Are you tired of serving plain old cornbread as a side dish? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with creative ways to use leftovers? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 18 delicious and innovative recipe ideas that will take your cornbread game to the next level. From savory stuffings to sweet breakfast casseroles, we’re about to transform your leftover cornbread into a culinary masterpiece.
Cornbread Pudding with Vanilla and Cinnamon
This cornbread pudding is a twist on the classic Southern dessert, infused with the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon. Perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread and stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the pudding is smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Cornbread Stuffing with Herbs
Savory Cornbread Stuffing with Herbs Recipe
Transform your holiday meals with this savory cornbread stuffing infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. In a separate bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, melted butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked onion mixture to the cornbread mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cornbread Croutons for Salads and Soups
Elevate your salads and soups with crunchy, flavorful cornbread croutons! These easy-to-make treats are perfect for adding texture and a hint of sweetness to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale cornbread, broken into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: paprika or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the cornbread pieces with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings until evenly coated.
3. Spread the crouton mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before using in salads, soups, or as a snack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese
Start your day with a hearty and satisfying Cornbread Breakfast Casserole, packed with eggs, cheese, and the warm comfort of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.25 oz) package of cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Top with remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and chopped bell peppers.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown, eggs are set, and casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread and Sausage Skillet Bake
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cozy evening or a brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage, sliced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the melted butter, cornbread mix, milk, and salt. Stir until combined.
4. Top with shredded cheese and chopped scallions.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and the sausage is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread French Toast with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a sweet twist on traditional French toast. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cornbread and maple syrup to create a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the cornbread mix and egg.
2. Add the milk and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each bread slice into the cornbread mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cornbread Chili Pie with Ground Beef
Elevate your chili game with this savory cornbread-topped pie that combines ground beef, beans, and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cornbread mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans; stir to combine.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions using water and add shredded cheese (if using).
8. Top chili mixture with cornbread batter.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Waffles with Honey Butter
Start your day off right with a delicious twist on traditional waffles – cornbread waffles! These moist and crumbly treats are infused with the sweetness of corn and topped with a rich honey butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook the waffles according to the iron’s instructions.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix together the butter and honey until smooth. Serve warm over your freshly baked cornbread waffles.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per waffle
Cornbread Panzanella Salad with Tomatoes
A creative twist on the classic Italian bread salad, this Cornbread Panzanella Salad with Tomatoes combines the crumbly texture of cornbread with juicy tomatoes and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal or as a side dish for your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss cornbread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. In a large bowl, combine toasted cornbread, diced tomatoes, basil, feta cheese (if using), vinegar, and remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Bread Pudding with Bourbon Glaze
Warm up with a classic Southern dessert with a twist! This Cornbread Bread Pudding with Bourbon Glaze is the perfect way to end a meal, combining the comfort of cornbread with the richness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Bourbon glaze: 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
3. Add the cornbread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. For the glaze, whisk together bourbon whiskey, powdered sugar, and heavy cream in a small bowl.
6. Drizzle the warm bread pudding with the bourbon glaze and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze
A twist on classic meatloaf, this recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the richness of BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cornbread mix, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; mix until just combined.
4. Shape mixture into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. While meatloaf is baking, prepare BBQ glaze by mixing together 1/4 cup ketchup and 2 tbsp brown sugar.
8. Remove meatloaf from oven and brush with BBQ glaze. Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Cornbread and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the vibrant flavors of black beans, making for a unique and delicious taco experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, optional
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning black beans onto tortillas, topping with cornbread crumbles, and adding cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro as desired.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cornbread Crumble Topping for Casseroles
Elevate your casseroles with this crispy, buttery cornbread crumble topping. Perfect for adding a satisfying crunch to your favorite dishes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. If using cheese, stir it in at this point.
5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over your casserole before baking.
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cornbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
Take your ice cream game to the next level with this unique treat that combines warm cornbread with creamy ice cream and crunchy pecans. Perfect for a summer afternoon or a special dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
3. Allow the cornbread to cool completely.
4. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place an ice cream ball between two pieces of cooled cornbread, pressing gently.
6. Roll the edges of the cornbread in chopped pecans for a crunchy finish.
7. Serve immediately and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cornbread and Bacon Hash
A classic Southern comfort food combination, this recipe brings together the warmth of cornbread and the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a hearty breakfast.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, egg, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the cornbread is baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Add crumbled bacon, garlic, and a pinch of salt; stir to combine.
9. Serve warm cornbread with the bacon hash spooned on top.
Cooking Time: Cornbread: 20-25 minutes; Bacon Hash: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Dumplings for Stew
Elevate your stew game with these tender and flavorful cornbread dumplings that add a delightful twist to the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– Honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the surface of your stew, leaving some space between each dumpling.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornbread Muffins with Jalapeños and Cheese
Elevate your snack game with these savory cornbread muffins infused with the perfect balance of spicy jalapeños and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2-3 sliced jalapeños
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cheese, cilantro, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and jalapeños.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an added touch of sweetness.
Cornbread Apple Cobbler with Cinnamon
This warm and comforting dessert combines the sweetness of apples and cornbread with a hint of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, melted butter, egg, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Arrange apple slices on top of the cornbread mixture.
5. Drizzle with heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover cornbread! From sweet treats to savory meals, we’ve got 18 delicious recipes to repurpose that extra cornbread. Try transforming it into a pudding with vanilla and cinnamon, or use it as a crunchy topping for salads and soups. You can even turn it into breakfast casserole, a skillet bake with sausage, or French toast with maple syrup. These tasty ideas will inspire you to think outside the box (or loaf) and reduce food waste while satisfying your cravings.
