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–+ servings
Golden old-fashioned Southern cornbread baked in a cast iron skillet with one slice cut out and a pat of butter melting on top in a bright farmhouse kitchen.

🧈 Old-Fashioned Cornbread (Just Like Grandma Made)

This old-fashioned Southern cornbread is everything a classic should be — golden on the outside, soft and tender on the inside, and baked in a hot cast iron skillet for that signature crispy edge. Made with simple pantry staples and no added sugar, it delivers rich corn flavor and a rustic, homemade texture just like Grandma used to make. Perfect alongside beans, chili, greens, or any hearty Southern meal, this comforting skillet cornbread is easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern Cooking
Servings 8
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • 9-inch cast iron skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • oven mitts

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups yellow cornmeal
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons bacon grease or vegetable oil for the skillet

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the cast iron skillet in the oven while it heats. Add the bacon grease or oil to the skillet so it gets hot and sizzling.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Stir in the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until just combined. The batter will be slightly thick.
  • Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and swirl the grease to coat the bottom. Pour the batter into the skillet — it should sizzle immediately.
  • Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm with butter, beans, or your favorite Southern dinner.

Notes

Nutritional values provided are estimates only and are calculated based on general nutritional data for the listed ingredients. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands, measurements, and preparation methods used. For precise dietary information, please consult a registered dietitian or use a verified nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients you use.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 190mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 220IUCalcium: 95mgIron: 2mg
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