hot honey chicken sandwich

Cornbread BBQ Sandwich – it’s a taste of the South, right in your hands! Imagine fluffy, slightly sweet cornbread hugging a pile of smoky, tangy barbecue. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out, perfect for a casual lunch, a family picnic, or a laid-back dinner.

Growing up, BBQ was a staple at every family gathering. My dad would always be manning the smoker, and the smell of woodsmoke and slow-cooked meat filled the air. My grandma, bless her heart, always made a batch of her famous cornbread. One day, I decided to combine the two, and the Cornbread BBQ Sandwich was born! It’s a simple twist, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. It’s comfort food at its finest, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s a fun, unexpected way to enjoy two classic dishes in one delicious bite.

This sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions, all wrapped up in a convenient, handheld package. It’s the perfect way to bring a little bit of that Southern charm to your own kitchen, no matter where you are.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Cornbread BBQ Sandwich

Okay, let’s talk about why this sandwich is about to become your new favorite. As a busy mom, I’m all about meals that are quick, easy, and satisfying. This Cornbread BBQ Sandwich ticks all the boxes!

• It’s a Flavor Explosion: The sweetness of the cornbread perfectly complements the smoky, tangy barbecue. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
• Super Easy to Make: Seriously, if you can make cornbread and barbecue, you can make this sandwich. I’m all about keeping things simple in the kitchen.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick lunch, a picnic in the park, or a casual dinner with the family, this sandwich is always a hit.
• Kid-Friendly: Even my picky daughter, Sophia, loves this sandwich. The sweetness of the cornbread makes it a winner with the little ones.
• Customizable: Use your favorite BBQ sauce, add some coleslaw for crunch, or even throw in some jalapenos for a spicy kick. Make it your own!

Key Ingredients for the Best Cornbread BBQ Sandwich

Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Remember, I’m all about using accessible ingredients that you can easily find in your local grocery store.

• Cornbread: This is the foundation of the sandwich, so make it good! You can use your favorite recipe, a store-bought mix (I won’t judge!), or even pre-made cornbread from the bakery. I personally love using my grandma’s recipe, which is slightly sweet and incredibly moist. I will provide the recipe below.
• Barbecue: Choose your favorite! Pulled pork, brisket, chicken, even vegetarian options like jackfruit work great. The key is to use BBQ that’s flavorful and tender. I usually go for pulled pork with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
• BBQ Sauce: If your BBQ isn’t already sauced, you’ll need some BBQ sauce. Again, go with your favorite! Sweet, smoky, tangy – it’s all good. I like to have a bottle of my homemade sauce on hand, but there are plenty of great store-bought options too.
• Coleslaw (Optional): For a bit of crunch and tang, coleslaw is a fantastic addition. You can use a creamy coleslaw or a vinegar-based one, depending on your preference.
• Pickles (Optional): A few slices of dill or sweet pickles can add a nice tangy contrast to the sandwich.
• Butter or Oil: For greasing the pan when making the cornbread.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!

Cornbread Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Your Cornbread BBQ Sandwich

Alright, let’s get down to business. Here’s how to make this delicious sandwich, step by step. Don’t worry, it’s super easy!

First, let’s make the cornbread:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 8-inch square baking pan.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and egg.
4. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cornbread cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting it into squares.

Now, let’s assemble the sandwich:

1. Slice the cornbread: Cut a square of cornbread in half horizontally.
2. Pile on the BBQ: Load up the bottom half of the cornbread with your favorite barbecue.
3. Add toppings: If desired, top with coleslaw and pickles.
4. Top it off: Place the top half of the cornbread on top.
5. Serve and enjoy: Dig in and enjoy your delicious Cornbread BBQ Sandwich!

That’s all there is to it! It’s so simple, you’ll be making these sandwiches all the time. I promise!

Lisa’s Top Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Sandwich

Okay, here are a few of my tried-and-true tips to take your Cornbread BBQ Sandwich to the next level:

• Make the cornbread ahead of time: You can make the cornbread a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature.
• Warm the BBQ: Warm up the barbecue before assembling the sandwich. This will make it even more delicious and comforting.
• Toast the cornbread: For a little extra flavor and texture, toast the cornbread slices lightly before assembling the sandwich.
• Get creative with toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Some of my favorites include jalapenos, pickled onions, and different types of BBQ sauce.
• Use a good quality BBQ: The better the BBQ, the better the sandwich. Invest in good quality BBQ or make your own at home. This is very important.
• Let it sit: After assembling, let the sandwich sit for a minute or two before eating. This allows the flavors to meld together.

And remember, cooking is all about having fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this sandwich your own. That’s what cooking is all about. So, turn on some music and make it your own!

How to Store Your Cornbread BBQ Sandwich Components

If you have leftovers, or you want to prep ahead, here’s how to store everything:

• Cornbread: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
• Barbecue: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before using.
• Coleslaw: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that it may become a bit watery over time.
• Assembled Sandwich: While you can technically store an assembled sandwich in the fridge, it’s best to store the components separately and assemble just before eating. This will prevent the cornbread from getting soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cornbread and barbecue separately. Just thaw them out before using. That’s all there is to it

What to Serve with Your Delicious Sandwich

This sandwich is pretty filling on its own, but if you’re looking to make it a complete meal, here are a few of my favorite sides:

• Coleslaw: A classic pairing! The creamy, crunchy coleslaw complements the smoky BBQ perfectly.
• Potato Salad: Another classic Southern side dish that goes great with BBQ.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is always a winner.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a must-have at any BBQ.
• Corn on the Cob: Simple and delicious, corn on the cob is a perfect summer side.
• Green Salad: For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cornbread BBQ Sandwich

Here are some common questions I get asked about this recipe:

Can I make the cornbread in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, absolutely! In fact, that’s my preferred method. It gives the cornbread a nice crispy crust.

Can I use a store-bought cornbread mix?

Of course! I won’t judge. Just follow the instructions on the box.

What’s the best kind of BBQ to use?

That’s totally up to you! I personally love pulled pork with a tangy vinegar-based sauce, but any BBQ will work.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

I recommend assembling the sandwich just before eating to prevent the cornbread from getting soggy. However, you can make the cornbread and BBQ ahead of time and store them separately.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make your own buttermilk by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Can I freeze the cornbread?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Is this sandwich kid-friendly?

Yes! The sweetness of the cornbread makes it a winner with kids.

I hope that answers all your questions! If you have any more, feel free to leave a comment below.

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