When you’re left with a few slices of stale cornbread, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. But fear not! With a little creativity, those leftover crumbs can be transformed into a wide range of delicious treats. From savory breakfast dishes to sweet indulgences, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering recipes that will breathe new life into your humble leftovers. Whether you’re looking for a tasty twist on traditional cornbread or just want to get creative with your meal planning, these innovative ideas are sure to inspire.
Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Herbs
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory cornbread stuffing, infused with the flavors of sausage and herbs. This comforting side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add melted butter, onion, garlic, sage, and poultry seasoning to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, sausage mixture, and chicken broth. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Croutons for Salads and Soups
Add a delightful textural element to your favorite salads and soups with these easy-to-make cornbread croutons. Perfect for topping green salads, soups, or using as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cornbread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss the cubed cornbread with olive oil, salt, and any desired additional seasonings until evenly coated.
3. Spread the crouton mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted and crispy.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Pudding with Vanilla and Cinnamon
This sweet cornbread pudding is infused with the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornbread mix, milk, heavy cream, and egg until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and cinnamon; stir until combined.
4. Pour in melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish or a 1-quart soufflé dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pudding is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast casserole that combines the warmth of cornbread, the richness of eggs, and the creaminess of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk and cornbread mix until just combined.
3. Add eggs and stir until well incorporated.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, and cooked bacon (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread French Toast with Maple Syrup
Cornbread French Toast with Maple Syrup is a unique and delicious morning treat that combines the warmth of cornbread with the fluffiness of French toast, topped with the richness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 cups of cornbread mix
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (warm or at room temperature)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
2. Add the cornbread mix to the mixture and stir until just combined.
3. Dip each bread slice into the cornbread mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Chili Pie with Ground Beef
Elevate your chili game with this comforting pie that combines the flavors of ground beef, cornbread, and rich chili. Perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with water to form a thick batter.
6. Pour cooked ground beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with cornbread batter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and chili is hot and bubbly.
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
This rich dessert combines the warmth of cornbread with the indulgence of bourbon, perfect for a cozy night in. Moist bread pudding meets sweet and tangy bourbon sauce in this delightful treat.
Ingredients:
For the bread pudding:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the bourbon sauce:
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornbread, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. For the bourbon sauce, combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced by half.
Cooking Time: Bread pudding: 35-40 minutes; Bourbon sauce: 10-15 minutes
Cornbread Waffles with Honey Butter
A twist on traditional waffles, these cornbread waffles are infused with the warmth of honey and a hint of spice. Perfect for brunch or breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Honey, for serving (optional)
– Fresh herbs, such as chives or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve with honey butter (mix softened butter with honey) and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes per waffle
Cornbread Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze
Take your meatloaf game to the next level by combining the comfort of cornbread with the rich flavors of a classic BBQ glaze. This unique twist is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cornbread mix, onion, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Shape into a loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle BBQ glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cornbread Pancakes with Fresh Berries
Start your day with a warm and satisfying breakfast that combines the best of both worlds – fluffy cornbread pancakes and fresh berries. This sweet treat is perfect for a relaxing morning or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with fresh berries and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornbread Crumble Topping for Casseroles
Elevate your casserole game with this crispy cornbread crumble topping, adding a delightful textural contrast to any dish. This easy-to-make topping is perfect for casseroles, soups, or even as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3 tablespoons heavy cream or buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Stir in heavy cream or buttermilk until mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto casserole (or desired surface). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Ice Cream Sandwich with Caramel Drizzle
Take a classic ice cream sandwich to the next level with this unique fusion of warm cornbread and creamy cold ice cream, topped with a drizzle of caramel goodness. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite vanilla ice cream
– 4-6 slices of warm cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup of caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
2. Place a warm cornbread slice on a flat surface.
3. Place an ice cream ball in the center of the cornbread.
4. Top with another cornbread slice to create a sandwich.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each sandwich.
6. Optional: Add whipped cream and chopped nuts or sprinkles for extra flair.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on how quickly you can assemble the sandwiches!)
Cornbread Muffins with Jalapeño and Cheese
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the warmth of cornbread with the spicy kick of jalapeños and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect as a snack or side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped jalapeño and shredded cheese.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cornbread Taco Bake with Black Beans
This hearty, comforting dish combines the flavors of a classic taco bake with the warmth of cornbread and the added nutrition of black beans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef according to package instructions; drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with 1/2 cup water.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the cornbread mixture in the bottom of the dish.
5. Top with ground beef mixture, black beans, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese.
6. Repeat layers: cornbread mixture, remaining ground beef mixture, black beans, and enchilada sauce.
7. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread Dumplings for Stews
Elevate your stew game with these tender and flavorful cornbread dumplings! Perfect for a comforting meal, they’re easy to make and add a delightful texture to any stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cornbread Parfait with Whipped Cream
This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread with the lightness of whipped cream, creating a unique dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread crumbs
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (such as strawberries or blueberries), for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the whipped cream, mixing well.
3. Layer the cornbread crumbs and whipped cream in a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Garnish with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly process that requires no cooking at all.
Cornbread Pizza Crust with Toppings
Elevate your pizza game with this unique cornbread crust, perfect for a twist on traditional pizza night. This recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the flavors of your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., shredded cheese, sliced meats, vegetables)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a 12-inch pizza pan or cast-iron skillet.
6. Top with your desired toppings and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread Cookies with Chocolate Chips
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of cornbread with the richness of chocolate chips, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover cornbread! From savory dishes to sweet treats, these 18 delicious recipes will inspire you to think outside the box. Turn your cornbread into stuffing with sausage and herbs, or use it as croutons for salads and soups. Make a pudding with vanilla and cinnamon, or transform it into a breakfast casserole with eggs and cheese. These innovative ideas will make your cornbread disappear in no time!