Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch cast iron skillet well.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Add wet ingredients: Make a well in the center. Pour in milk, egg, and oil all at once. Beat just until smooth.
Bake: Pour batter into prepared skillet. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serve: Let cool slightly, then slice into wedges. Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside chili.