Loaded Cornbread Casserole is a cozy, hearty dish that combines sweet cornbread with creamy corn, melted cheese, and crispy bits of bacon or sausage. It has a wonderful mix of textures—soft and fluffy cornbread with little bursts of juicy corn and gooey cheese hiding throughout. This casserole is an easy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love to make this casserole when I want something simple but special. It’s one of those recipes where all the favorite flavors come together without much fuss, and it always pleases a crowd. I usually add extra cheese on top to get that golden, bubbly crust, which makes it even better. Plus, it’s a great way to use any leftover corn you have sitting in the fridge.
My favorite way to serve this is alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a nice balance. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings where everyone wants a little comfort food on the table. I’m pretty sure once you try this, it’ll become one of your go-to dishes when you need something easy and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornmeal: This is the base of your cornbread and brings that classic grainy texture. Yellow cornmeal adds color and slightly sweet flavor. If you’re short on cornmeal, you can try masa harina for a different but tasty twist.
Sour Cream: It keeps the casserole moist and adds a little tang. You can swap it with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great punch of flavor that pairs well with sweet corn. If you want a milder taste, Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well too.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky crunch that makes this dish stand out. For a vegetarian version, try smoked paprika or cooked mushrooms for a bit of earthiness.
How Do I Ensure a Moist and Fluffy Cornbread Casserole?
The key to a tender, moist casserole is not overmixing and balancing wet and dry ingredients well. Follow these tips:
- Mix wet ingredients separately and add to dry just until blended—avoid over-stirring to keep it light.
- Use sour cream or yogurt to keep moisture locked in while baking.
- Don’t forget the melted butter; it adds richness and moisture that keeps the cornbread soft.
- Bake at 350°F and test with a toothpick to avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.
With these tips, your casserole will be fluffy inside with a nice, golden crust on top every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size for the casserole to bake evenly without spilling.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need at least two for wet and dry ingredients to keep things organized.
- Whisk – helps blend wet ingredients smoothly and mix batter without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy matters for baking success.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for folding in cheese and bacon without overmixing.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling your hot baking dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or chorizo to change up the meat flavor with a little spice.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies for an extra layer of heat and flavor.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or chopped bell peppers to boost veggies and color.
How to Make Loaded Cornbread Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients and Add-ins:
- 1 cup whole kernel corn, drained (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40-45 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 10 minutes to cool before serving. So, plan for roughly 1 hour from start to finish to enjoy your warm, delicious casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these together well to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, sour cream, creamed corn, whole kernel corn, and melted butter until smooth and well blended.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined — be careful not to overmix as this keeps the casserole light and fluffy.
5. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Green Onions:
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the chopped bacon, and half of the green onions into the batter. This adds great flavor within the casserole.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top gently. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions evenly over the surface for a tasty topping.
7. Bake and Cool:
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top turns a lovely golden brown. Once done, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh or Canned?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from frozen corn before adding it to the batter. This helps prevent extra moisture that could affect the texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Cornbread Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is There a Good Vegetarian Substitute for Bacon in This Recipe?
Yes, you can replace bacon with smoked paprika, diced smoked tofu, or sautéed mushrooms to add that savory, smoky flavor without meat.
