Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a truly classic Southern comfort food: our irresistible Cornbread Pudding. This delightful dish, often hailed as a creamy corn casserole, offers the perfect blend of sweet and savory notes, promising to become a cherished family favorite and a showstopper at any gathering. Its rich, moist texture and deep, comforting flavors make it an essential addition to your recipe collection, embodying the spirit of traditional Southern hospitality.
There’s nothing quite like a homemade cornbread pudding to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This particular casserole recipe truly shines as a holiday side dish, gracing tables during Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations across the South. Its versatility, however, extends far beyond the festive season, making it an excellent accompaniment to weeknight dinners or Sunday suppers.
While many may be familiar with sweeter variations like Jiffy corn pudding, our recipe offers a refined take. We prefer a cornbread base that isn’t overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors of the corn and other ingredients to truly sing. This slight adjustment ensures a more balanced, savory profile that complements a wider array of main courses, preventing the pudding from tasting like a dessert rather than a hearty side.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cornbread Pudding
This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this cornbread pudding recipe is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen:
- The Perfect Balance: It masterfully combines sweet and savory elements, creating a depth of flavor that satisfies every palate. The natural sweetness of corn harmonizes beautifully with a hint of salt and pepper, making each bite utterly delightful.
- Effortless Preparation: Don’t let its gourmet taste fool you. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few common ingredients and minimal hands-on time. You can whip up the batter in less than 5 minutes, making it ideal for busy holidays or last-minute meal additions.
- Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner, a potluck, or a casual get-together, this cornbread pudding is always a hit. Its comforting nature and rich taste appeal to all ages, ensuring there are rarely any leftovers.
- Versatile Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with a wide range of main courses, from roasted turkey and ham to grilled chicken or even a simple barbecue. Its creamy texture and robust flavor enhance any meal it accompanies.
- Customizable Comfort: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for various additions and substitutions, allowing you to personalize it to your heart’s content.
- Authentic Southern Charm: Experience a true taste of the South with this recipe. It embodies the rustic, soul-satisfying qualities of traditional Southern cooking, bringing warmth and genuine flavor to your table.
From its simple ingredient list to its complex, satisfying flavor, this cornbread pudding is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to savor the best of Southern cuisine.
Gather Your Ingredients for the Perfect Cornbread Pudding
Crafting this delightful cornbread pudding begins with a selection of readily available ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on classic components that come together to create a symphony of flavors. We focus on a blend of both whole kernel and cream-style corn to achieve that ideal balance of texture and moisture, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
You’ll find the precise quantities for each ingredient detailed in the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this post. For now, let’s explore the key players that contribute to the pudding’s exceptional taste and texture:
Look for fresh, high-quality eggs and a good brand of sour cream to ensure maximum creaminess. When it comes to cornbread mix, we opt for a less sweet variety to maintain a savory-leaning profile, but feel free to adjust to your personal preference. Melted unsalted butter adds richness, while a touch of shredded cheddar cheese brings a subtle tang and gooey texture. Don’t forget the essential salt and pepper to season this wonderful concoction to perfection.
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Cornbread Pudding
Embark on your culinary journey with this easy-to-follow recipe walkthrough. This section provides a visual and descriptive overview of each crucial step, designed to guide you effortlessly from mixing bowl to a perfectly baked, golden-brown cornbread pudding. For the most detailed instructions, including exact measurements and cooking times, please refer to the complete recipe card found at the end of this article.
Chef’s Pro Tip: It’s completely normal for your cornbread pudding to appear slightly jiggly in the center when you first remove it from the oven. This is a good sign! Do not be tempted to overbake it. The pudding will continue to set and firm up beautifully as it rests. For optimal texture and flavor, allow it to cool and settle for at least 20 minutes before serving. Patience will be rewarded with the perfect creamy consistency.
Elevate Your Dish: Recipe Variations and Creative Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is the freedom to customize. This cornbread pudding recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Explore these exciting variations and substitutions to make this dish uniquely yours:
- Cornbread Mix Choice: The base of your pudding significantly impacts its flavor. While many recipes call for Jiffy Cornbread Mix, which tends to be sweeter, we personally love using Zatarain’s Cornbread Mix for a less sweet, more savory result. If you enjoy a sweeter profile, feel free to stick with Jiffy. Alternatively, for a truly homemade touch, you can use your favorite from-scratch cornbread recipe, ensuring the dry ingredients are pre-mixed before adding to the wet.
- Spice It Up with Peppers:
- Jalapeños: For those who appreciate a kick, finely diced fresh or canned jalapeños introduce a wonderful burst of flavor and a touch of heat, transforming it into a delightful sweet and spicy corn casserole. Remove seeds and membranes for a milder heat.
