Are you craving a warm, comforting side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further! This recipe elevates the classic Krusteaz cornbread mix to new heights, creating a moist, flavorful cornbread that’s perfect alongside chili, soups, or simply enjoyed on its own. Forget those dry, crumbly cornbread disasters – this recipe guarantees a perfect result every time, making it one of the best recipes for a quick dinner side. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, proving that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) Krusteaz Cornbread Mix
- 1 ¼ cups milk (whole milk recommended for extra richness)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- Optional additions:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped jalapeños
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan with butter. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring a perfectly golden-brown crust.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined. Ensure the butter is completely melted to avoid lumps in your batter.
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Mix the Batter: Add the Krusteaz cornbread mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cornbread, so be careful not to overwork the batter. If adding cheese, jalapeños, or chives, stir them in now.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last 5 minutes – ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into neat squares. Enjoy warm!
Tips for the Perfect Krusteaz Cornbread:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cornbread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness and moisture. If using a lower-fat milk, you may want to add a tablespoon or two of melted butter for extra moisture.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. Every oven is different, so it’s best to check early to avoid overbaking.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Experiment with different add-ins like corn kernels, bacon bits, or different types of cheese to create your own unique variations.
Variations:
- Spicy Cornbread: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Cornbread: Increase the cheese to 1 cup for an extra cheesy treat.
- Sweet Cornbread: Add ¼ cup of granulated sugar to the batter for a slightly sweeter cornbread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without add-ins):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious homemade cornbread. Whether you're looking for healthy meals or simple side dishes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a perfect example of how delicious dishes can be made quickly and easily, adding to your repertoire of best recipes without requiring extensive culinary skills. Enjoy!