Tennessee Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter

Introduction

This Tennessee-style Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter is a Southern classic with a grilled twist. Perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill, the cornbread gets crisp, golden edges while staying moist inside. Topped with rich honey butter, this dish is a sweet, savory treat that’s ideal for a weekend brunch or BBQ.

Ingredients

• 1 skillet-sized round of classic Southern cornbread (pre-baked and cooled)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp butter for grilling
• Pinch of sea salt

The Sear Makes the Steak, And Arteflame Makes the Sear

Why settle for low-temperature searing when you can achieve steakhouse-quality results with an Arteflame? Gas grills take longer, drying out your steak, while the Arteflame sears at 1000°F in just one minute, locking in juices for perfection.

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Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
4. Light the paper and let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix 4 tbsp softened butter with 2 tbsp honey and a pinch of sea salt until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Slice the Cornbread

1. Slice your pre-baked cornbread into thick squares or wedges, about 1-inch thick, so they hold up well on the grill.

Step 4: Grill the Cornbread

1. Place a small pat of butter on the flat top griddle near the center (for best searing heat).
2. Place cornbread slices onto the buttered griddle surface.
3. Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, watching carefully so it doesn’t dry out.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the grilled cornbread from the cooktop.
2. Spread the honey butter generously over the warm grilled slices.
3. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips

• Use butter instead of oil on the grill for added flavor and a golden sear.
• Grill near the center of the Arteflame cooktop for crisper results—the hotter zone enhances caramelization.
• Don’t over-grill; the goal is to toast the outside while keeping the interior soft.
• You can warm the honey butter slightly on the outer edge of the griddle if you want it more spreadable.
• This makes an excellent side dish for any grilled meat or brunch spread.

Variations

1. Jalapeño Cornbread: Add chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar to the cornbread for a spicy variation before grilling.
2. Maple Bacon Butter: Swap the honey butter for a maple butter mixed with finely chopped crispy bacon.
3. Herbed Cornbread: Stir in chopped rosemary or thyme into the cornbread before grilling for earthy notes.
4. Sweet Corn & Scallion: Add grilled corn kernels and diced scallions on top after grilling for added texture and flavor.
5. Spicy Cinnamon Honey Butter: Add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne to the honey butter for a spiced sweet-heat combo.

Best pairings

• Grilled Tennessee BBQ Ribs
• Smoked pulled pork
• Heirloom tomato salad
• Peach iced tea or a crisp wheat beer
• Grilled peaches and vanilla bean ice cream for dessert

Conclusion

This Tennessee Grilled Cornbread with Honey Butter is your new go-to comfort food side dish. Easy to grill, quick to serve, and always crowd-pleasing, it’s proof that the Arteflame grill isn’t just for meats—it's for memorable meals. Try it with BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, or your favorite grilled vegetables.