Beans and cornbread is a classic Southern-style comfort meal loved for its hearty flavor, simplicity, and affordability. Tender seasoned beans paired with warm buttery cornbread create a satisfying homemade dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Cast iron skillet or baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Beans
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 6 cups water
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- Optional: cooked bacon or ham pieces
For the Cornbread
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
Ingredient Notes
- Pinto Beans: Traditional choice for rich flavor and creamy texture.
- Cornmeal: Gives authentic cornbread taste.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds warmth and smoky flavor.
- Bacon or Ham: Optional for extra savory richness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse and sort beans. Soak overnight or use a quick-soak method if desired.
Step 2: Cook the Beans
Place beans in a large pot with water. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and butter.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1½ hours or until beans are tender.
Step 3: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Make the Cornbread Batter
In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cornbread
Pour batter into a greased skillet or baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm beans with slices of cornbread.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 6g
Tips
- Simmer beans slowly for the best texture.
- Add hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Use cast iron for crispier cornbread edges.
- Leftover beans taste even better the next day.
Variations
Southern Style
Add smoked ham hock or bacon to the beans.
Spicy Beans
Stir in jalapeños or chili powder.
Sweet Cornbread
Add extra sugar or honey.
Cheesy Cornbread
Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the batter.
Vegetarian Version
Use vegetable broth and skip the meat.