Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy breakfasts with our collection of 18 mouthwatering cornmeal mush recipes! Cornmeal mush has long been a staple in Southern cuisine, but we’ve taken it to new heights by incorporating a variety of flavors and ingredients. From classic combinations like bacon and maple syrup to more adventurous pairings like chorizo and coconut milk, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of creamy cornmeal mush, exploring everything from sweet and savory breakfast bowls to hearty skillets that are perfect for brunch or dinner. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick, rich cheese, or warm spices, we’ve got you covered with our diverse selection of recipes.
Southern-style corn meal mush with bacon and maple syrup
Get ready to start your day off right with this comforting and flavorful Southern-style corn meal mush, infused with the sweetness of maple syrup and the smokiness of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth consistency.
4. Stir in the crumbled bacon, butter, and maple syrup.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy jalapeño corn meal mush
Get ready to satisfy your snack attack with this addictive recipe! Cheesy jalapeño cornmeal mush is a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, cheese, and diced jalapeños.
3. Add milk and mix until the mixture forms a thick paste.
4. Stir in melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the mush is set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet cinnamon vanilla corn meal mush
A warm and comforting treat perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet snack to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together cornmeal, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add in the melted butter and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory garlic herb corn meal mush
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional cornmeal mush, infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a base for various toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, cheese (if using), parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy coconut milk corn meal mush
A comforting and creamy twist on traditional cornmeal mush, this recipe adds the richness of coconut milk to create a deliciously smooth breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, butter, and salt. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy chorizo and corn meal mush skillet
This recipe combines the spicy kick of chorizo with the comforting warmth of cornmeal mush, all wrapped up in a crispy skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cornmeal mush (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cornmeal mush and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple pecan corn meal mush breakfast bowl
Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast bowl featuring the sweet flavors of maple, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cornmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal mush (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: diced banana, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the cornmeal mush over low heat.
2. Stir in the maple syrup and butter until smooth.
3. Add the chopped pecans and a pinch of salt; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
5. Serve the maple pecan cornmeal mush warm, topped with your desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bacon and cheddar corn meal mush
This classic breakfast dish combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and warm cornmeal mush. Perfect for a cozy morning meal or brunch with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to medium.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until mushy and creamy, stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crumbled bacon and grated cheddar cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry almond corn meal mush
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat by making these moist and flavorful blueberry almond cornmeal muffins. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries with the nutty flavor of almonds and the warmth of cornmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries and almonds.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mexican-inspired corn meal mush with salsa and avocado
This flavorful dish combines the warmth of corn meal mush with the bold flavors of salsa and creamy avocado, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salsa
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornmeal and water until smooth.
2. Add oil, salt, cumin, and paprika; stir to combine.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and forms a mush-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in diced avocado.
5. Serve warm with salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown sugar banana corn meal mush
This hearty, comforting dish combines the sweetness of bananas and brown sugar with the earthy warmth of cornmeal. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine mashed bananas, brown sugar, and melted butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
3. Gradually add cornmeal, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
5. Remove from heat and stir in milk and salt.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Parmesan and rosemary corn meal mush
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of Parmesan and rosemary with creamy corn meal mush. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the cornmeal and stir until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and rosemary until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish or individual ramekins.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin spice corn meal mush
This comforting side dish combines the flavors of pumpkin, cornmeal, and spices to create a deliciously warm and inviting accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cornmeal and milk until smooth.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked gouda and chive corn meal mush
A creamy, savory twist on traditional cornmeal mush, elevated by the rich flavors of smoked gouda and chives.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole kernel cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup smoked Gouda cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the grated smoked Gouda, softened butter, and chopped chives until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Apple cinnamon raisin corn meal mush
This sweet and satisfying breakfast or snack recipe combines the warmth of apple and cinnamon with the comforting texture of cornmeal mush. Perfect for a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to medium.
2. Cook for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the sugar, raisins, melted butter, diced apple, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the mush has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Savory mushroom and thyme corn meal mush
This comforting side dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and thyme with the warm, creamy richness of corn meal mush. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a accompaniment to roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup corn meal
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake)
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the corn meal and reduce heat to low.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mush thickens.
3. Add the butter, mushrooms, and thyme. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey walnut corn meal mush
A warm, comforting bowl of honey walnut corn meal mush is the perfect way to start your day or a cozy evening treat. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the crunch of walnuts and the creaminess of cornmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to medium.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
4. Stir in the honey, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional walnuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy shrimp and grits-style corn meal mush
This recipe combines the comfort of traditional grits with the spicy kick of Cajun cuisine, featuring succulent shrimp and a creamy cornmeal mush.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan; gradually whisk in cornmeal and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until mush thickens.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in the cooked cornmeal mush and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of cornmeal mush with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Southern-style comfort food to bold and spicy twists, there’s something for everyone. Try adding crispy bacon and maple syrup for a sweet and savory treat, or kick things up with jalapeños and cheese. You can also add a hint of cinnamon and vanilla for a sweet breakfast option, or go global with chorizo and salsa. With so many flavors to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these creamy cornmeal mush recipes!