The Ultimate Guide to Easy Southern Cornbread Casserole: A Beloved Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked cornbread casserole wafting from the kitchen, especially when it’s made with love and a touch of Southern charm. This easy homemade Southern Cornbread Casserole, often celebrated as a baked creamed corn casserole, is a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple cornmeal into a sweet, soufflé-like delight, reminiscent of scalloped corn. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a staple, a beloved tradition that graces tables during Thanksgiving feasts, holiday gatherings, and cherished Sunday dinners.

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The Allure of From-Scratch Baking: Why Homemade Reigns Supreme

Many of us grew up with or are familiar with Jiffy corn pudding, a popular shortcut often called a casserole. This convenient option typically involves a box of Jiffy cornbread mix, known for its inherent sweetness, combined with creamed corn, eggs, and milk. While undeniably delicious and quick, a closer look at the ingredients reveals additions like lard (hydrogenated lard with BHT and citric acid preservatives) and significant amounts of added sugar. While convenient, the ability to control what goes into your food is a powerful advantage of cooking from scratch.

For me, the decision to always make my own cornbread stems from a desire for cleaner ingredients and superior flavor. Crafting cornbread from scratch is surprisingly easy and allows you to tailor the sweetness and richness precisely to your liking, without relying on pre-packaged mixes containing ingredients you might prefer to avoid. This homemade Southern cornbread casserole embodies that philosophy, offering a truly wholesome and customizable experience that tastes infinitely better than anything from a box.

Choosing Your Corn for the Perfect Casserole

The type of corn you select can significantly influence the texture and flavor of your casserole. For utmost convenience without sacrificing quality, I highly recommend using frozen, whole kernel corn. It’s incredibly easy to store and prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy cooks. Remember to thaw it thoroughly before use and drain any excess water to prevent a watery casserole. If you prefer, well-drained canned corn is a perfectly acceptable alternative, offering year-round availability. For a truly seasonal and vibrant flavor, fresh corn, cut straight from the cob, will elevate this dish to an exceptional level, especially during peak harvest.

Understanding Creamed Corn: Sugar, Starch, and Flavor

Many traditional corn casserole recipes call for creamed corn, and you certainly can use it in this recipe if you wish. However, it’s important to understand what creamed corn typically contains. Despite its name, most canned creamed corn is not made with actual cream. Instead, it’s primarily composed of whole kernel corn, sugar, water, and food starch (often modified corn starch) used as a thickening agent. This combination creates a sweet, thick consistency that many enjoy.

The key takeaway here is the presence of added sugar. If you opt to use canned creamed corn, be mindful that it already contributes sweetness to the dish. This might mean you need to adjust or even omit any additional sugar or sweetener specified in the recipe, depending on your preference for sweetness. Always check the ingredient label of your chosen creamed corn to make an informed decision about your casserole’s flavor profile.

Sweetener Considerations: Balancing Taste and Health

Adding sugar or a sweetener to your Southern Cornbread Casserole is entirely optional and largely depends on your personal taste and whether you’ve used creamed corn. As previously mentioned, most corn casseroles made with canned creamed corn already contain a good amount of sugar, rendering additional sweeteners unnecessary for many. However, for this homemade recipe, where we bypass the pre-sweetened canned corn, I prefer to add my own sweetener to control the flavor and avoid unnecessary additives.

My choice is typically monk fruit sweetener. This zero-calorie, zero-carb option offers a clean sweetness with no unpleasant aftertaste, and it measures 1:1 just like refined table sugar. This makes it incredibly easy to substitute in any recipe. If you enjoy a sweeter cornbread, feel free to use standard granulated sugar, brown sugar, or even natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to achieve your desired level of indulgence.

Crafting Your Cornbread Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious Southern Cornbread Casserole is a straightforward process, combining simple ingredients to produce a truly satisfying dish. Here’s a concise overview of the steps involved; detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Prepare Your Pan: Begin by generously greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful golden crust.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, your chosen sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Ensure these ingredients are well-combined for even distribution.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Introduce the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, creamy Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and the thawed, drained corn to the dry mixture.
4. Gently Mix: Stir the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough, dense casserole. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the luscious batter evenly into your prepared baking dish.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Simplifying with Self-Rising Cornmeal Mix

For those looking to streamline the baking process even further, self-rising cornmeal mix is an excellent option. This versatile mix typically contains yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, pre-proportioned for convenience. If you choose to use self-rising cornmeal mix, you can substitute 2 cups of the mix for the separate yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and baking powder listed in the recipe. This smart swap not only saves you from measuring multiple ingredients but also ensures a consistent rise and flavor, making your baking experience even easier.

