Chili Cornbread Salad

Chili Cornbread Salad

A co-worker brought this wonderful dish to a potluck several years ago. She had copies of the recipe next to the pan. Now I make it for get-togethers and also supply copies of the recipe. I never have any leftover salad or recipes. —Kelly Newsom, Jenks, Oklahoma

Ingredients

  • cornbread/muffin mix
    1 package
  • chopped green chiles

    undrained

    1 can
  • ground cumin
    ⅛ tsp
  • dried oregano
    ⅛ tsp
  • rubbed sage
  • mayonnaise
    1 c
  • sour cream
    1 c
  • envelope ranch salad dressing mix
    1
  • pinto beans

    rinsed and drained

    2 cans
  • whole kernel corn

    drained

    2 cans
  • tomatoes

    chopped

    3 medium
  • chopped green pepper
    1 c
  • chopped green onions
    1 c
  • bacon strips

    cooked and crumbled

    10
  • shredded cheddar cheese
    2 c

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare cornbread batter according to package directions. Stir in chiles, cumin, oregano and sage. Spread in a greased 8-in. square baking pan. Bake at 400° until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 20-25 minutes. Cool.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream and dressing mix; set aside. Crumble half of the cornbread into a 13x9-in. dish. Layer with half of the beans, mayonnaise mixture, corn, tomatoes, green pepper, onions, bacon and cheese. Repeat layers (dish will be very full). Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Chili Cornbread Salad

Chili Cornbread Salad

4.9(49)383 cal

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 49 ratings

tasteofhome.com
4.9(49 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Looking for that potluck favorite everyone raves about? This Chili Cornbread Salad is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a vibrant medley of flavors and textures that will have guests asking for the recipe. It's a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special, making it perfect for your next gathering.

This recipe works wonders because it combines the hearty comfort of chili-spiced cornbread with the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing. The clever addition of chopped green chiles, cumin, oregano, and rubbed sage to the cornbread mix creates a savory foundation that perfectly complements the fresh components. It’s an easy assembly that delivers big on taste.

Expect a satisfying dish that balances savory, fresh, and creamy elements in every bite. The base of flavorful cornbread provides a tender contrast to the crisp bell peppers and sweet corn. You'll taste the earthy notes of pinto beans, the bright freshness of tomatoes and green onions, all brought together by a rich, zesty dressing and smoky bacon. Served chilled, this colorful salad is both hearty enough for a light lunch and refreshing as a side dish.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to adapt this versatile Chili Cornbread Salad to your pantry or preferences:

  • Beans: Swap pinto beans for black beans or kidney beans for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Vegetables: Consider adding diced avocado for extra creaminess or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for herbaceous brightness.
  • Spicy Kick: For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cornbread mix or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
  • Vegetarian Option: Simply omit the bacon for a delicious meat-free version.

This vibrant salad shines at potlucks, barbecues, and family get-togethers. Serve it as a standout side dish or as a satisfying main course for a casual lunch. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes, promising to be the first to disappear from the table.

Frequently Asked Questions