Name: Southern Comfort on a Plate
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 package cornbread mix (or equivalent homemade batter); 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 green onions, sliced; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk or buttermilk; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

There’s something magical about a meal that speaks to your soul, and this Southern comfort on a plate does just that. With buttery richness, a cozy texture, and that unmistakable warmth only true Southern cuisine can bring, this dish wraps you in nostalgic joy with every bite. Whether you’re from the South or simply crave that down-home flavor, this recipe turns simple pantry staples into something unforgettable.

Imagine a golden-crusted layer of cornbread soaking up a savory sausage and creamy cheese filling, all baked to bubbling perfection. It’s the kind of dish that turns ordinary nights into special ones, perfect for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or just a much-needed taste of home. It’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to pull together.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Comfort on a Plate

This dish is all about warmth and satisfaction. The cornbread base delivers a golden crunch on top and a soft, almost spoonbread-like texture underneath. Paired with smoky sausage, sharp cheddar, and a touch of green onion, every bite is packed with flavor. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, and just as delicious reheated the next day.

Plus, it’s versatile. You can swap the meat, add a little heat, or mix in veggies to make it your own. And the best part? It uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it the perfect go-to comfort meal.

What Kind of Cornbread Should I Use?

You can use homemade cornbread batter or grab a box of your favorite cornbread mix for convenience. If you like your base a little sweet, go with a honey cornbread mix. Prefer savory? A buttermilk-style version works beautifully. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold the filling and bake up nice and golden. Some folks like to crumble day-old cornbread and layer it with the sausage mix instead—that’s a great option too!

Ingredients for the Southern Comfort on a Plate

This dish brings together classic Southern staples in a simple, delicious way. The ingredients are common but pack a flavorful punch when layered and baked to perfection.

Cornbread mix or homemade batter
Breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
Sharp cheddar cheese
Green onions
Eggs
Milk or buttermilk
Butter
Salt and pepper

Each ingredient plays a key role here. Cornbread gives the base its hearty, golden texture. Sausage adds depth and richness. Cheddar cheese brings that melty, savory bite. Green onions give a fresh lift. Eggs and milk help bind it all together, and butter just brings that Southern richness you can’t skip.

How To Make the Southern Comfort on a Plate

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Brown your sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain the fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cornbread Base

In a large bowl, prepare your cornbread batter according to package instructions (or from scratch). Add in one egg and a splash of milk or buttermilk if needed to thin it out slightly.

Step 3: Layer It All Together

Pour half the cornbread batter into a buttered baking dish. Layer in the cooked sausage, a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Pour the remaining cornbread batter over the top and smooth it out.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 375°F for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle and makes for easier slicing.

Serving and Storing This Southern Comfort on a Plate

This recipe feeds around 6 to 8 people, making it a great family-style dinner. Serve it hot with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream if you like an extra kick.

Leftovers? Absolutely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. It reheats beautifully and makes a hearty next-day lunch.

What to Serve With Southern Comfort on a Plate?

Classic Coleslaw

A cool, creamy coleslaw cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a welcome crunch.

Collard Greens

Smoky, slow-cooked collard greens are a Southern staple that pair beautifully with the savory sausage and cornbread combo.

Fried Green Tomatoes

A crispy side that adds tang and texture, especially great for summer months.

Sweet Tea

Wash it all down with a chilled glass of sweet tea for the full Southern experience.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy and comforting, mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser beside this hearty bake.

Pickled Okra or Beets

Add a little zing on the side with something pickled. It helps balance the richness.

Corn on the Cob

Keep it simple and Southern with buttery corn on the cob. Grill it or boil it—it’s perfect either way.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If this Southern comfort on a plate hit the spot, here are more cozy recipes you’ll want to try next:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy with the sausage or mild? Add in bell peppers or jalapeños? I’d love to hear your twist.

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