Welcome to a culinary adventure that promises to become your family’s new obsession: Cornbread Pizza! Imagine the comforting warmth of a golden cornbread crust, topped with savory ground beef, vibrant onions and peppers, rich pizza sauce, a generous layer of melted cheese, and classic pepperoni slices. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a delightful fusion of Southern comfort and Italian-American staple, designed to bring joy and flavor to your table with minimal fuss.

Disclosure: This post is proudly sponsored by Martha White. As always, all opinions and the enthusiasm for this recipe are genuinely my own.

Irresistible Skillet Cornbread Pizza: A Unique Southern Twist on a Family Favorite

Are you searching for a meal that breaks free from the routine, yet still feels incredibly familiar and comforting? Look no further than our incredible Skillet Cornbread Pizza. This recipe takes everything you love about classic pizza and marries it with the wholesome, slightly sweet, and utterly satisfying texture of cornbread. It’s a dish that perfectly balances savory and comforting, making it an instant hit with both adults and children alike. Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a fun and memorable feast!

A Culinary Celebration: The National Cornbread Festival Inspiration

Every year, as spring blossoms, the charming town of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, comes alive with the aroma of freshly baked cornbread, hosting the beloved National Cornbread Festival. This annual event, typically held in April, is a true celebration of Southern culinary heritage and community spirit. Having had the immense pleasure of visiting the festival on several occasions, I can personally attest to its magic. The town truly rolls out the red carpet, offering visitors a warm, heartfelt welcome that’s as comforting as a slice of homemade cornbread itself. It’s a wonderful experience for families, filled with fun, food, and genuine Southern hospitality.

The spirit of this festival, with its emphasis on innovation and the timeless appeal of cornbread, is what inspired me to create this very recipe. Each year, I challenge myself to craft a new cornbread-inspired dish, and this year, the vision of a pizza with a cornbread base struck me as pure genius. It’s my way of participating in the joy and creativity that the festival embodies, bringing a little piece of that Southern charm right into your kitchen. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a tribute to the humble yet versatile cornbread and the vibrant culture it represents.

Why You’ll Love This Cast Iron Skillet Pizza

This year’s creation, the Cast Iron Skillet Pizza, has truly outdone itself. It’s a recipe that resonated deeply with my family, especially my son, who declared it an instant favorite. I must confess, I’m incredibly pleased with how perfectly it turned out – a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will surprise and delight your palate. I genuinely hope you and your loved ones enjoy it as much as we do!

Utilizing a cast iron skillet for this pizza isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a secret weapon for achieving culinary perfection. Cast iron is renowned for its exceptional heat retention and even distribution, which is crucial for baking a cornbread crust that’s gloriously golden and crispy on the outside, yet tender and moist on the inside. It imparts a unique depth of flavor and a beautiful rustic presentation that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it transitions seamlessly from oven to table, making serving a breeze. This is truly a one-pan wonder that delivers on both taste and convenience.

Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Cornbread Pizza

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering cornbread pizza. Here’s what you’ll need to make this unforgettable family meal:

• **Cornbread Mix:** A package of Martha White Buttermilk Cornbread Mix ensures a consistently delicious and easy-to-prepare crust.
• **Water:** To combine with your cornbread mix.
• **Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese:** This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy, mild flavor. Feel free to use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar, or even mozzarella for a classic pizza taste. (Divided use: some for the crust, most for the topping!)
• **Italian Seasoning:** A classic blend of herbs that infuses the cornbread crust with savory, aromatic notes, perfectly complementing the pizza toppings.
• **Ground Beef:** The hearty foundation of our pizza topping. Lean ground beef works well, but any kind will do; just be sure to drain excess fat.
• **Small Onion:** Diced finely, it adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
• **Green Pepper:** Diced, it brings a fresh crunch and mild peppery flavor to the topping.
• **Salt and Pepper:** Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the ground beef and vegetables.
• **Pizza Sauce:** Your favorite jarred pizza sauce will provide that essential tangy and rich tomato flavor.
• **Pepperoni Slices:** The classic pizza topping that adds a salty, slightly spicy kick and a familiar texture.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Skillet Cornbread Pizza

Making this skillet cornbread pizza is simpler than you might think, and the process is incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy steps to bring this family favorite to life:

1. **Prepare the Oven and Skillet:** Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cornbread crust bakes evenly and quickly. Take a 10-inch cast iron skillet and liberally spray it with Crisco no-stick cooking spray. A well-greased skillet is key to preventing the cornbread from sticking and helps create that desirable crispy edge.
2. **Mix the Cornbread Batter:** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix with the specified amount of water. Whisk these ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing cornbread batter can lead to a tough crust, so stop as soon as there are no dry streaks. Then, stir in ¼ cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and the Italian seasoning. This adds flavor directly into the crust, making it even more delicious.