When Convenience Calls: Using Boxed Cornbread Mix

While this recipe champions the rich flavors and ingredient control of homemade, we understand that sometimes time is of the essence. If you find yourself in a pinch, you can indeed use a boxed cornbread mix as a shortcut for the cornbread component. For this casserole, an 8.5-ounce box of cornbread mix will typically suffice. However, remember that using a boxed mix will alter the homemade aspect and potentially introduce additional sugars and ingredients. If you go this route, be sure to adjust any added sweeteners in the recipe accordingly.

The Role of Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt) for Moisture and Texture

Sour cream plays a crucial role in this Southern Cornbread Casserole, contributing significantly to its moist, tender crumb and delightful tang. It adds a richness that truly elevates the dish. If you wish to substitute sour cream, plain, non-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative, offering a similar creamy texture and acidic punch while often being lower in fat. However, I strongly advise against omitting this ingredient entirely.

While technically possible to make the casserole without sour cream or Greek yogurt, doing so will profoundly impact the final texture. The casserole will likely turn out noticeably drier and potentially crumbly, losing the succulent, melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes it so irresistible. For the best results, stick to one of these creamy additions.

Buttermilk Substitutions: Understanding the Science of the Rise

Buttermilk is another star ingredient in this recipe, essential for creating that desired light and fluffy texture. Its acidity reacts with the baking powder, providing a superior lift and a wonderfully tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry – you can easily make your own substitute! Simply combine regular milk with either vinegar or lemon juice. For detailed instructions, refer to resources like How to Make a Buttermilk Substitute.

It’s important to note that regular milk is not a direct substitute for buttermilk in this recipe. While milk can thin the batter, it lacks the necessary acidity to react with the leavening agents. This means using regular milk instead of buttermilk (or a buttermilk substitute) will result in a less pronounced rise and a denser cornbread casserole. The lower pH of buttermilk is what gives your baked goods a better structure and a more appealing texture.

Choosing the Right Baking Pan for Optimal Results

The type of baking pan you choose can influence the final texture and evenness of your Southern Cornbread Casserole. I highly recommend using a 9×13 inch ceramic baking dish. Ceramic dishes are excellent at regulating heat, providing a more consistent and gentle bake. This helps prevent the edges from drying out too quickly while the center cooks through. In my experience, glass baking dishes, while functional, tend to transfer heat more intensely, which can sometimes lead to a drier casserole, particularly around the edges.

Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a different texture profile, you can also bake this dish in a cast iron skillet, a method deeply rooted in traditional Southern cooking. Each material offers a unique benefit to the final dish.

The Cast Iron Advantage: Crispy Edges and Fluffy Interiors

Absolutely! Baking your Southern Cornbread Casserole in cast iron is not only permissible but often preferred by those who love a rustic, traditional touch. Cornbread is famously made in cast iron skillets, and applying this method to the casserole yields fantastic results. While this casserole is designed to be wonderfully light and fluffy, a cast iron skillet will impart distinct characteristics. The heavy, even heat of cast iron creates beautifully crisp, golden-brown edges while maintaining a moist and fluffy interior.

If you’re seeking that delightful contrast between a slightly crispy crust and a tender crumb, a cast iron skillet is definitely the way to go. For those who prefer uniformly fluffy edges all around, a ceramic or standard baking dish will achieve that softer, more consistent texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Convenience

While this Southern Cornbread Casserole is truly at its best when served fresh and warm straight from the oven, it can certainly be prepared ahead of time or stored for later enjoyment. For optimal flavor and texture, aim to serve it shortly after baking. If you need to make it in advance, or if you have leftovers, simply allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm individual servings in the microwave or place the entire dish (covered) in a moderate oven until heated through.

Freezing for Future Feasts

This casserole is also freezer-friendly, making it a perfect option for meal prep or saving for an impromptu gathering. To freeze the cornbread casserole, ensure it is completely cooled. Then, wrap it securely in several layers of aluminum foil, followed by a layer of plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Properly wrapped, it can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the casserole on the counter at room temperature for a few hours, or overnight in the refrigerator, before reheating as described above.

