facts
- Origin of cornbread: Cornbread has been a staple in American cuisine since the early Native Americans, who used ground corn as a primary ingredient in their cooking.
- Regional variations: In the South, cornbread is often made without sugar, whereas in the North, a bit of sweetness is usually added.
- Versatile bread: Cornbread can be baked, fried, or even steamed, showcasing its versatility in various cooking methods.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll have a delicious skillet cornbread ready to impress your family and friends. Its simplicity is what makes it so charming and delectable. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a few creative additions, this cornbread recipe is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and bake up some cornbread that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. 🌽🥓💛
