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Classic Southern Cornbread Salad - Traditional Layered Recipe

This Classic Southern Cornbread Salad is the ultimate comfort food side dish that brings together all the flavors of the South in one beautiful layered presentation. Perfect for summer BBQs, family picnics, or any gathering where you want to serve something truly special.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices turkey ham, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, combine milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Pour into greased 8-inch square baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch dressing mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. In a large trifle bowl or clear glass serving dish, start with half of the crumbled cornbread as base layer. Top with half of the pinto beans, followed by half of the corn. Spread about one-third of the dressing mixture over the corn layer. Continue with layers of tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, and turkey ham. Add remaining cornbread, then the rest of the beans and corn. Spread remaining dressing over the top.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

This salad tastes better when made a day in advance. The cornbread soaks up the dressing and flavors develop beautifully overnight. For extra flavor, try adding chili powder or smoked paprika to cornbread batter. Use a large spoon to scoop through all layers when serving.