- Green Chiles: If you prefer a more subtle warmth, canned diced green chiles are an excellent choice. They offer a mild, earthy spice that complements the corn without overpowering it.
- Aromatic Additions: Elevate the savory depth with classic kitchen spices. A teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the overall taste, adding a layer of complexity that’s incredibly satisfying. Smoked paprika can also introduce a lovely smoky undertone.
- Cheesy Goodness: While cheddar is classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, a sharp Parmesan for a nutty bite, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses can add new dimensions to your pudding.
- Hearty Add-ins: Turn your side dish into a more substantial offering by incorporating cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even browned sausage. For vegetarian options, consider sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or finely chopped spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
- Creamier Texture: For an even richer, creamier pudding, you can swap out half of the sour cream for an equal amount of softened cream cheese. This will add a decadent tang and an incredibly smooth consistency.
- Herbaceous Notes: Fresh or dried herbs can significantly brighten the flavor. A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives, parsley, or a pinch of dried thyme or sage can introduce an aromatic freshness that pairs beautifully with the corn.
These variations offer endless possibilities, allowing you to adapt this humble cornbread pudding into a dish that perfectly suits your occasion and taste.
Troubleshooting Your Cornbread Pudding: Common Issues & Solutions
Even the most straightforward recipes can encounter a hiccup or two. Here’s a guide to common issues you might face when making cornbread pudding and how to easily resolve them, ensuring your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- “My Pudding is Still Jiggly!”
As mentioned in our pro tip, a slight jiggle in the center is normal when the pudding comes out of the oven, as it continues to set while resting. However, if it feels excessively loose or liquidy, or if the top has browned beautifully but the inside isn’t quite done, don’t despair. You can loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent further browning, and then return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This usually happens if your oven runs a little cooler than its set temperature, or if the baking time was slightly underestimated.
- “Why is My Cornbread Pudding Dry?”
A dry pudding often indicates an imbalance in the wet-to-dry ingredient ratio, or it might have been overbaked. Ensure you’ve accurately measured all liquids, especially the sour cream and melted butter. Overmixing the cornbread mix can also develop gluten, leading to a tougher, drier texture. To remedy a slightly dry pudding after baking, you can try serving it with a dollop of extra sour cream or a drizzle of melted butter on top.
- “My Pudding Turned Out Soupy!”
Conversely, a soupy pudding also points to an incorrect wet-to-dry ratio. This is particularly crucial if you’ve substituted the cornbread mix. For instance, if you use a brand like Jiffy, which typically comes in 8.5 oz boxes, instead of the 12.5 oz boxes (like Zatarain’s) specified in this recipe, you would need *three* boxes of the smaller mix to achieve the correct dry ingredient volume. Always double-check the ounces of your chosen cornbread mix and adjust accordingly to match the recipe’s intended quantity.
- Uneven Baking: If one part of your pudding is cooking faster than another, your oven might have hot spots. Try rotating the dish halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and a consistent golden-brown crust.
- Flat Flavor: If your pudding lacks that vibrant taste, it might be under-seasoned. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Taste a small portion of the raw batter (before adding eggs for safety) to gauge initial seasoning, and always adjust to your preference. Adding a pinch of garlic or onion powder can also boost the savory notes.
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Essential Kitchen Gear: Equipment for Success
The right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, simplifying your cooking process and ensuring consistent results. For this cornbread pudding recipe, you won’t need an arsenal of specialty gadgets; just a few fundamental items will suffice. Investing in good quality kitchen equipment, even basic pieces, pays off in the long run.
At its core, preparing this dish requires nothing more than a reliable mixing bowl and a sturdy baking dish. We’ve included affiliate links below to the exact or similar equipment that we use in our kitchen, making it easy for you to find tried-and-true products that will serve you well for years to come.
Having a spacious mixing bowl allows for easy, splatter-free combining of ingredients, while a durable 13×9 inch baking dish ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation. These items are workhorses in any kitchen and will be used far beyond this recipe alone.
