Honey Cornbread Pasta Bake

This Honey Cornbread Pasta Bake combines the comforting sweetness of honey cornbread with the heartiness of baked pasta. With a creamy topping and a savory-sweet balance, this dish brings together Southern charm and homestyle pasta in one delicious, oven-baked creation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique combination of cornbread and pasta
• Sweet and savory profile that appeals to all ages
• Ideal for family dinners or potlucks
• Easy to prepare and bake in one dish
• Creamy topping adds rich texture and flavor
• Customizable with different toppings or mix-ins
• Comfort food with a creative twist
• Delicious both warm and at room temperature

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni pasta
• Cornmeal
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Milk
• Eggs
• Honey
• Butter (melted)
• Sour cream or cream cheese (for topping)
• Caramelized sausage or sweet glazed bacon bits (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and honey.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
6. Fold in the cooked pasta gently.
7. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and set.
9. Let cool slightly, then spread a layer of sour cream or cream cheese on top.
10. Garnish with caramelized sausage or glazed bacon bits before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness
• Substitute sausage with spicy chorizo or turkey bacon
• Add shredded cheddar to the batter for a cheesy twist
• Mix in jalapeños or corn kernels for extra texture
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter topping

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10–15 minutes
• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy topping, but the base bake can be frozen separately

FAQs

How sweet is this dish?

It has a subtle sweetness from the honey and cornbread, balanced by savory pasta and toppings.

Can I use boxed cornbread mix?

Yes, you can use boxed mix for convenience, but homemade offers better texture and control.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?

If you omit the sausage or bacon topping and use vegetarian-friendly ingredients, it can be.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like elbow macaroni or small shells is ideal for even distribution.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, bake the base ahead, refrigerate, and add the topping and garnish just before serving.

Can I skip the topping?

You can, but the creamy topping enhances both flavor and texture.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Do not overbake, and keep it covered if reheating in the oven.

Can I use gluten-free flour and pasta?

Yes, substitute gluten-free versions of flour and pasta for a gluten-free meal.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely, kids love the sweet and soft texture combined with pasta.

What other toppings go well?

Try crispy onions, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of honey on top.

Conclusion

The Honey Cornbread Pasta Bake is a creative and hearty dish that brings together the best of two comfort foods—cornbread and pasta. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping, this bake is both filling and flavorful. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the many variations, it’s bound to be a favorite on your dinner table.

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