Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of warm, golden-brown Southern cornbread. With its crisp crust and tender, buttery center, this timeless staple of Southern cuisine can instantly elevate any meal. Whether served with collard greens, a hearty bowl of chili, or simply with a pat of butter and drizzle of honey, this cornbread always delivers that home-cooked feeling.

The beauty of classic Southern cornbread lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t need bells and whistles. Just a few humble ingredients come together to create something special—a recipe passed down through generations, baked in cast iron, and infused with tradition. It’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread

This cornbread strikes the perfect balance between savory and lightly sweet, with a texture that’s moist but still holds its crumb. The edges get perfectly crisp if baked in a hot cast iron skillet, and the inside stays soft and fluffy. It’s incredibly easy to whip up on a weeknight, and it stores beautifully for the next day.

With no added sugar in the traditional Southern style, this recipe lets the corn flavor shine. And if you like yours a bit sweeter or with mix-ins like jalapeños or cheddar, it’s easy to customize.

What Kind of Cornmeal Should I Use?

For authentic Southern cornbread, always reach for stone-ground yellow cornmeal. This type gives you that signature coarse texture and rich corn flavor. Avoid self-rising or pre-sweetened mixes if you’re aiming for the traditional experience. A finely ground cornmeal will yield a more cake-like result, while stone-ground keeps it hearty and rustic.

Ingredients for the Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

Southern cornbread is all about celebrating simple pantry ingredients. Each component plays a key role in texture, flavor, or binding the loaf together.

• Yellow cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Buttermilk
• Large egg
• Unsalted butter

Cornmeal gives it its iconic crumbly base, while flour helps create structure. Baking powder and soda work together for lift. Salt balances everything out, while the buttermilk adds a delicious tang and moisture. One egg binds the mixture, and melted butter delivers richness in every bite.

How To Make the Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F. If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven while it preheats so it gets nice and hot.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure they’re evenly combined to avoid any pockets of baking soda later.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the egg into the buttermilk. Slowly pour in the melted butter while whisking to combine. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.

Step 4: Bake

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and swirl in a bit of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter in—you should hear a sizzle. That’s how you know the crust will be perfect. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the cornbread cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or your favorite savory dishes.

How to Serve and Store Classic Southern Cornbread

This recipe makes about 8 hearty wedges, ideal for feeding 4 to 6 people, especially when served as a side dish. Serve it fresh from the oven for the best texture, though leftovers are still wonderful.

Store any remaining cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five. Reheat slices in the oven or toast them on a skillet for best results. It also freezes well—wrap individual pieces in foil and freeze for up to two months.

What to Serve With Cornbread?

Chili

Nothing beats the classic pairing of chili and cornbread. The crumbly bread soaks up all that spicy, savory flavor.

Collard Greens

Southern greens and cornbread are a match made in comfort-food heaven. The bread balances the bold, vinegary notes of the greens.

BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork

Cornbread is the ideal partner for saucy meats, offering a soft texture and mild sweetness.

Fried Chicken

Crispy fried chicken with a side of warm cornbread is pure Southern gold.

Pinto Beans or Black-Eyed Peas

Hearty beans served with a slice of cornbread are a humble, deeply satisfying dish.

Creamy Soups

Cornbread complements creamy tomato or butternut squash soup beautifully.

Breakfast Plate

Pair leftover cornbread with scrambled eggs and sausage for a hearty morning meal.

Want More Southern Comfort Food Ideas?

If you loved this cornbread, try these delicious down-home favorites from Luna Meals:

• Smothered Chicken and Rice for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni when you want comfort in a bowl.
• Southern Banana Cobbler for a dessert that feels like a warm hug.
• Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls for a crunchy twist on Southern fusion.
• Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak that’s the perfect finishing touch for any meat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s always at your fingertips when comfort food cravings hit.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go the classic route or add your own twist with honey or jalapeños?

I love seeing how you make Luna Meals your own. And if you’re looking for more cozy and wholesome inspiration, check out the growing collection on Luna Meals on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a lifelong Southerner or just diving into the world of comforting Southern eats, this Classic Southern Cornbread Recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. With its tender crumb, satisfying crunch, and endlessly adaptable nature, it’s as welcome on a holiday table as it is on a casual weeknight. Happy baking!

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?