Southern Cornbread Recipe

The Ultimate Southern Cornbread Recipe: Classic, Simple, and Delicious

Southern Cornbread Recipe is more than just a side dish, it’s a staple of Southern cuisine, beloved for its golden crust, tender crumb, and rich flavor. Whether served with a hearty bowl of chili, alongside fried chicken, or simply enjoyed on its own with a dollop of butter, cornbread holds a special place in Southern cooking traditions.

This guide will walk you through the perfect old fashioned cornbread recipe, explore the unique use of beef tallow, and show you how to make a quick and easy 3 ingredient cornbread​ for busy days. We’ll also highlight how using white lily cornbread recipe​ can take your cornbread to the next level.

Why Southern Cornbread is Special

Southern cornbread stands out because of its simplicity, rustic texture, and use of authentic ingredients. Unlike sweet, cake-like cornbread varieties common in other regions, Southern cornbread is savory, relying on cornmeal, buttermilk, and sometimes a dash of fat to achieve its classic flavor.

One of the secrets to truly authentic Southern cornbread is the use of a cast-iron skillet. Preheating the skillet before pouring in the batter ensures a crispy, golden crust that’s hard to resist. Another unique twist? Using beef tallow as the fat for both flavor and texture—it’s a game-changer!

southern cornbread recipe beef tallow​

This recipe combines tradition with bold flavors, giving you cornbread that’s crispy on the outside and moist on the inside. The addition of beef tallow not only enhances the flavor but also creates an irresistible golden crust.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal (preferably White Lily Cornmeal for the best texture)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon beef tallow (plus extra for greasing the skillet)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425°F. Add a small amount of beef tallow to the skillet so it melts while the oven preheats.
2. Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, salt, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the tablespoon of melted beef tallow for added richness.
3. Bake the Cornbread: Carefully pour the batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as the batter hits the pan—this step is crucial for that iconic Southern crust! Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or your favorite side dishes.

Quick and Easy 3 Ingredient Cornbread

For those days when you need something quick and fuss-free, this 3-ingredient cornbread recipe is a lifesaver. It’s simple, yet still delivers on flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup self-rising cornmeal (White Lily works best)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
2. Mix the self-rising cornmeal, buttermilk, and egg in a bowl until well combined.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

That’s it! Three ingredients and you have a cornbread that’s perfect for pairing with any meal.

Why Use White Lily Cornmeal?

For Southern cooks, White Lily Cornmeal is the gold standard. Its fine texture and premium quality ensure your cornbread is soft, tender, and authentically Southern. Unlike coarser cornmeal brands, White Lily delivers a delicate crumb while still giving you that signature cornbread texture. Pair it with beef tallow, and you’ve got a recipe destined to become a family favorite.

Tips for Perfect Southern Cornbread Recipe

1. Preheat Your Skillet: Always preheat your cast-iron skillet before adding the batter. This step is essential for creating the crispy crust that Southern cornbread is known for.
2. Use Full-Fat Ingredients: Whether it’s buttermilk or beef tallow, using full-fat ingredients ensures rich flavor and a moist crumb.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make your cornbread dense and tough.
4. Experiment with Add-Ins: While traditional Southern cornbread is simple, you can add a twist by mixing in chopped jalapeños, shredded cheese, or even crispy bacon bits.

Serving Suggestions for Southern Cornbread

Southern cornbread is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular ways to enjoy it:

• With Chili: Serve warm cornbread alongside a bowl of hearty chili for the ultimate comfort food pairing.
• Topped with Butter or Honey: While Southern cornbread isn’t traditionally sweet, a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter can add a delicious touch.
• Crumbled in Buttermilk: A classic Southern snack involves crumbling leftover cornbread into a glass of buttermilk—it’s surprisingly refreshing and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Southern cornbread is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition that’s been passed down through generations. Whether you opt for the robust flavor of beef tallow, the simplicity of 3-ingredient cornbread, or the premium quality of White Lily Cornmeal, this dish is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

So grab your cast-iron skillet and try one of these variations today. Not only will you be treating your family to a taste of the South, but you’ll also be carrying on a tradition that’s as comforting as it is delicious.