Cornbread Casserole Recipe Easy

Introduction

This Cornbread Casserole Recipe Easy is the ultimate side dish, combining simplicity with incredible flavor. It’s the perfect comforting addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. The golden, fluffy cornbread topping pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like Over the Top Chili Recipe 😮‍💨 or Pork Shoulder Roast. Ready in no time, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

This warm, buttery and perfectly sweet cornbread casserole comes together with simple pantry staples for a comforting side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

• 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup canned creamed corn
• 1 cup whole kernel corn, drained
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This warm, buttery, and perfectly sweet cornbread casserole is ready in about 20% less time than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your casserole releases easily after baking.

Step 2 — Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This creates the base for your warm, buttery, and perfectly sweet cornbread casserole.

Step 3 — Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs, then stir in 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and one 15-ounce can of cream-style corn. Combining these separately helps avoid overmixing later.

Step 4 — Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the casserole dense instead of light and tender.

Step 5 — Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. For extra richness, you can dot the top with thin slices of cold butter before baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan.

Step 7 — Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it set, making it easier to serve as the ultimate side for holidays, BBQs, or family dinners.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	480mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt for sour cream — Adds protein and tanginess while reducing fat.
• Almond or coconut milk — Dairy-free option that keeps the casserole moist and subtly sweet.
• Gluten-free cornbread mix — Maintains classic texture for those avoiding gluten.
• Reduced-sodium creamed corn — Cuts salt without sacrificing creamy consistency.
• Applesauce in place of some butter — Lowers fat and adds natural sweetness.
• Whole wheat cornbread mix — Boosts fiber for a heartier, nutritious twist.
• Add diced turkey sausage — Introduces lean protein for a more filling dish.
• Stevia or monk fruit sweetener — Lowers sugar content while keeping the perfectly sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this warm, buttery, and perfectly sweet cornbread casserole alongside holiday favorites like roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or smoked brisket for a comforting feast.
• Pair it with BBQ classics such as pulled pork, grilled chicken, or ribs to complement the sweet and savory flavors at your next outdoor gathering.
• Make it a star at family dinners by serving it with chili, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
• For potlucks or parties, bake the casserole in a decorative cast-iron skillet or ceramic dish to keep it warm and enhance its rustic, inviting presentation.
• Garnish with a drizzle of honey, a pat of butter, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving to elevate its visual appeal and flavor profile.
• Transform leftovers into a delicious breakfast by serving warm slices with a dollop of jam or alongside scrambled eggs and bacon.

This cornbread casserole is truly the ultimate side, adaptable for any occasion from casual weeknights to festive celebrations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge. Fix: Bring dairy and eggs to room temperature for a smoother, more even batter that bakes uniformly.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter until it’s perfectly smooth. Fix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined; a few lumps are essential for a tender, not tough, crumb.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s too small or too deep. Fix: Use a standard 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the center cooks through without the edges burning.
• Mistake: Skipping the preheating step for your oven. Fix: Always preheat your oven fully so the casserole begins cooking immediately, leading to a better rise.
• Mistake: Relying solely on the boxed mix for flavor. Fix: Boost the “warm, buttery and perfectly sweet” profile by adding a touch of honey or creamed corn to the batter.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door frequently to check for doneness. Fix: Use the toothpick test only near the end of baking to prevent the casserole from collapsing from a sudden temperature drop.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the batter, making it taste bland. Fix: Don’t forget a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors.
• Mistake: Cutting and serving the casserole immediately after baking. Fix: Let it rest for 10-15 minutes; this allows it to set for cleaner slices and a better texture.
• Mistake: Using expired baking powder. Fix: Test your leavener beforehand to ensure your casserole rises properly and doesn’t turn out dense.
• Mistake: Not greasing the baking dish adequately. Fix: Generously butter the dish to create a delicious, golden crust and ensure easy release after baking.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover cornbread casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or cover and bake the whole casserole at 350°F (175°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Always allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain its texture and ensure food safety.

Conclusion

This warm, buttery, and perfectly sweet cornbread casserole is the ultimate side dish for any occasion. We hope you love it as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. For more easy dinner ideas, check out our Ground Beef and Rice Casserole and Stuffed Pepper Soup.

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FAQs

Can I make this cornbread casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure it bakes evenly and becomes warm, buttery and perfectly sweet.

What can I serve with this cornbread casserole?

This casserole is the ultimate side for hearty meals. It pairs wonderfully with BBQ ribs, roasted turkey, or chili. Its sweet and savory profile complements a wide variety of main dishes.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warm throughout.