Cornbread Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, Cornbread Salad might just be your new favorite recipe. This Southern-inspired dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with something a little different. With layers of savory cornbread, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Salad

Cornbread Salad is the epitome of comfort food with a twist. It’s hearty enough to be a main dish, yet versatile enough to serve as a side. The combination of moist cornbread with crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, and the savory bite of bacon makes for a dish that’s not only flavorful but also satisfying. Plus, it’s a make-ahead recipe, which means less stress when you’re hosting or attending a gathering.

Ingredients

Cornbread

• Cooking spray
• 1 (16 ounce) package corn bread mix
• 1 ½ cups water

Salad

• 10 slices bacon
• 1 ½ cups sour cream
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
• 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
• 2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped green onion
• 2 (11 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the cornbread: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray the bottom and sides of an 8×8-inch pan with cooking spray.
2. Combine cornbread mix and water in a large mixing bowl until smooth; pour into prepared pan.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool; crumble and set aside.
4. Meanwhile, make the salad: Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels.
5. Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, and dressing mix in a medium bowl.
6. Crumble 1/2 of the cornbread in the bottom of a large serving dish. Evenly layer with 1 can of pinto beans, 1/2 of the tomatoes, 1/2 cup green bell pepper, 1/2 cup green onions, 1 can of corn, 1 cup of cheese, 1/2 of the bacon, and 1/2 of the sour cream mixture. Repeat the layers. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips for the Best Cornbread Salad

• Make it Ahead: This salad actually tastes better after it has chilled for a few hours, as the flavors have time to meld together.
• Customize Your Layers: Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Black beans, jalapeños, or even avocado could be delicious additions.
• Use Homemade Cornbread: If you have time, making cornbread from scratch can add a personal touch and enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Cornbread Salad is a dish that brings together the best of Southern cuisine in one bowl. It’s colorful, flavorful, and a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just a family dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your household too!

Nutritional Information

Calories 623 Total fat 42g Saturated fat 13g Cholesterol 52mg Sodium 1534mg total Carbohydrate 48g Dietary fiber 4g Total sugars 8g Protein 16g Vitamin C 17mg Calcium 293mg Iron 3mg Potassium 441mg