Fancy Cornbread
A rich and cheesy cornbread infused with bacon, green pepper, and onion, offering a savory, hearty flavor perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Its moist texture and flavorful toppings make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with chili, stews, or roasted meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Oil a 10-inch round pie pan and place in oven to heat.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Chop small onion and green pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and then add milk, oil, and cream-style corn.
- Stir in shredded cheese, chopped onion, green pepper, and crumbled bacon.
- Pour batter into the preheated pie pan.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using maple bacon instead of regular bacon. If you're short on time, you can substitute the fresh onion and green pepper with dried onion flakes and green bell pepper seasoning. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, replace the flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly before combining with the dry to ensure even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
Fancy Cornbread pairs beautifully with Country-Style Pork Chops for a hearty meal. Serve it warm alongside a fresh green salad or your favorite chili for a comforting dinner. It also makes a great breakfast item, especially when topped with honey or butter. For a complete brunch, consider serving it with a side of eggs and fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through. If you want a crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fancy Cornbread contains roughly 401 calories, with 13g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1419mg per serving (62% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to let the batter come to room temperature before pouring it into the preheated pan. This ensures even baking and a great texture.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can use sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth without the meat.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheese for an extra layer of heat. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for the perfect amount of spice.
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).