Skillet Cornbread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making your own skillet cornbread is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place your cast iron skillet inside to heat, which will help create a crispy crust.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
Carefully combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated—avoid over-mixing to keep your cornbread tender.
Quickly remove the hot skillet from the oven, grease it lightly, and pour the batter into it.
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serve warm with butter or honey for an extra tasty treat.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

There are countless ways to serve skillet cornbread. Pair it with a hearty bowl of chili for a classic dinner combo or slice it up and serve it alongside fried chicken. Want to make it a breakfast treat? Top it with scrambled eggs and avocado or drizzle it with maple syrup for a sweet morning delight. It also shines as an accompaniment to smoky barbecue and grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to resist the deliciousness), you can store your skillet cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual slices for a quick warm-up.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to make your cornbread even better:

For added moisture and richness, try substituting half the amount of milk with sour cream.
If you enjoy a little heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or shredded cheese to the batter before baking.
Don’t skip the preheating of the skillet; this step is essential for achieving that crunchy golden crust that everyone loves.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:

Herb-Infused Cornbread: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for a savory touch.
Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Mix in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños for a spicy and cheesy version.
Sweet Cornbread Muffins: Pour the batter into a muffin tin instead of a skillet for individual servings, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this cornbread?

You can prepare and bake this cornbread in just about 30 minutes, making it a quick solution for dinner.

Can I use corn flour instead of cornmeal?

Corn flour is finer than cornmeal, which may affect the texture, but you can use it if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the baking time.

Is it safe to freeze cornbread?

Yes! You can freeze cornbread. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. When thawing, let it sit at room temperature or microwave it for a few seconds to warm up.

This skillet cornbread recipe is nothing short of a kitchen classic, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved comfort food. Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors, and relish in the happy moments it brings to your table.