# Cornbread Casserole: A Heartwarming Classic Crafted from Scratch
Cornbread casserole is a cherished meal that brings warmth and solace to any dining experience. With its soft center and lightly crunchy edges, this recipe offers a delightful way to savor cornbread without relying on a packaged mix. Made with straightforward pantry staples, it’s ideal for both regular dinners and festive gatherings.
## Flavor Characteristics
This cornbread casserole is moist, tasty, and has a hint of sweetness. The mix of creamed corn and cheese results in a melt-in-your-mouth consistency, while the golden-brown topping provides an inviting look.
## Necessary Tools
For optimal results, utilize a **9×13 casserole dish**. This size guarantees that the edges get lightly crisp while the middle stays soft.
## Serving Ideas
Cornbread casserole makes a wonderful side dish for holiday feasts. It complements wonderfully with:
– [Brown Sugar Ham](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/baked-ham-with-brown-sugar-glaze/)
– [Slow Cooker Turkey Breast](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/crock-pot-turkey-breast/)
– [Chili](https://www.spendwithpennies.com/texas-chili/)
## Pantry Corn Enchantment
### Key Ingredients
– **Corn**: The highlight of this dish. Utilize a mix of creamed corn and canned corn, or swap canned corn with 1½ cups of thawed frozen corn.
– **Cheese**: While sharp cheddar is typical, Monterey Jack may also be used, or for a spicy twist, opt for Pepper Jack and incorporate diced jalapeños.
– **Cornmeal**: Crucial for that traditional cornbread taste. Medium-grind cornmeal is suggested for the finest texture.
– **Sour Cream**: Introduces a tangy taste and contributes to moisture. If sour cream isn’t available, full-fat Greek yogurt is an acceptable alternative.
– **Variations**: For a smoky essence, include some cooked bacon and a dash of smoked paprika. You can also add chives or green onions for a savory note, or create a green chile casserole by adding green chiles and cumin.
## How It All Comes Together
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease your casserole dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt together.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs.
4. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together, stirring just until mixed. Gently fold in corn kernels and cheese if desired.
5. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until lightly golden.
### Success Tips
– For a more tender texture, allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes before baking.
– Modify sweetness by adding 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and consider including a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor.
– The casserole is finished when the center has slight jiggle and reaches about 200°F on an instant-read thermometer.
– To prep in advance, keep dry and wet ingredients apart for up to 24 hours. Combine prior to baking.
– For a half batch, use an **8×8 casserole dish** and begin checking for doneness around 35-40 minutes.
## Save for Later
Allow any leftovers to cool thoroughly and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to re-enjoy, heat covered at 325°F until warmed through, then uncover for a few minutes to refresh the edges.
## Conclusion
This cornbread casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a soothing classic that can be savored all year round. With its uncomplicated ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Relish the cozy flavors and the joy of sharing this delightful dish with loved ones!