Cornbread Casserole

This comforting cornbread casserole is a moist and delicious side dish that pairs well with many main dishes, including beans, baked ham, chicken, soups, stews, and chili. Sour cream, butter, and cream-style corn make it super moist and more like a side dish casserole than a bread. And you’ll like the fact that it’s easy enough for any meal. Combine a package of corn muffin mix with eggs, sour cream, butter, and two cans of corn, and you have a fantastic side dish!

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a potluck, or a weeknight dinner, this corn casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

What I Love About This Recipe

• Moist and tender texture. The combination of sour cream, butter, and the two corn varieties keeps the casserole soft, almost custard-like around the edges, with enough structure to hold its shape when sliced.
• Simple pantry ingredients. Everything in this recipe is easy to keep on hand, and the preparation requires only one bowl. It’s a straightforward option when you need a reliable side dish quickly.
• Versatile pairing. The mild flavor works with many main dishes, from smoked meats to roasted poultry. It fits easily into both casual meals and holiday spreads.
• Consistent results. Using a boxed mix removes the guesswork, and the bake time allows the casserole to set without drying out. Even first-time cooks can achieve good texture.
• Great for gatherings. The casserole holds heat well and remains soft as it cools. It can be baked ahead and gently reheated, making it a practical option for potlucks or family meals.

Ingredient Notes

• Corn muffin mix – Jiffy is the familiar choice and produces a lightly sweet, tender base. Other brands work as long as the package size is similar.
• Sour cream – Adds moisture and a subtle tang. Full-fat gives the richest result, but light sour cream works if you prefer a lighter dish.
• Butter – Melted butter improves flavor and structure. Salted or unsalted both work; adjust salt in your meal accordingly.
• Whole kernel corn – Drained corn adds texture and small pops of sweetness. Frozen corn can be used if thawed and patted dry.
• Cream-style corn – Contributes moisture and a smooth consistency that helps the casserole set without becoming dense.
• Eggs – Bind the mixture and help with structure while keeping the overall texture soft.

Steps to Make Cornbread Casserole

1. Prepare your baking pan and preheat the oven so the casserole goes into consistent heat and rises evenly.
2. Whisk the eggs with the sour cream, then add the melted butter. Starting with the wet ingredients ensures the batter comes together smoothly.
3. Stir in the muffin mix until no dry spots remain. The batter will be thick but should blend easily.
4. Fold in the whole kernel corn and cream-style corn. The mixture will loosen and become scoopable.
5. Spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer for uniform baking.
6. Bake until the top is lightly browned and the center is set. A slight jiggle is normal and will firm up as it cools.
7. Let the casserole rest briefly before cutting. Cooling allows the texture to settle without drying.

Pro Tips

• Check for doneness by lightly touching the center; it should feel set but soft.
• Rest the casserole before slicing to help it hold its shape.
• Stir the batter gently after adding the corn to avoid crushing the kernels.
• Use a metal pan for the most even browning; glass may require a few extra minutes.
• Serve warm for the best texture, as the casserole firms up as it cools.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese: Add 1 cup of sharp cheddar, Monterey jack, or pepper jack cheese to the batter.
• Vegetables: Add a few tablespoons of finely chopped onions and red bell pepper for extra flavor and color.
• Heat: Add 2 tablespoons of minced jalapeño pepper to the batter.
• Sausage: Brown 1/2 to 1 cup of sausage, drain it well and add it to the batter.

Serving Ideas

• Beans: The casserole pairs beautifully with baked beans, slow cooker red beans and rice, and barbecued baked beans.
• Pork Ribs: The casserole’s moist, creamy texture balances the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ ribs.
• Pulled Pork: The natural sweetness of the corn contrasts nicely with the savory and tangy pulled pork.
• Fried Chicken: Crispy buttermilk fried chicken and moist, creamy casserole make a fabulous Southern-style meal.
• Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast.
• Chili: If you like cornbread with your chili, change things up with this flavorful casserole.