Moist, buttery, and packed with sweet corn flavor, this easy cornbread casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort side dish, perfect for holidays, BBQs, potlucks, and cozy family dinners year-round.
If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish, this cornbread casserole is the perfect recipe. Moist, buttery, and slightly sweet with bursts of corn in every bite, this easy baked casserole pairs beautifully with BBQ, chili, roasted meats, and holiday dinners.
Made with simple pantry ingredients, this Southern-style cornbread casserole is soft in the center, golden on top, and incredibly easy to prepare.
What Is Cornbread Casserole?
Cornbread casserole (sometimes called corn pudding or creamed corn casserole) is a baked side dish made with cornbread mix, whole kernel corn, creamed corn, butter, sour cream, and eggs. Unlike traditional crumbly cornbread, this version is moist, rich, and slightly creamy.
It’s especially popular during Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, and Sunday family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Casserole Recipe
✅ Super moist and creamy texture
✅ Only 10 minutes prep time
✅ Perfect for holidays and potlucks
✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Make-ahead friendly
Whether served alongside grilled chicken or hearty chili, this casserole adds comforting Southern flavor to any meal.
Ingredients for Cornbread Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced jalapeños
- Cooked crumbled bacon
- Green onions
- Red bell peppers
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sour cream, eggs, creamed corn, and whole kernel corn. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Add Cornbread Mix
Stir in the cornbread mix, salt, and pepper. Fold gently until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)
Stir in shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
Step 5: Bake
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until center is set and top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
Cornbread casserole provides carbohydrates for energy and calcium from dairy ingredients.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Casserole
- ✔ Use full-fat sour cream for best texture
- ✔ Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness
- ✔ Let it rest before cutting
- ✔ Add cheese on top during last 10 minutes for golden crust
- ✔ Use room-temperature eggs
Variations to Try
Cheesy Cornbread Casserole
Add extra cheddar and top with more cheese before baking.
Mexican-Style Corn Casserole
Add taco seasoning, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese.
Bacon Cornbread Casserole
Mix in crispy bacon for smoky flavor.
Creamier Version
Add ¼ cup heavy cream for extra richness.
What to Serve with Cornbread Casserole
This side dish pairs well with:
- BBQ ribs
- Pulled pork
- Chili
- Fried chicken
- Holiday turkey
- Grilled sausage
It’s also perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months in airtight container.
Reheat: Warm in oven at 325°F or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cornbread casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture, cover, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
Why is my casserole too soft?
It may need more baking time. Insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, substitute with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg.