Cornbread Salad

This Cornbread Salad is a hearty, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings. With layers of crumbled cornbread, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing, it’s a Southern classic that’s both colorful and delicious.

Essential Ingredients

To make this savory and satisfying layered salad, you’ll need:

For the Cornbread:

• Cooking spray
• 1 (16-ounce) package cornbread mix
• 1 ½ cups water

For the 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

Preparation Steps

Make the Cornbread:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, mix together cornbread mix and water until smooth.
4. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let cool, then crumble and set aside.

Prepare the Salad:

6. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and crumble.
7. In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix.

Assemble the Layers:

8. Layer 1: Crumble half of the cornbread in the bottom of a large serving dish.
9. Layer 2: Evenly spread 1 can of pinto beans over the cornbread.
10. Layer 3: Add ½ of the chopped tomatoes, ½ cup green bell pepper, and ½ cup green onions.
11. Layer 4: Spread 1 can of corn evenly.
12. Layer 5: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
13. Layer 6: Add ½ of the crumbled bacon.
14. Layer 7: Spread ½ of the sour cream dressing mixture evenly.
15. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
16. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Health Benefits

• High in Fiber: Beans and vegetables provide 4g of fiber per serving, promoting digestion.
• Good Source of Protein: With 16g of protein per serving, this salad is satisfying and nourishing.
• Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Packed with Vitamin C, calcium, and iron for immune and bone health.
• Balanced Flavors & Textures: Combines creamy, crunchy, and hearty ingredients for a well-rounded dish.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside BBQ, grilled meats, or fried chicken.
• With Cornbread Muffins: Serve with extra cornbread on the side for more texture.
• Topped with Avocado: Adds creaminess and extra healthy fats.
• With a Drizzle of Hot Sauce: Enhances flavor with a spicy kick.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Mexican-Style Cornbread Salad: Use black beans, corn, and shredded pepper jack cheese.
• Healthier Version: Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add extra beans or avocado.
• Layered in Mason Jars: Perfect for individual servings at parties.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and refrigerate for the best flavors.
• Avoid Freezing: The dairy-based dressing and fresh vegetables don’t freeze well.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Cornbread: Freshly baked cornbread adds the best texture and flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: This allows the flavors to meld together.
• Crumble the Bacon Last: Keeps it crispy and flavorful.
• Customize the Layers: Adjust the layers to your preference for a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad the night before?
Yes! In fact, chilling overnight enhances the flavor.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing mix?
You can mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a homemade version.

Can I serve this warm?
This salad is best served cold, but you can warm the cornbread separately and add toppings right before serving.

Is this salad gluten-free?
It depends on the cornbread mix used—be sure to choose a gluten-free cornbread mix if needed.

Enjoy this Cornbread Salad, a unique, flavorful, and easy-to-make Southern dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Print