Recipe Walkthrough: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing this Old-Fashioned Southern Spoon Bread is a straightforward process, even for novice bakers. The steps are designed to be simple and efficient, ensuring you get a perfectly moist and flavorful dish every time. This section provides an easy-to-follow overview of the key stages. For more granular details, including precise measurements and specific timings, please consult the full recipe card at the very end of this post.

Recipe Variations and Creative Substitutions

One of the true joys of Southern Spoon Bread is its incredible adaptability. While the classic recipe is wonderful on its own, it also serves as a fantastic base for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ideas to tailor the dish to your personal preferences or what you have available in your kitchen.

• Sugar for Sweetness – For those who enjoy a sweeter profile, similar to a sweet cornbread, adding granulated sugar is a simple solution. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness that complements the corn flavor beautifully. Start with a tablespoon and adjust to your liking.
• Whole Corn Kernels – Introduce an extra layer of texture and burst of sweetness by folding in a cup of fresh, frozen, or canned (drained) whole corn kernels. This addition provides a delightful crunch and enhances the overall corn flavor, making it even more satisfying.
• Green Onions or Chives – For a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a touch of color, finely chopped green onions or chives are a superb addition. Stir them into the batter just before baking. They provide a subtle savory note that brightens the dish without overpowering it.
• Jalapeños for Heat – If you appreciate a kick of spice, diced fresh or pickled jalapeños can transform your spoon bread. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat, or leave some in for more fire. They add a zesty, piquant counterpoint to the creamy texture.
• Green Chilies for Southwestern Flair – For a slightly different spicy and earthy flavor, consider adding a can of diced green chilies (mild or hot). This gives the spoon bread a wonderful Southwestern or Mexican-inspired twist, pairing perfectly with chili or tacos.
• Cheese, Glorious Cheese! – Spoon bread and cheese are a match made in heaven. Incorporate shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses into the batter. The cheese will melt into the spoon bread, creating pockets of gooey deliciousness. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
• Bacon or Sausage Bits – For a heartier, more savory dish, crisp up some bacon or cook some sausage, crumble it, and fold it into the batter. These additions bring a smoky, salty, and meaty element that makes the spoon bread substantial enough to be a light meal on its own.

Necessary Gear: Essential Equipment for Success

Making Southern Spoon Bread doesn’t require a kitchen full of specialty gadgets. In fact, you likely already own the few key pieces of equipment needed for this recipe. Having the right tools, however, can make the process smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring consistently great results.

You’ll primarily need a large mixing bowl for combining your ingredients and an 11×7-inch casserole dish or a similar-sized baking dish to bake your spoon bread to golden perfection. A sturdy whisk or fork will also be helpful for mixing. These basic items are versatile workhorses in any kitchen and will serve you well for this recipe and many others.

I have included some helpful affiliate links for recommended products within the recipe card below, should you be looking to upgrade your kitchen essentials.

More Hearty Bread Recipes I Think You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed this delightful Southern Spoon Bread, then you’re surely a fan of comforting, homemade bread! We have a curated collection of other fantastic bread recipes that are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a sweet breakfast treat or another savory side. Explore these popular options and add more delicious baking to your repertoire:

How to Store Leftovers & Reheat

One of the great things about Southern Spoon Bread is how well it keeps, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week. Properly storing your leftovers ensures you can savor its delicious flavor and tender texture for days to come.

To store leftover spoon bread, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm, or warm larger amounts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

This recipe also freezes exceptionally well, extending its shelf life significantly. Once cooled, cut the spoon bread into individual portions or larger blocks, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and then place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven, or reheat directly from frozen at a lower temperature until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Spoon Bread

• What is the difference between spoon bread and cornbread? The main difference lies in texture. Cornbread is typically denser and firmer, often cut into squares. Spoon bread, on the other hand, is a much softer, custard-like dish, almost like a savory pudding or soufflé, that needs to be scooped with a spoon. It usually contains more liquid (milk or buttermilk) and eggs, contributing to its unique consistency.
• Can I use yellow or white cornmeal? Absolutely! Both yellow and white cornmeal can be used. Yellow cornmeal will give a slightly sweeter flavor and a more vibrant golden color, while white cornmeal will result in a milder flavor and lighter appearance. The choice is largely a matter of personal preference.
• What if I don’t have leftover grits? If you don’t have leftover cooked grits, you can quickly cook a fresh batch. Just ensure they are fully cooled before mixing them into the batter. Alternatively, some recipes omit grits entirely, in which case you might increase the cornmeal or add a bit more flour to achieve a similar structure, though the texture will be slightly different.
• Why did my spoon bread not get fluffy? Several factors can affect fluffiness. Ensure your baking powder is fresh and active. Also, overmixing the batter can develop gluten, leading to a denser result. For an extra light and airy texture, see Melanie’s kitchen note below about separating egg whites.
• Can I make spoon bread in a cast iron skillet? Yes, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is an excellent choice for baking spoon bread! It conducts heat beautifully, which can help create a wonderful crust. Just ensure the size is appropriate for the recipe’s volume, typically a 10-inch or 12-inch skillet.

Mel’s Kitchen Notes & Expert Tips

For an undeniably lighter, more soufflé-like texture that truly elevates this spoon bread, consider a classic baking technique: separating the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Once your batter is otherwise complete, gently fold these stiff egg whites into the mixture. This method incorporates more air, resulting in an exceptionally airy and delicate crumb that’s reminiscent of a savory cloud.

• 1
  Cup
  Cornmeal
• 2
  Cups
  Leftover Cooked Grits
  cold
• 2
  Cups
  Milk
• 2
  Tablespoons
  Vegetable Shortening
  melted
• 2
  Each
  Eggs
  Well beaten
• 2
  teaspoons
  Baking Powder
• ½
  teaspoon
  Salt

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking as soon as the batter is ready.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold, leftover cooked grits and the cornmeal. Using a sturdy fork, thoroughly mash and mix these two ingredients together until any clumps of grits are smooth and the mixture is well-combined.
  1 Cup Cornmeal,
  2 Cups Leftover Cooked Grits
• Pour in the milk and continue to mix thoroughly until the batter is completely smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creates the foundational liquid texture of the spoon bread.
  2 Cups Milk
• Add the melted vegetable shortening, salt, baking powder, and the well-beaten eggs to the bowl. Stir diligently until all these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter, ensuring a uniform texture and leavening.
  2 Tablespoons Vegetable Shortening,
  2 Each Eggs,
  2 teaspoons Baking Powder,
  ½ teaspoon Salt
• Pour the prepared batter into an 11×7-inch baking dish that has been thoroughly greased with butter or shortening. Place the dish carefully into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the spoon bread is golden brown on top and set in the center.
• Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Allow the spoon bread to rest for about 5 minutes before you begin to spoon it out and serve. This brief resting period helps it set further and makes for easier, cleaner serving.