Cornbread Salad

If you love cornbread and flavor, you’re gonna LOVE this Cornbread Salad! It’s bomb, y’all! It has all the down-home flavors you’d expect from a Southern dish, including chunks of sweet, buttery cornbread tossed with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, beans, crunchy bell peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese. And, I mean, what is a cornbread salad without creamy, tangy ranch dressing – well, it ain’t a cornbread salad, that’s all I am sayin’.

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In the South, we’re pretty creative with our salads. From shrimp and eggs to potatoes and pickles, and even the occasional (and controversial) jello salad, we know how to mix it up. But this old-fashioned Cornbread Salad? Oh honey, it’s in a league of its own! Perfect for potlucks, family reunions, or just a lazy Sunday BBQ. I whip mine up with a handy box of Jiffy mix – super easy and just as tasty. But if you have the time, any of my homemade cornbread recipes will do just fine too.

The Heart & Soul Of Cornbread Salad

Cuisine Inspiration: Southern American
Primary Cooking Method: No-cook assembly
Dietary Info: Contains dairy, gluten, and meat
Key Flavor: Savory with a touch of sweetness and creaminess
Skill Level: Beginner

Sweet Spots

• Perfect for Leftover Cornbread: Got some cornbread hangin’ around from last night’s dinner? This recipe is a great way to put those leftovers to good use. They’ll soak up the flavors from the other ingredients like a charm!
• Super Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of extra bacon, prefer a different type of bean, or want to toss in some additional veggies, this salad is all about making it your own. You can throw in pretty much whatever tickles your fancy!
• A Southern Staple Made Simple: Every Southern kitchen has its own take on cornbread salad, but this recipe is as easy as pie. It comes together in 10 minutes max with ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
• Bursting with Flavor: From the sweet cornbread and salty bacon to the creamy beans and sharp cheddar, it’s a full-flavored dish that’s sure to satisfy.
• Feeds a Crowd with Ease: Whether you’re feeding your family or the whole neighborhood, this cornbread salad’s got you covered. It’s my go-to for potlucks or any time I’ve got a house full of hungry folks.

Ingredients To Make Cornbread Salad

For The Salad

• Jiffy Cornbread: This is the heart and soul of this dish, y’all! Make it according to the box for a quick and delicious base, or swap in your favorite homemade recipe if you’re feeling fancy!
• Bacon: Cook these up until they’re nice and crispy. They add a smoky, savory crunch that’s just irresistible.
• Canned Corn: Because you can never have enough corn.
• Pinto Beans: These creamy beans are a Southern staple, adding heartiness and a lovely texture contrast.
• Yellow Onion: A little sharp, a little sweet, these onions add a punch of flavor and a nice crunch.
• Red Bell Pepper: For a pop of color and a slightly sweet, crisp bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, they add a burst of freshness to the salad.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: My favorite part about this cornbread salad recipe! Its bold flavor and creamy texture really bring the salad together.
• Green Onion: For a mild oniony bite and a dash of color.

For The Dressing

• Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These two create a creamy, tangy base for your dressing. It’s like a blanket of flavor for your salad.
• Garlic Powder: Just a touch for a hint of savory goodness.
• Buttermilk: Adds a lovely tang and creaminess to the dressing.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of this gives a deep, savory umami flavor.
• Fresh Chives & Flat Leaf Parsley: These herbs bring freshness and a pop of green, along with a subtle, herby taste.
• Salt & Pepper: The classic duo to season your dressing just right.

How To Make Cornbread Salad

Step 1: Mix The Salad Dressing

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic powder in a medium bowl until well combined.
2. Slowly mix in buttermilk and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Stir in chives and parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Set aside, or can be made up to 1 day ahead of time.

Step 2: Layer And Mix The Salad With The Dressing

1. Place half of the dressing in the bottom of a large bowl.
2. Combine half of all salad ingredients, except green onions, on top of the dressing.
3. Toss together, coating all ingredients. Then, place the second half of the dressing on top.
4. Add the second half of the salad ingredients on top.
5. Toss gently to coat. Wrap and chill for 2 hours in the refrigerator.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with green onions, and serve!

Tips For Making The Best Southern Cornbread Salad

1. Don’t Use Warm Cornbread: Y’all, resist the urge to use warm, just-baked cornbread. Let that cornbread cool down completely, or even better, make it a day ahead. This bit of planning helps the cornbread keep its shape and texture when tossed with the other ingredients. Ain’t nothing sadder than a mushy salad!
2. Chop the Veggies Evenly: When chopping your veggies, aim for consistent sizes. This ain’t just about looking pretty – it ensures every forkful has a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
3. Give It More Time to Chill: Sure, you can chill this easy cornbread salad for a couple of hours, but if you’ve got the time, let it sit in the fridge overnight. This extra chillin’ time lets the flavors meld together even more.
4. Gentle Toss: When you’re mixing your cornbread and veggies with that creamy dressing, be gentle. Overmixing can make the cornbread crumble and the veggies lose their crispness.
5. Cook the Bacon Right: Cook your bacon until it’s just crispy enough. You want those bits to add a delightful crunch without being too hard.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

• Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo: Swap out mayo for Greek yogurt in your dressing for a tangier, lighter touch. It adds a bit of zing and cuts down on the richness, making your Jiffy cornbread salad a bit lighter but still deliciously creamy. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add some extra protein!
• Swap the Beans: If you’re not a fan of pinto beans, try black beans or kidney beans. Each type of bean brings its own unique flavor and texture.
• Veggie Twist: Feel free to throw in some extra veggies. How about some diced cucumbers or shredded carrots? They’ll add a fresh, crisp element that plays nicely with the soft cornbread and creamy dressing.
• Try Different Cheese: If sharp cheddar isn’t your thing, mix it up with some Monterey Jack or even a bit of crumbled feta. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

What To Serve With Old Fashioned Cornbread Salad

• BBQ Bonanza: Cornbread Salad and BBQ go together like biscuits and gravy! Serve it up with some mouth-watering BBQ baby back ribs, honey BBQ wings, or BBQ meatballs.
• Beans and Greens: For a true Southern feast, pair this salad with a side of collard greens and a steaming pot of black-eyed peas or butter beans. The earthy, savory flavors of the greens and beans balance the richness of the salad.
• Southern Seafood Spread: Cornbread Salad pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes too. Try it alongside air fryer salmon, blackened catfish, or a low-country boil.
• Picnic Picks: For a casual outdoor gathering or picnic, serve this salad with finger-licking fried chicken, Italian beef grilled cheese, or savory elote corndogs. It’s a versatile side that’s sure to please in any relaxed, dining setting.

How To Store Cornbread Salad

After serving, if you have leftovers, just pop them in an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed well to keep the freshness in and any fridge odors out. Also, it’s best to store the salad in the main part of the fridge rather than the door, where temperatures can vary.

How Long Will Cornbread Salad Last In The Fridge?

In the fridge, your Southern cornbread salad will stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 5 days. Remember, the dressing will continue to absorb into the cornbread, so the texture might change a bit over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to make this salad a day ahead?

Making this salad a day ahead is not only okay, it’s actually a great idea! It gives the flavors more time to mingle. Just keep it in the fridge in an airtight container, and give it a gentle stir before serving. If it looks a little dry, you can always add a bit more dressing to freshen it up.

Can I use store-bought dressing for this salad?

If you’re short on time or just prefer convenience, a store-bought ranch or creamy buttermilk dressing will do just fine. Just remember to give it a good shake before drizzling it over your salad.

Can I add meat to this salad to make it a main dish?

Sure thing! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even leftover sliced steak can turn this side salad into a hearty main course. But make sure the meat is cooked and cooled before you add it in, so it keeps the salad nice and fresh.

This Cornbread Salad recipe is perfect for potlucks, family reunions, or when you’re just craving something downright delicious. It’s easy, quick, and sure to impress with its bold, creamy flavors and textures. So go ahead and try it! It’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about salad.

More Salad Recipes

• Shrimp Caesar Salad
• Harvest Fall Salad
• Creole Shrimp Egg Salad
• Baked Potato Salad
• Peach Salad
• Southern Potato Salad
• Cucumber and Onion Salad