3. **Bake the Cornbread Crust:** Pour the prepared cornbread mixture into the greased cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Place the skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This initial bake creates a sturdy, flavorful base that can hold up to all the delicious toppings.




4. **Prepare the Savory Topping:** While your cornbread crust is baking, start on the pizza topping. In a large separate skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and green pepper. Cook, breaking up the ground beef with a spoon, until the beef is thoroughly browned and the vegetables are softened. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent a soggy pizza. Return the mixture to the pan, then stir in the pizza sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.







5. **Assemble Your Pizza:** Once the cornbread crust has finished its initial bake, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Spread the savory beef and pizza sauce mixture evenly over the warm cornbread crust. Ensure the topping covers the entire surface for a balanced flavor in every bite.







6. **Add the Finishing Touches:** Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese generously over the beef mixture. Then, arrange the pepperoni slices on top. This creates a beautiful visual and ensures every slice is packed with flavor.




7. **Final Bake and Serve:** Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni slices are slightly crispy at the edges. Once done, carefully remove from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Due to its hearty nature, this pizza is often easiest and most enjoyable to eat with a fork!

Customization & Variations: Make It Your Own!

One of the best things about this skillet cornbread pizza is its versatility! While the classic ground beef and pepperoni topping is a surefire winner, don’t hesitate to get creative and tailor it to your family’s preferences:

• **Protein Power-Ups:** Instead of ground beef, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Cooked crumbled sausage (mild or spicy Italian) would also be fantastic, adding an extra layer of savory flavor. For a vegetarian twist, sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini, or add a can of drained black beans to the pizza sauce mixture.
• **Veggie Ventures:** Load up on your favorite vegetables! Sliced black olives, diced bell peppers of various colors, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of fresh spinach can be added with the cheese before the final bake. For a bolder flavor, try adding some pickled jalapeños or banana peppers.
• **Cheese Choices:** Monterey Jack provides a lovely melt, but a sharp cheddar, a smoky provolone, or a classic mozzarella blend would work just as well, each offering a slightly different character to your pizza.
• **Spice It Up:** If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the pizza sauce or sprinkle them over the top with the pepperoni.
• **Herbacious Additions:** A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano after the pizza comes out of the oven can add a wonderful aromatic finish.

This recipe truly is a blank canvas for your culinary imagination. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your family’s perfect cornbread pizza combination!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cornbread Pizza

Can I use a different type of skillet?

While a 10-inch cast iron skillet is highly recommended for its even heating and ability to create a crispy crust, you can use any oven-safe 10-inch round baking dish or pie plate. Just ensure it’s well-greased, and keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the ground beef and vegetable topping mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, simply reheat the topping before spreading it over the freshly baked cornbread crust.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover cornbread pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for quick warming, but for best results (to retain some crispiness), reheat slices in a conventional oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What can I serve with Cornbread Pizza?

This hearty pizza is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A side of coleslaw or steamed green beans would also complement the flavors nicely.

Is this recipe spicy?

As written, the recipe is not spicy. The only “spice” comes from the Italian seasoning and pepperoni. If you prefer a spicier pizza, you can add red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture, use spicy sausage, or incorporate some diced jalapeños.

Craving More Southern Comfort? Explore These Related Recipes!

If this Skillet Cornbread Pizza has sparked your love for creative comfort food, then you’ll definitely want to explore more delicious recipes that offer a similar hearty and flavorful experience. From savory bakes to unique twists on classics, these dishes are perfect for family dinners and gatherings:

• Cornbread Taco Bake
• Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole
• Tamale Pie
• Mexican Cornbread
• White Chicken Enchiladas
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pizza
• Mexican Pizza
• Sweet Southern Cornbread
• Easy Pizza Pasta
• Breakfast Pizza
• Copycat Blaze White Top Pizza
• Cornbread Muffins

Skillet Cornbread Pizza

Cornbread Pizza will be a new family favorite! Ground beef, onion, pepper, pizza sauce, melted cheese and pepperoni all on a cornbread crust!

Rating: 5 Stars (5 Reviews)

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 8
Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 6 ounce packet Martha White Buttermilk Cornbread mix
• ⅔ cup water
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided use)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 14 ounce jar pizza sauce
• Pepperoni slices

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray a 10-inch cast iron skillet with Crisco no-stick cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cornbread mix with water. Stir in ¼ cup shredded cheese and Italian seasoning.
3. Pour mixture into skillet and bake for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble ground beef along with onion and pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease and put back into the pan. Stir in pizza sauce.
5. Once cornbread has finished baking, spread beef mixture on top in an even layer.
6. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and top with pepperoni slices.
7. Place back in oven and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
8. Slice it into wedges and serve! This is easiest to eat with a fork.

Nutrition

Calories: 237 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 2g |
Protein: 16g |
Fat: 17g |
Sodium: 217mg |
Sugar: 1g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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