Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

Introduction

Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar is a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic southern dish. This rich, golden cornbread is baked in a skillet for that perfect crisp crust while maintaining a moist, tender interior. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese elevates the cornbread to a new level, creating a savory, cheesy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the cornmeal. Whether served as a side dish for a family dinner, at a holiday gathering, or with a hearty bowl of chili, this cornbread will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar is perfect for anyone craving a savory, cheesy bread with a touch of southern charm.

Perfect for:

• Family gatherings
• Holiday meals
• Barbecues and cookouts
• Pairing with soups and stews
• Cheese lovers and cornbread enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar will become your go-to recipe:

• Cheesy Goodness: The sharp cheddar cheese brings a savory, gooey richness that takes this cornbread to the next level.
• Crisp and Tender: Baking in a skillet gives the cornbread a crispy edge while keeping the inside moist and tender.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have fresh cornbread on the table in no time.
• Versatile: Serve this cornbread as a side dish with everything from chili to roast chicken, or enjoy it as a standalone snack.
• Customizable: Add a touch of spice with jalapeños, or make it even cheesier with extra cheddar—this recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 pieces
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 16g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar:

• 1 cup cornmeal (preferably stone-ground)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk if you prefer)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated (preferably aged for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the skillet)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cornmeal: Cornmeal is the star ingredient, giving this bread its signature texture and flavor. For the best results, use stone-ground cornmeal for a more authentic, rustic texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cornmeal.
• Buttermilk: The buttermilk helps keep the cornbread moist and tender, while also enhancing its flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, regular milk works fine as well.
• Butter: Butter provides a rich, smooth taste that complements the cheese, giving the cornbread a savory depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make perfect Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar:

Prepare the Cornbread Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a 9-10 inch cast-iron skillet in the oven while it preheats to ensure it gets hot.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and optional sugar (if using). Whisk until everything is evenly mixed.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and optional honey. Be sure the melted butter is slightly cooled before mixing to prevent curdling the eggs.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter—stir until there are no visible streaks of flour, but a few lumps are okay.
5. Fold in the Cheese: Gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cook the Cornbread:

6. Prepare the Skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Swirl the oil around to ensure the entire bottom is covered.
7. Pour in the Batter: Immediately pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet. The batter should sizzle as it hits the pan, helping to form a crispy crust.
8. Bake: Place the skillet back into the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be crispy and slightly caramelized.
9. Cool Slightly: Remove the cornbread from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes in the skillet before slicing.

Cut and Serve:

10. Serve: Slice the cornbread into wedges or squares and serve warm. The cheesy, savory flavor pairs wonderfully with everything from chili to fried chicken, or it can be enjoyed on its own with a dab of butter and a drizzle of honey.

How to Serve Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Chili: Serve alongside a hearty bowl of chili for the perfect comfort food combination. The cheese in the cornbread complements the spices in the chili beautifully.
• As a Side Dish: Pair with roast meats, barbecued chicken, or grilled vegetables for a satisfying southern meal.
• With Butter and Honey: For a simple yet indulgent treat, serve the cornbread with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
• As a Breakfast: Top a warm piece of cornbread with a fried egg and some hot sauce for a savory breakfast option.
• For a Picnic: This cornbread is portable and holds up well at picnics or outdoor gatherings, making it a great addition to any spread.

Additional Tips for Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

Here are some tips to make your Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar even better:

• Use a Hot Skillet: The key to a crispy, golden crust is using a preheated skillet. This ensures the batter sizzles as it hits the pan, forming a delicious outer layer.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to dense cornbread.
• Add Spice: If you like a little heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of cheeses work wonderfully in this cornbread.
• Let it Cool: Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing, as it will firm up slightly and be easier to cut.

Recipe Variations for Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

Here are some variations of Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar that you can try:

• Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy twist on this classic cornbread.
• Bacon and Cheddar Cornbread: For those who eat halal meats, substitute halal turkey bacon or chicken sausage for a smoky, savory addition to the cornbread.
• Sweet Cornbread with Honey: Use a bit more sugar and add a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter version that works great with barbecued meats.
• Herb and Cheddar Cornbread: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the batter for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
• Vegetarian Cornbread: Mix in some chopped vegetables like corn kernels, bell peppers, or onions for added texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

• Freezing: You can freeze leftover cornbread for up to 3 months. Slice it into pieces, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw at room temperature or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Storage: Store cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it moist, you can wrap the cornbread in a clean kitchen towel before placing it in the container.

Special Equipment for Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

Here are some special equipment items you might need to make Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar:

• Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust and even heat distribution while baking.
• Whisk: A whisk will help you mix the dry ingredients thoroughly and break up any lumps in the cornmeal.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right proportions of ingredients for a perfectly balanced cornbread.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack helps to cool the cornbread evenly, preventing it from getting soggy on the bottom.
• Spatula: A spatula will help you transfer the batter into the skillet without spilling or making a mess.

FAQ Section for Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk helps make the cornbread moist and tender while adding a slight tangy flavor.
2. Can I make this cornbread dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and use dairy-free cheese for a fully dairy-free version.
3. How can I make the cornbread sweeter? If you prefer a sweeter cornbread, increase the sugar slightly or add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
5. Can I add more cheese to this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add extra cheese for a cheesier cornbread. You can even top the batter with a layer of cheese before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

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Conclusion

Southern Skillet Cornbread with Cheddar is a deliciously indulgent and comforting dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. Its rich, cheesy flavor, crispy crust, and tender interior make it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, this cornbread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with chili, grilled meats, or as a standalone snack, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy a slice of southern comfort today!