Beef Bacon Bit Cornbread
A savory cornbread infused with crispy bacon bits, perfect as a comforting side or breakfast dish with rich flavors and moist texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a frying pan and break into very small pieces.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine cornmeal, sifted flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder; mix thoroughly.
- Add milk, stirring slowly to combine.
- Add eggs and blend well.
- Melt butter in the baking pan and pour into the cornmeal batter; mix well.
- Add the bacon pieces and stir very well.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider using buttermilk instead of regular milk, which adds a nice tang. If beef bacon is not available, turkey bacon can be a great alternative for a lighter option. Ensure to chop the bacon finely for even distribution throughout the cornbread, enhancing each bite. For added texture, mix in a cup of shredded cheese or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
This beef bacon bit cornbread makes an excellent side for chili or pairs beautifully with Marietta's Vegetable Beef Soup. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It can also be crumbled over salads for a unique twist or served alongside breakfast dishes, enhancing a hearty start to your day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Bacon Bit Cornbread contains roughly 514 calories, with 7g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1368mg per serving (59% 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 use regular bacon instead of beef bacon?
Yes, you can use regular bacon in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious. Cook the bacon until crispy and chop it into small pieces before adding it to the batter.
What can I serve with this cornbread?
This cornbread pairs wonderfully with soups and stews, particularly chili or even Brown Sugar Meatloaf. You can also enjoy it as a side with barbecued meats or a hearty salad for a complete meal.
Can I freeze leftover cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cornbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
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).