Discover More Beloved Southern Holiday Sides
If you’ve enjoyed this delightful cornbread pudding, you’re sure to love these other cherished holiday side dishes from our collection. They are perfect for complementing your festive feasts or adding a touch of Southern comfort to any meal:
- Cajun Rice Dressing
- Homemade Dried Cranberry Sauce
- Amish Turkey Stuffing
- Delightful Sweet Potato Fluff
- Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Emeril’s Baked Oyster Dressing
- Cajun Cornbread Dressing
- Southern Black Eyed Peas with Collard Greens
- Slow Cooker Jiffy Corn Casserole
- Creamy Broccoli Casserole
- Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts with Pistachios
Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Cornbread Pudding Fresh
Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious cornbread pudding for days to come. If you find yourself with leftovers – a rare but welcome occurrence! – here’s how to store them to maintain optimal freshness and flavor:
For short-term storage, transfer any remaining pudding to an airtight container. This will protect it from drying out and absorbing other odors in your refrigerator. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Alternatively, if your casserole dish has a lid or can be snugly covered with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, you can simply cover the entire dish and place it directly into the refrigerator.
Ensure the pudding has cooled completely to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation, which can make the pudding soggy.
Freezing Cornbread Pudding: A Make-Ahead Marvel
Absolutely! Cornbread pudding is a fantastic candidate for freezing, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy periods or holiday meal prep. Freezing allows you to extend its shelf life significantly, so you can enjoy this comfort food whenever a craving strikes.
To freeze, first ensure the pudding has cooled completely. Divide it into individual portions or freeze it as a whole in a freezer-safe container. For best results, wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This extra layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn.
Frozen cornbread pudding can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures even thawing and prevents the pudding from becoming watery.
About The Author
Melanie Cagle
Melanie Cagle is a celebrated professional cook, gifted food photographer, and a passionate connoisseur of authentic Cajun cuisine. Since 2020, she has been dedicated to sharing meticulously tested recipes and insightful culinary tutorials right here on her blog. Her work is a testament to her love for food, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also approachable for home cooks.
Melanie’s culinary expertise and captivating food photography have garnered widespread recognition, with her work being featured on prominent platforms such as Fox News channels, Yahoo News, Southern Living, and many more esteemed publications. Her commitment to quality and flavor shines through in every recipe she shares.
Melanie’s Kitchen Notes & Reheating Guide
When it comes to reheating leftover cornbread pudding, my top recommendation is always the microwave. Reheating in the microwave gently warms the casserole through without stripping away its precious moisture, ensuring it remains as tender and delicious as when it was freshly baked. Using an oven, while possible, tends to dry out the edges and sometimes the entire dish, altering its creamy texture. If you must use the oven, cover it tightly with foil and heat at a lower temperature (around 300°F) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too dry.
Serving Suggestions for Cornbread Pudding
This versatile dish shines in many contexts. Serve it hot alongside roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken. It’s also a phenomenal companion to barbecue, pork chops, or even a hearty bowl of chili. For a simple family meal, pair it with some southern green beans and a fresh salad. Don’t be afraid to serve it straight from the baking dish for a rustic, communal feel. A sprinkle of fresh chives or a dollop of extra sour cream can add a beautiful finishing touch.
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Homemade Cornbread Pudding Recipe
Soft, creamy, and packed with flavor, this homemade cornbread pudding is the perfect versatile side dish for any meal, from holiday feasts to everyday dinners.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 8 people
Cuisine: Southern, Casseroles, Holiday Side Dish
Author: Melanie Cagle
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Equipment
- 1 Large Glass Mixing Bowl
- 1 13×9 Inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 3 Large Eggs
- 2 (15 Ounce) Cans Whole Kernel Corn, drained
- 2 (15 Ounce) Cans Cream Style Corn
- 2 Cups Sour Cream
- 1 Cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- ½ Cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded (plus more for topping, optional)
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- 2 (12.5 Ounce) Boxes Cornbread Mix (such as Zatarain’s for less sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 3 large eggs and beat them thoroughly with a wire whisk until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Add the creamed corn, whole kernel corn, sour cream, melted unsalted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix all these wet ingredients together until well combined.
- Carefully add the 2 boxes of cornbread mix to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until the cornbread mix is just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the pudding tough.
- Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 13×9 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. The center may still appear slightly jiggly, which is normal.
- Remove from the oven and let the cornbread pudding rest for at least 20 minutes before serving. This allows it to set completely and achieve its perfect creamy texture.
Notes
When the cornbread pudding is removed from the oven, it’s common for the middle to still feel a bit jiggly. Rest assured, it will continue to firm up beautifully as it cools. Avoid serving immediately for the best consistency. If you substituted the cornbread mix, ensure the total weight matches the 25 oz specified (e.g., if using 8.5 oz Jiffy boxes, use three boxes).
Nutrition
Serving: 200g | Calories: 736kcal | Carbohydrates: 75g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 45g | Saturated Fat: 24g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 103mg | Sodium: 983mg | Potassium: 391mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 1297IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 155mg | Iron: 2mg