This Cornbread Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that combines sweet cornbread with creamy corn and cheese. It’s like comfort food on a plate!
This dish is perfect for family dinners. I love serving it hot, and it always disappears fast—who can resist that cheesy goodness? It’s easy to make, so I whip it up whenever friends come over!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Corn: A standard ingredient in this casserole, it adds sweetness and texture. If fresh corn is in season, feel free to use it. Frozen corn also works great if canned is unavailable.
Cream-Style Corn: This adds moisture and creaminess. If you don’t have it, you can puree some cooked corn with a little milk to mimic the texture.
Cornbread Mix: Jiffy is popular, but any cornbread mix will do. You can also make your mix from scratch if you prefer. Just blend cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Sour Cream: This ingredient gives the casserole a rich flavor. Greek yogurt is a nice substitute for a healthier twist, adding creaminess without losing flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings that cheesy goodness! Feel free to use a different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is the Perfect Texture?
The key to a great cornbread casserole is mixing the ingredients just right. Overmixing can lead to a dense casserole. Here’s how to keep it light:
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones until just combined. A few lumps are okay!
- When adding the cheese and seasonings, gently fold them in with a spatula rather than stirring vigorously.
This will help maintain a light, fluffy texture in your casserole, making every bite enjoyable. Keep an eye on your baking time too; a perfectly cooked casserole will have a golden top and will spring back when touched. If you’re unsure, a toothpick test is your best friend!
How to Make Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional for sweeter taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cornbread casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. So, you can have a delicious side dish ready in about 1 hour! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure your casserole cooks evenly and comes out with a lovely golden top.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sweet corn, cream-style corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together gently until it’s just combined. Don’t over-mix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
3. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, sugar (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Taste your mixture and adjust the seasoning to make it just right for you!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixed ingredients into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly so it bakes well all around.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Then, dig in and enjoy your warm and delicious cornbread casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Corn?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh corn, you can use about 2 cups of cooked and cut corn kernels instead of canned corn. Frozen corn can also be used—just thaw and drain before adding to the mixture for the best texture!
Can I Make This Cornbread Casserole Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Just substitute the regular cornbread mix with a gluten-free cornbread mix. Most brands offer gluten-free options that will work just as well in this casserole.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover cornbread casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, adding a splash of milk can help restore moisture!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños for a kick, or even some sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to match your palate!
