Plain Ole' Cornbread
A classic, moist cornbread with a slightly sweet and savory flavor, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a comforting side dish with hearty stews.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl.
- Add egg and milk to the dry mixture and stir well.
- Heat shortening or oil in an iron skillet until hot.
- Pour the batter into the hot skillet.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting buttermilk for regular milk. If you want a slightly sweeter cornbread, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients. To enhance the texture, try adding a cup of corn kernels or shredded cheese. Be sure to preheat your skillet to achieve a perfect crust, similar to what you would find in traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cornbread warm, perhaps with a pat of butter on top. It pairs beautifully with hearty chili, soups, or stews. For a Southern twist, consider serving it alongside Colonel Jack'S Old Southern Bourbon Brownies for dessert. This cornbread also makes a great base for savory toppings like pulled pork or sautéed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in a warm oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Ole' Cornbread contains roughly 306 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 whole wheat flour instead of cornmeal?
Whole wheat flour will alter the texture and flavor of the cornbread, resulting in a denser product. It's best to stick with cornmeal for authentic flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider using a mix of cornmeal and whole wheat flour, but keep the ratio to about 70% cornmeal.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the cornbread?
You can add ingredients like jalapeños for heat, herbs for freshness, or even crumbled bacon for a savory touch. Some people enjoy mixing in cheese or chopped green onions. Experiment with flavors to create your perfect variation!
Is this cornbread suitable for freezing?
Yes, cornbread freezes well! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm 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).