Cornbread Dinner
Savory sausage cornbread with sweet pepper, onion, and creamy corn, topped with sharp cheddar—comforting, hearty, and perfect for a quick family dinner or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, fry 1 lb sausage over medium heat until browned; add 1/2 cup chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in 1 pkg cornbread mix, 3 Tbsp sugar, 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1 can creamed corn, and 3/4 cup buttermilk or milk until combined.
- Beat 1 egg and fold it into the batter.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy your comforting cornbread dinner!
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using hot sausage instead of mild. You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk or a non-dairy alternative if needed. Adding a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne can enhance the flavors. If you have leftover vegetables, like zucchini, feel free to toss them in for added nutrition and taste. This dish is versatile and can easily accommodate your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cornbread dinner warm, perhaps with a side salad or some sautéed greens for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can also enjoy it alongside dishes like Zucchini Sausage Bake(Low-Cal) for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornbread Dinner contains roughly 869 calories, with 36g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and protein (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1250mg per serving (54% 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 cornbread dinner vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of creamed corn for moisture, and ensure your cornbread mix is meat-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider using hot sausage instead of mild or incorporating jalapeños or diced green chiles into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
What can I serve alongside this cornbread dinner?
This cornbread dinner is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables. A side of beans or coleslaw could also complement the flavors nicely, making it a well-rounded meal.
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).