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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread with a delightful medley of cheese, ham, and sweet corn, then you’re going to love this Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe. It’s a hearty, satisfying casserole that hits all the right notes — creamy, savory, and just a little bit sweet — making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekend meals. Once you try it, this recipe will surely become a beloved staple in your kitchen because it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in a way that’s both comforting and vibrant. Each one plays a crucial role, whether boosting flavor, adding texture, or lending that golden cornbread charm.
- ½ white onion (diced): Adds a gentle sweetness and slight crunch for balance.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Gives a subtle, savory depth to the base flavor.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (½ brick): Creates a creamy, luscious element that blends everything together beautifully.
- 16 ounces corn (fresh, frozen, or canned): Provides bursts of juicy sweetness and texture throughout the casserole.
- 1 cup diced ham: Introduces a smoky, meaty contrast that makes the dish truly satisfying.
- 17 ounces Jiffy corn muffin mix (2 boxes): The star ingredient for that classic cornbread body and golden crust.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Bind all the ingredients and add richness.
- â…” cup milk: Keeps the casserole moist and tender.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Brings a tangy creaminess that brightens the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a little spicy kick, balancing the sweeter elements.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey bites of flavor throughout the casserole.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish): A fresh, mild onion flavor plus a pop of green for presentation.
How to Make Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F, the perfect temperature to gently bake this casserole to a golden, bubbly finish. Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a good spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Onion, Garlic, and Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, soften the diced onion and garlic for about 2 minutes. This brief cooking unlocks their sweetness and aroma without overpowering the dish. Next, add in the cream cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly. Then, gently fold in half the corn — this mixture will be the creamy, flavorful base that ties the casserole together.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together your cooked onion and cream cheese mixture with the remaining corn, diced ham, corn muffin mix, beaten eggs, milk, sour cream, paprika, black pepper, and cheddar cheese. Stir everything until just combined. This mixture promises a casserole with perfect pockets of cheesy, cornbread goodness and bursts of corn and ham in every bite.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out to the edges. Pop it onto the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your casserole comes out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh, chopped chives over the top. Not only do the chives add a lovely pop of color, but they introduce a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish perfectly before you dig in.
How to Serve Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped chives is the classic finishing touch, but for an extra treat, a dollop of sour cream or a scattering of crispy fried onions can add delightful texture and creaminess that complements the casserole’s rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully hearty on its own, but you could create a balanced meal by pairing it with a light salad of mixed greens tossed in a citrus vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables to add some earthiness and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual portions in ramekins for a cute presentation at your next gathering, or serve as part of a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a comforting, crowd-pleasing feast. The versatility of this Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe makes it a standout at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner option.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you’ll always have comforting convenience waiting in your freezer.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly, restoring its fresh-from-the-oven charm.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of ham?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon, sausage, or even shredded chicken work wonderfully in this recipe, giving you flexibility to tailor the casserole to your taste and what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ham and consider adding extra corn, diced bell peppers, or black beans for extra texture and flavor while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
What type of corn muffin mix is best?
The classic Jiffy corn muffin mix is ideal because of its sweet balance and texture, but any store-bought corn muffin mix should do the trick if that’s what you have available.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap out the cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese for their non-dairy counterparts, and use a plant-based milk; just keep in mind the taste and texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
How spicy is this casserole?
This dish is mild and comforting with just a touch of warmth from the black pepper and paprika, making it perfect for all ages and palates who enjoy classic comfort food.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that’s simple to make but full of layered, irresistible flavors, this Loaded Cornbread Casserole Recipe is a must-try. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together — whether around a holiday table, a casual dinner, or a potluck — and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Dive in and enjoy every cheesy, savory, golden bite!
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