Cornbread Casserole

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite, look no further than Cornbread Casserole. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with southern flavors that will surely have your family coming back for seconds. Imagine a dish that melds the sweetness of cornbread with the savory goodness of cheesy goodness and veggies—a dish that truly hits the spot! This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, taking just about an hour to prepare and cook. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ingredients or grains you might have lingering in your pantry.

Did you know that cornbread has its roots in Native American cuisine? Now, that’s a little fun fact to impress your friends! If you love Southern recipes as much as I do, you might also want to check out my popular potato casserole! Both are easy to make and perfect for gatherings, but this Cornbread Casserole holds a special place in my heart for its comforting simplicity.

So, if you’re ready to impress your family with a delicious meal that doesn’t require hours of prep, let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

What is Cornbread Casserole?

So, what’s in a name? Cornbread Casserole sounds like a dish that could pull you into a warm embrace, doesn’t it? It’s got “cornbread” right there in the title, making it an irresistible choice for any fan of this classic southern staple. But why is it called a casserole? Well, it comes from the way we layer everything up into one dish and bake it to cheesy perfection. The beauty of a casserole is that it’s all in one pot—who doesn’t love less cleanup after a satisfying meal? After all, they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish is sure to win over anyone at your table. Trust me; you’ll want to bring this comforting casserole to life!

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Casserole

1. A Flavor Bomb: The main highlight of Cornbread Casserole is its incredible combination of flavors. The sweet corn mingles beautifully with savory ingredients like cheese and spices, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
2. Budget-Friendly: Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a way to whip up a meal without breaking the bank. Using pantry staples like cornbread mix, canned corn, and shredded cheese makes it affordable yet fulfilling.
3. Toppings Galore: What sets this casserole apart are the delightful toppings you can add to make it your own! A sprinkle of jalapeños for a kick, or fresh herbs can elevate this dish and impress your dinner guests.

If you enjoy making hearty casseroles, you probably already love my creamy broccoli rice casserole. Both dishes are perfect for family dinners and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Ready to give this one a go? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Cornbread Casserole

Quick Overview

Cornbread Casserole is the epitome of a quick and tasty meal for any day of the week. This dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and only around 45 minutes to bake, making it a no-fuss option for busy weeknights. You’ll love how the creamy filling pairs wonderfully with a crispy cornbread topping that satisfies every craving.

Key Ingredients for Cornbread Casserole

• 1 box of cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
• 1 can of corn (drained, about 15 oz)
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder (optional)
• 1 cup of diced onions (optional)
• 1 cup of diced bell peppers (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, drained corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. If you’re using diced onions and bell peppers, add those in for extra flavor.
3. Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, and spread it evenly. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Serve: After removing it from the oven, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

What to Serve Cornbread Casserole With

To create a balanced meal around your Cornbread Casserole, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad, some roasted vegetables, or even grilled chicken for added protein. You might also enjoy it alongside a hearty bowl of chili—the flavors contrast so beautifully! And for drinks, a glass of iced tea is sure to complete the Southern experience.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cornbread Casserole

• Make It Your Own: Feel free to mix and match toppings and spices! Love a little heat? Add diced jalapeños. Prefer a smokier flavor? Try smoked paprika instead of chili powder.
• Watch the Baking Time: Different ovens can have slight variations in temperature. Keep an eye on your casserole, and if the top is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
• Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t have sour cream? You can easily replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthy twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Oh yes, please! Store any unused Cornbread Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, consider freezing portions in individual containers. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Now that you have the recipe for this delightful Cornbread Casserole, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring comfort food to life in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Cornbread Casserole

A creamy and hearty dish featuring the sweetness of cornbread combined with savory cheese and veggies, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
• 1 can corn (drained, about 15 oz)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional) Add for extra spice.
• 1 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• to taste Salt and pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, drained corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Add diced onions and bell peppers if desired.
3. Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Season with chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Baking

1. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider toppings like jalapeños or fresh herbs. Watch the baking time as oven temperatures can vary.