Name: Chili Cornbread Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 cups cornbread, crumbled; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, chopped; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/3 cup cilantro leaves; 3/4 cup ranch dressing or sour cream dressing

Chili Cornbread Salad is a zesty, colorful explosion of Southern comfort in every bite. Layers of crumbled cornbread, seasoned beans, juicy tomatoes, crispy bacon, and shredded cheese come together in a bowl of flavor that surprises you with every spoonful. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any gathering that needs a dish to impress, this salad turns basic pantry staples into a bold centerpiece.

The combination of savory and sweet cornbread with hearty chili-style ingredients creates a satisfying dish that eats like a meal. And with its vibrant presentation, it’s just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a delicious make-ahead meal, this Chili Cornbread Salad delivers big-time flavor with minimal fuss.

What Kind of Cornbread Should I Use?

For this salad, you want cornbread that holds its shape without being too dry. Homemade skillet cornbread or a hearty boxed mix baked in a pan works beautifully. Avoid overly sweet styles, as the salad already includes layers of richness and tang. Cornbread with a bit of texture adds structure and contrast to the creamy and crunchy elements in each bite.

Ingredients for the Chili Cornbread Salad

Cornbread: This is your base layer and adds the perfect southern touch. Make it a day ahead for better texture when crumbled.
Kidney beans & black beans: These add hearty, protein-packed flavor and classic chili vibes.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy pops of freshness that brighten up every bite.
Green bell pepper & red onion: Crunchy and colorful, they bring sharpness and balance.
Avocado: Creamy and cool to mellow the bolder flavors.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds salty richness.
Cooked bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon gives a savory punch.
Cilantro: Fresh and fragrant for garnish.
Ranch or sour cream dressing: Blends everything together with creamy tang.

How To Make the Chili Cornbread Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Base

Crumble the cooled cornbread into bite-sized chunks and spread a generous layer at the bottom of your serving bowl. A trifle bowl works well for the layered look, but any large glass bowl is great.

Step 2: Build the Layers

Drain and rinse both the kidney and black beans, then layer them over the cornbread. Follow with diced green bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and creamy chunks of avocado.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters

Sprinkle a hefty amount of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon on top. These two ingredients bring that satisfying smoky-salty depth to your salad.

Step 4: Finish with Dressing

Drizzle ranch or sour cream dressing evenly over the top. You can also serve the dressing on the side for guests to add their preferred amount.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Top with fresh cilantro leaves, cover the salad, and chill for at least an hour before serving. This allows all the flavors to marry beautifully.

Serving and Storing Chili Cornbread Salad

Serve this salad chilled in a large glass bowl to show off its vibrant layers. It’s a great make-ahead dish—assemble it a few hours before your event to let the flavors come together. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to two days, though the cornbread may soften over time. If you’re planning to store leftovers, keep the dressing separate to preserve the texture longer.

What to Serve With Chili Cornbread Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Add a simple protein on the side to make it a complete meal.

Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs

These spicy, creamy bites pair perfectly with the salad’s bold flavors. Try them here

Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken

For a cozy, creamy contrast, serve with this savory slow cooker favorite. Check it out

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

The cheesy comfort of these potatoes rounds out any Southern-style meal. Make them here

Cheesecake Fruit Salad

For a sweet ending that still feels fresh, this dessert salad hits the spot. Get the recipe

Want More Salad Ideas with a Southern Twist?

If this Chili Cornbread Salad has you craving more bold and colorful dishes, you’ll love these other reader favorites:

Creamy Cranberry Salad for a sweet, tangy holiday vibe.
Tex Mex Salad that brings fiesta flavors in every forkful.
Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for a warm, earthy side.
Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes that make any meal brighter.
California Spaghetti Salad if you’re in the mood for pasta-packed freshness.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this colorful, flavor-packed idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a standout side or a light lunch.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe spicy chipotle dressing or roasted corn added in? Let us know how you made it your own in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Chili Cornbread Salad

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Bring vibrant southern charm to your next meal with this Chili Cornbread Salad! A bold, layered dish packed with flavor, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or looking for a colorful make-ahead dish, this salad delivers. Featuring hearty beans, fresh vegetables, smoky bacon, and classic cornbread, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Ideal for anyone seeking food ideas that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. Great for those searching easy dinner, healthy snack, quick lunch, or potluck recipe options—it checks every box.