Description
Potluck Cornbread Salad is a bold and flavorful Southern side dish that combines crumbled cornbread with pinto beans, corn, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing. This make-ahead, layered salad is perfect for gatherings and brings a delightful mix of textures and tangy flavors that meld beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups crumbled cornbread (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
Dressing
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix until the texture is smooth and well combined. Set the dressing aside.
- Layer the Salad – First Half: In a large trifle bowl or clear serving dish, spread half of the crumbled cornbread evenly across the bottom. Layer half of the pinto beans on top, followed by half the corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon if using.
- Add Dressing Layer: Spoon half of the ranch dressing mixture evenly over the first set of layers, ensuring good coverage to incorporate flavor throughout the salad.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining cornbread, pinto beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, green onions, cheese, and bacon to build the second half of the salad.
- Top with Remaining Dressing: Pour the remaining ranch dressing over the top layer of the salad, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and the salad to set, improving its taste and texture.
- Serve: Serve the salad cold or at room temperature as a flavorful side dish perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Notes
- Best served cold or at room temperature to enjoy the full depth of flavors.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon.
- Use jalapeño cornbread for a spicy kick.
- Add diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess.
