Description
This Chili Cornbread Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that turns pantry staples into a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for potlucks, summer barbecues, or hearty weekday meals. Crumbly sweet cornbread layered with smoky bacon, hearty beans, crisp vegetables, cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing—it’s comfort food meets colorful freshness. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast prep ideas, easy dinner recipes, or unique food ideas to impress, this easy recipe checks every box.
Ingredients
3 cups crumbled cornbread
1 cup canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3/4 cup ranch dressing
Instructions
1. Bake your cornbread ahead of time and let it cool completely. Crumble into medium chunks.
2. Cook bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels, and crumble when cooled.
3. Rinse and drain both kidney and black beans, and set them aside to dry.
4. Slice cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, chop red onions and cilantro.
5. Begin layering the salad in a large glass bowl or trifle dish: start with half the crumbled cornbread.
6. Add a layer of beans, then bacon, vegetables, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of dressing.
7. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with cheese, bacon, and cilantro on top.
8. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
9. Serve cold and enjoy the layered flavors and textures!
Notes
Let the cornbread sit overnight for a firmer, crumble-friendly texture.
Layer instead of mixing to keep the presentation clean and ingredients intact.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the ranch dressing for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Layered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 32mg
Keywords: chili cornbread salad, easy dinner, potluck ideas, layered salad, summer recipes