Spoonbread with Vegetables, Cheese, and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Spoonbread is a comforting Southern dish that combines creamy cornmeal pudding with savory vegetables, cheese, and fresh herbs. Baked to a golden brown, this moist, fluffy bread is perfect as a side dish or a warm snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups (454g) milk
- 3/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1/2 cup (78g) yellow cornmeal
- 3 large eggs
Add-ins and Flavorings
- 1 cup combined vegetables (corn kernels, scallions, diced onion, roasted red peppers, pickled jalapeños)
- 1 cup (113g) cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs, chopped (chives, thyme, rosemary or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Grease a 1-quart casserole dish, a 9-inch cast iron skillet, or an 8-inch square pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook Cornmeal Base: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, salt, and cornmeal. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens thoroughly and boils all the way through to the center. This creates a smooth and creamy base. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow it to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
- Add Eggs: When the cornmeal mixture is lukewarm, stir in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each egg before adding the next to maintain a smooth texture.
- Mix Vegetables, Cheese, and Herbs: Stir in your selected vegetables, then fold in the grated cheese and chopped fresh herbs to distribute flavor evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Spoonbread: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top and edges turn golden brown and the center is just set but still moist.
- Serve and Store: Remove from the oven and serve warm as a comforting side dish. Cover any leftovers and store in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Notes
- For best texture, ensure the cornmeal mixture is fully thickened before adding eggs.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables and herbs based on seasonal availability or preference.
- Use a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation and slightly crispier edges.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a microwave or oven for optimal warmth and texture.
Keywords: Spoonbread, Cornmeal Bread, Southern Recipe, Baked Cornbread, Vegetable Spoonbread, Comfort Food
