Cajun Blackened Catfish with Cornbread

Introduction

Classic Southern Cornbread is a timeless staple of Southern cooking, known for its golden crust, tender crumb, and comforting flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients like cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and butter, this bread embodies rustic charm and home-style goodness. Traditionally baked in a cast-iron skillet, cornbread develops a beautiful crispy edge while staying soft and moist inside — the perfect balance of textures.

What makes Southern cornbread so special is its versatility. It can be served as a side with hearty dishes like chili, barbecue, fried chicken, or collard greens, but it’s equally satisfying enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter or drizzle of honey. Whether served at Sunday suppers, holiday feasts, or weeknight dinners, cornbread brings warmth, tradition, and a touch of Southern hospitality to every table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Classic Southern Cornbread because it’s one of those rare recipes that manages to be humble yet unforgettable. With just a handful of simple pantry ingredients, you get a golden bread that’s crisp on the outside, soft and tender inside, and full of warmth and comfort.

For me, cornbread is more than just food — it’s tradition and nostalgia. It reminds me of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and big bowls of chili or barbecue shared around the table. The balance of flavors is what makes it special: it has just enough sweetness to highlight the natural nuttiness of cornmeal, but it’s still savory enough to pair beautifully with hearty dishes.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Classic Southern Cornbread is a must-try dish because it represents the very heart of Southern comfort cooking. It’s simple, timeless, and deeply satisfying — the kind of food that brings people together at the table.

• A True Classic: Cornbread has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, and making it connects you with that rich culinary tradition.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, it proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated.
• Perfect Balance: The crispy edges and moist, tender crumb give it a texture unlike any other bread.
• Versatile Pairing: It pairs beautifully with everything — from chili and barbecue to fried chicken and collard greens — while also tasting amazing on its own with a pat of butter or drizzle of honey.
• Endlessly Adaptable: Once you master the classic, you can try variations like cheesy cornbread, jalapeño cornbread, or sweetened versions.

Time, Servings & Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 wedges or squares
• Calories: ~180 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Southern American
• Course: Side dish / Bread

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar/lemon juice)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing skillet/pan)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven and grease a skillet or baking pan with butter.
2. Mix dry ingredients together.
3. Mix wet ingredients separately.
4. Combine wet and dry, stir until just mixed.
5. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or 8-inch baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Pour batter into prepared skillet/pan.
6. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and edges are crisp.
7. Cool slightly before slicing into wedges or squares.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.
• Pairs perfectly with chili, barbecue, fried chicken, or Cajun dishes.
• Crumble leftovers into soups or salads.

Additional Recipe Tips

• For extra flavor, preheat the skillet with butter in the oven before adding the batter.
• Don’t overmix — a few lumps in the batter are fine.
• Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.

Variations

• Cheesy Cornbread: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar.
• Sweet Cornbread: Increase sugar to ½ cup.
• Savory Twist: Add jalapeños and corn kernels.
• Herbed Cornbread: Add fresh rosemary or thyme.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave with a damp paper towel.

Special Equipment Needed

• Cast-iron skillet (preferred) or baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk & spatula

Conclusion

Classic Southern Cornbread is a simple yet irresistible recipe that belongs on every dinner table. With its golden crust, fluffy center, and endless variations, it’s the perfect companion for savory dishes or a comforting snack on its own. Quick, easy, and satisfying, this cornbread recipe is one you’ll come back to time and time again.