12 Irresistible Cornbread Recipes That Everyone Will Love

From classic skillet versions to creative twists, these recipes bring warmth, texture, and flavor.

cornbread in a cast-iron skillet
Photo:

Anna Williams

Nothing says comfort quite like cornbread. This golden, buttery staple is endlessly versatile, making it just as at home alongside a big pot of chili as it is at a barbecue. Whether you prefer it tender and crumbly, moist with a creamy twist, or with a hint of spice, cornbread has a way of adapting to all tastes.

In every form, cornbread invites you to pull it apart and savor the mix of textures—from its crisp, golden edges to its soft, melt-in-your-mouth center. The recipes we're sharing here are great on their own or as a comforting companion to other flavors, and they match every craving and occasion, showing just how deliciously flexible this classic bread can be.

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Traditional Skillet Cornbread

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This old-fashioned cornbread is unique in that you cook it on the stovetop, which delivers a delightful, slightly crispy crust with a tender, moist interior. It’s a comforting classic that’s easy to make and complements a variety of meals.

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Custard-Filled Cornbread

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Mike Krautter

This custard-filled cornbread combines tender cornmeal with a creamy, luscious center, offering a sweet and savory twist on tradition.

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Buttermilk Cornbread for Cornbread Dressing

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Quentin Bacon

This buttermilk cornbread is golden, tender, and has just the right balance of savory and subtly sweet. Perfect as a side or crumbled into a flavorful cornbread dressing, it bakes up in about 25 minutes for a quick, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal.

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Cheddar Cornbread

Cheddar Cornbread

Baking this cheddar cornbread in a preheated cast-iron skillet creates a crisp, golden crust with a tender, cheesy interior. With just a hint of pepper and a touch of sweetness, it’s a great companion for hearty soups or savory main dishes.

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Cornmeal Biscuits

cornmeal biscuits on plate with honey
BEATRIZ DA COSTA

Cornmeal adds a subtle crunch and beautiful golden color to these tender biscuits. Enjoy them warm from the oven with a touch of butter or a drizzle of honey.

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Corn-Kernel Cornbread

stacked pieces on corn bread on plate

The addition of frozen corn lends pleasing texture to this cornbread. With a golden crust and a buttery flavor, it’s sure to please everyone at your table.

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Whole-Grain Skillet Cornbread

Whole-Grain Skillet Cornbread

Elevate your spread with this cornbread, which features a crisp crust that screams out for a generous pat of butter. The combination of yellow cornmeal and whole-wheat flour also ensures the bread is hearty and flavorful.

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Pumpkin Cornbread

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These slightly sweet pumpkin cornbreads (pictured on the right) are a lovely fall treat. They have a moist texture and warm, comforting flavors and would be terrific at any autumn gathering.

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Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing

cornbread sausage stuffing
David Loftus

Buttery, crumbly cornbread takes center stage in this stuffing, soaking up all the savory goodness. With savory bits of pork sausage and fresh sage, the dish delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

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Cheddar-Jalapeno Cornbread

corn bread

Falling nicely between tender and crumbly, this cornbread gets a kick from sharp cheddar and zesty jalapenos. Try it with chili or soup for a comforting cool-weather meal.

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Zucchini Cornbread Muffins

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Aaron Dyer

Combining the sweetness of cornmeal with the moisture of shredded zucchini, these muffins are fluffy and satisfying. They're great for breakfast or as a side for any meal.

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Cornmeal-Creme Fraiche Spoon Bread

cornmeal creme fraiche spoon bread
Chris Court

This isn’t your typical cornbread; instead, it’s a creamy, pudding-like treat that combines cornmeal with crème fraîche for a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. With fresh chives and sweet corn folded in, it’s a Southern-inspired side best enjoyed warm from the oven.

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