Bacon-Topped Cornbread Recipe: A Southern Twist on a Classic
What’s better than a warm slice of cornbread? A warm slice of cornbread topped with crispy, golden bacon, of course! This bacon-topped cornbread is the perfect marriage of two Southern favorites, creating a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
The best part? It’s simple to make but guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re serving it alongside a pot of beans, ribs, or just eating it straight out of the skillet (we’ve all been there), this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
Cornbread and bacon are both staples of Southern cooking, so putting them together is a no-brainer. The bacon not only adds flavor but also keeps the cornbread incredibly moist. And when you flip the skillet over, you’re greeted with a beautiful golden-brown bacon crust that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a side dish for a big holiday meal.
Ingredients for Bacon-Topped Cornbread
- 6–8 slices thick-cut bacon (Wright’s or your favorite brand)
- Your favorite cornbread mix (enough for a 9-inch skillet) or homemade cornbread batter
How to Make Bacon-Topped Cornbread
1. Prepare the Bacon
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay the thick-cut bacon strips in a single layer across the bottom of a 9-inch cast iron skillet. Place the skillet in the oven and let the bacon cook for 7–10 minutes, or until it’s just starting to crisp but not fully cooked.
2. Add the Cornbread Batter
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it’ll be hot!) and pour your cornbread batter evenly over the bacon. Spread it out gently so it covers all the bacon.
3. Bake the Cornbread
Return the skillet to the oven and bake according to your cornbread recipe’s instructions, usually about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Flip and Serve
Once the cornbread is done, let it cool in the skillet for 5 minutes. Then, place a plate or serving dish over the skillet and carefully flip it over to release the cornbread. The bacon will now be beautifully displayed on top.
Tips for Perfect Bacon-Topped Cornbread
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thin bacon won’t hold up as well during cooking, so opt for thick slices to get that perfect crispy layer.
- Customize Your Cornbread: Add jalapeños, cheese, or a touch of honey to your cornbread batter for extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Cast Iron: A cast iron skillet is key for getting that perfect crust and for flipping the cornbread without sticking.
Why This Dish is a Southern Star
This bacon-topped cornbread recipe is everything you love about Southern cooking in one skillet. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent. Serve it alongside pinto beans, fried chicken, or a big bowl of chili for a meal that’ll have everyone at the table grinning from ear to ear.
And let’s be honest—when you flip that skillet and reveal that crispy, golden bacon on top, it’s a moment of pure kitchen magic. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, plain old cornbread just won’t cut it anymore.