Explore More Cornbread Delights

If you love cornbread as much as we do, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other fantastic recipes:

• Homemade Southern Style Cornbread
• Air Fryer Cornbread
• Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
• Keto Low Carb Cornbread
• Chicken and Dressing
• Sweet Potato Biscuits
• Homemade Blueberry Cornbread
• Pumpkin Cornbread
• Sweet Potato Cornbread

Perfect Pairings: Main Dishes to Complement Your Casserole

This versatile cornbread casserole makes an excellent side dish for a wide array of hearty main courses:

• Baked Turkey Wings
• Smothered Turkey Wings
• Southern Baked Ham With Pineapple
• Cajun Roasted Turkey
• Smothered Chicken
• Air Fryer Whole Chicken
• Air Fryer Honey Glazed Ham
• Seafood Mac and Cheese
• Stuffed Turkey Legs
• Slow Cooker Turkey Legs

Essential Holiday Side Dish Recipes

Complete your holiday spread with these incredible side dishes that pair perfectly with our cornbread casserole:

• Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce
• Southern Collard Greens
• Southern Green Beans
• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
• Scalloped Corn
• Squash Dressing
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar
• Seafood Cornbread Dressing Recipe

For a deeper dive into Southern culinary traditions, explore our list of The Best Authentic Soul Food Recipes. You can also watch step-by-step video instructions on how to make this recipe here on Youtube.

Easy Southern Cornbread Casserole

By Brandi Crawford

This Easy Southern Cornbread Casserole is a homemade delight, also known as a baked creamed corn casserole. Utilizing cornmeal, it produces a sweet, soufflé-like texture similar to scalloped corn. It’s the ultimate choice for Thanksgiving, holiday feasts, and cherished Sunday family dinners.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 35 mins

Total Time 50 mins

Course Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 16 slices

Calories 114 kcal

Equipment

• Ceramic Baking Dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Large Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup sweetener or sugar (adjust to taste, see notes)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup butter, melted (measured solid)
• ½ cup plain, non-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 16 oz frozen corn, thawed and well-drained

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sweetener (or sugar), and salt. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
4. To the dry ingredients, add the wet ingredients: buttermilk, ¼ cup melted butter, eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and the thawed, drained corn.
5. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are fine and will result in a tender casserole.
6. Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased baking dish.
7. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Recipe Notes

• For the corn, I find frozen, whole kernel corn most convenient. Always thaw and drain any excess water to prevent a soggy casserole. Canned or fresh corn can also be used, ensuring canned corn is well-drained.
• Creamed corn can be used, but be aware it typically contains added sugar and starch. If using, you may want to reduce or omit the additional sweetener to control the overall sweetness.
• The recipe calls for ½ cup of sugar or sweetener, which provides a moderate sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you might increase this to ¾ cup or even 1 cup, especially since this is a homemade recipe without the added sugars found in boxed mixes.
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt is crucial for moisture and texture. Omitting it will result in a noticeably drier casserole.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute by combining milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled. This acidity is key for a proper rise.
• Buttermilk’s acidity reacts with baking powder, contributing to a better rise and a more tender crumb. Regular milk will not provide the same leavening benefits and may result in a denser casserole.
• A 9×13 ceramic baking dish is recommended for its even heat distribution, which helps prevent drying out compared to glass dishes.
• Cooking times can vary based on your oven and the type of pan used. Always test the center with a toothpick to confirm doneness.
• Baking in cast iron will create crispier edges with a fluffy interior, a delightful contrast. A ceramic baking dish will yield consistently fluffy edges.
• Macros are estimated using monk fruit sweetener. For the most accurate nutritional information, use a calculator with the specific ingredients and brands you use.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 slice
Calories: 114 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 4 g

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using online nutrition databases. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for your specific recipe, it is recommended to calculate it with the actual ingredients used, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

Conclusion: A Taste of Southern Hospitality

This Easy Southern Cornbread Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to experience the warmth and generosity of Southern cooking. Whether you’re gathering for a holiday feast, a casual Sunday dinner, or simply craving a comforting side dish, this homemade delight promises to deliver. Its sweet, tender, and soufflé-like texture, coupled with the rich flavor of corn, makes it an unforgettable addition to any meal. By choosing fresh, quality ingredients and following these simple steps, you’ll create a casserole that embodies the true spirit of homemade goodness. We encourage you to try this recipe and share the joy of a truly authentic Southern classic with your loved ones.