Bacon Corn Bread
A savory cornbread infused with crispy bacon, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, offering smoky, buttery flavors and tender crumb for hearty enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Grease an 8 or 9-inch square pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in milk, oil, and beaten egg, beating by hand just until smooth.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle over the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 425°F for 18 to 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon and cooking it until crispy before crumbling it into the batter. If you're out of milk, you can substitute with buttermilk for a tangy twist. To make this dish gluten-free, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For added texture, fold in some shredded cheese or chopped jalapeños, which can enhance its flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon corn bread makes a delightful side dish for breakfast or brunch, pairing beautifully with scrambled eggs or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a warm bowl of chili or a comforting soup. It can also be enjoyed as a snack, perhaps with a smear of butter or even alongside a dip like BLT Dip Delight for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bacon corn bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Corn Bread contains roughly 567 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1092mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake it fresh. If you do bake it ahead, let it cool completely before storing.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to add a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, turkey bacon or prosciutto can be used for a lighter meat option.
Can I add vegetables to the corn bread?
Absolutely! Chopped green onions, bell peppers, or even corn kernels can be added to the batter to enhance the flavor and add nutritional value. Just be mindful of the moisture content to ensure the bread bakes properly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).