If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then the Cornbread Casserole Recipe: Simple Dinner Side Dish is just what you need! This delightful casserole marries the sweetness of corn with the creamy goodness of butter and sour cream, resulting in a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Picture a golden-baked delight that brings smiles to the table at family gatherings and potlucks alike.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this Cornbread Casserole is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. It’s incredibly versatile too, allowing for optional substitutions to suit various dietary preferences. Serve it alongside your favorite protein or make it the star of your dinner table; either way, this recipe will add a touch of homey goodness to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Casserole

Simple & Quick Preparation: With only a handful of ingredients, whipping up this cornbread casserole is a breeze.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to holiday gatherings, this dish complements a variety of main courses.
Comforting & Delicious: The creamy texture combined with the sweetness of corn creates a delectable flavor that beckons to be enjoyed.
Customizable: Make it your own with optional substitutions like Greek yogurt or vegan butter.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delightful cornbread casserole, it’s essential to prepare your workspace and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this step will ensure your casserole bakes evenly. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well to prevent sticking. Having a large mixing bowl and a whisk on hand will make combining your ingredients effortless. It’s also helpful to have a spatula for mixing the casserole and a measuring cup for accurate ingredient portions. Prepare your pantry by lining up your ingredients: Jiffy corn muffin mix, whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, unsalted butter, eggs, and sugar. Once everything is ready, it’s time to create this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients

1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional for added sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly throughout. Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or non-stick spray; this will help the casserole come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Whisk Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them together until they are fully blended. Then, add the melted unsalted butter and sour cream to the bowl. If you’re opting for extra sweetness, this is where you mix in the granulated sugar. Stir everything together until it is well combined; this will create a rich base for your casserole.

Step 3: Mix in Corn & Muffin Mix

Next, gently stir in the Jiffy corn muffin mix, making sure to evenly distribute it throughout the mixture. Then add the drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn, mixing until all the ingredients are nicely incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep some texture in the casserole.

Step 4: Pour into Baking Dish

Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the dish to promote consistent baking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. Watch for the top to turn a beautiful golden brown, and when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s ready.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into squares when you’re ready to serve.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even spinach for an added nutritional boost.
Spices: Amp up the flavor profile with chili powder, cumin, or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Cooking Notes

For a richer flavor, try using bacon fat or flavored oil to grease your baking dish.
This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to bake.
Cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking, then remove to allow the top to brown.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with your favorite grilled meats or roasted chicken for a complete meal.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a satisfying dinner.

Tips

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting for even mixing.
Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 290 per serving
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake!

Can I freeze cornbread casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze the casserole before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the Jiffy corn muffin mix with a gluten-free version available in stores.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover cornbread casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

The Cornbread Casserole Recipe: Simple Dinner Side Dish is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with heartwarming flavors that anyone can appreciate. With its easy preparation, comforting taste, and room for personalization, it can easily find a place at your family gatherings and special occasions. We invite you to try this delightful recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own. Share with family and friends, and enjoy the incredible taste of this classic dish!