Introduction
There’s something about soul food that brings warmth and comfort to the soul, and this Soul Food Cornbread Bowl takes that experience to a whole new level. Imagine a delicious cornbread bowl filled with a rich and tender braised beef, savory collard greens, creamy mac and cheese, and sweet mashed potatoes—each bite more satisfying than the last. This hearty dish combines all your favorite soul food staples in one bowl, making it the ultimate comfort food experience.
This Soul Food Cornbread Bowl is not just a dish; it’s an experience to savor and share with loved ones, making your gatherings memorable.
Every Soul Food Cornbread Bowl can be customized according to your preferences, ensuring that it suits everyone’s taste!
Creating a Soul Food Cornbread Bowl is simple, and it’s a fantastic way to highlight the flavors of southern cuisine.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its presentation. The cornbread bowl serves as the perfect vessel to hold all the ingredients, creating a warm, indulgent meal that’s both comforting and visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, planning a special dinner, or simply craving some down-home southern cuisine, this soul food cornbread bowl is sure to impress.
Once you try the Soul Food Cornbread Bowl, you’ll want to make it a regular feature at your meals.
Ready to dive into this heartwarming dish? Let’s get started with a step-by-step guide to making this delicious and filling meal!
To create the perfect Soul Food Cornbread Bowl, sourcing quality ingredients is key.
Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor of the Soul Food Cornbread Bowl, so choose wisely!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: From braised beef to creamy mac and cheese, this bowl is filled with rich, savory goodness.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: It combines all your favorite soul food dishes in one bowl—perfect for a hearty meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite soul food sides, like fried chicken or cornbread dressing, to make it your own.
- Hearty & Filling: This dish will satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: It’s a unique and impressive way to serve classic southern dishes at family gatherings or special dinners.
Ingredients
For the Braised Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (or any braising cut)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Collard Greens:
- 2 lbs fresh collard greens, cleaned and chopped
- 1/2 lb smoked ham hocks or bacon, for flavor
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter
- Pinch of salt
For the Cornbread Bowl:
- 1 box cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread recipe)
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk (or as per cornbread mix instructions)
- Butter, for greasing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Braised Beef
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and thyme. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 4 minutes per side).
- Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and place the pot in the oven.
- Bake for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
2. Cook the Collard Greens
- In a large pot, cook the ham hocks or bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add collard greens, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the greens are tender.
3. Make the Mac and Cheese
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Stir in cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and season with salt and pepper.
4. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Boil cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 10–12 minutes).
- Drain and return the sweet potatoes to the pot.
- Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mash until smooth.
Don’t forget to enjoy your Soul Food Cornbread Bowl with a side of sweet tea!
5. Make the Cornbread Bowls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package or your homemade recipe.
- Grease individual oven-safe bowls or ramekins with butter.
- Pour cornbread batter into the bowls, filling halfway, and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Celebrate your heritage with a delicious Soul Food Cornbread Bowl and create new family traditions.
6. Assemble the Bowl
- Once the cornbread is done, carefully hollow out a small space in the center to form a bowl.
- Fill each cornbread bowl with braised beef, collard greens, mac and cheese, and sweet potatoes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the ultimate soul food experience!
Serving Suggestions
- Fried Chicken: Add a piece of crispy fried chicken for an extra southern touch.
- Cornbread Dressing: Serve alongside homemade cornbread dressing for a more filling meal.
- Pickles or Hot Sauce: A side of tangy pickles or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a flavorful kick.
- Sweet Tea: A glass of sweet tea or lemonade complements the richness of the soul food perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can braise the beef, cook the greens, and prepare the mac and cheese and sweet potatoes ahead of time. When ready to serve, bake the cornbread bowls, fill them, and bake everything together.
Can I use a different meat?
While beef is classic for this recipe, you can substitute it with lamb, chicken, or even a plant-based option like lentils for a vegetarian alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the braised beef, greens, mac and cheese, and sweet potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cornbread and fillings before serving.
Can I make a larger batch?
Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients and use larger or more bowls to make extra servings.
Finish your meal on a sweet note after your Soul Food Cornbread Bowl with a slice of pie or cobbler.
The Soul Food Cornbread Bowl is perfect for any occasion, bringing friends and family together.
Join the love for Soul Food Cornbread Bowl by making it a tradition in your home!
Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
Recipe Tips
- Cornbread Tips: For an even fluffier cornbread, add a little extra butter or buttermilk to the batter.
- Meat Substitution: If you prefer a leaner cut, opt for ground turkey or chicken for the braised filling.
- Make It Spicy: Add a little cayenne pepper to the greens or the mac and cheese for a spicy twist.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh and hot for the full soul food experience.
Conclusion
The Soul Food Cornbread Bowl is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and heartwarming ingredients in one delicious meal. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special celebration, or just a craving for some down-home southern cuisine, this dish brings all the comforting flavors of soul food to the table in the most delightful way. Packed with tender beef, savory greens, creamy mac and cheese, and sweet potatoes, all served in a warm, fluffy cornbread bowl, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone.
For more soul food inspiration, try our Classic Southern Fried Chicken or Shrimp and Grits for other comforting, flavor-packed meals.