Loaded Cornbread Casserole 🌽🧀🥓
Get ready for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s pure comfort food bliss! 💛 This Loaded Cornbread Casserole is fluffy, cheesy, savory, and packed with all your favorite mix-ins like crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tender corn. Perfect as a hearty side dish or even a main course, this casserole is ideal for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or when you’re craving a warm and filling bake that disappears in minutes.
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 8–10
Ingredients:
For the Cornbread Base:
1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread batter)
1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
1 cup whole corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
½ cup sour cream
½ cup milk
2 large eggs
For the Loaded Add-Ins:
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
6 slices crispy bacon, cooked & crumbled
½ cup green onions, chopped
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
Extra cheese
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Jalapeño slices for a spicy kick
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish (or similar baking pan).
2. Mix the cornbread base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix, creamed corn, whole corn kernels, sour cream, milk, and eggs. Stir until just combined — don’t overmix, as this keeps the casserole light and fluffy.
3. Add the flavor boosters:
Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Reserve a small amount of bacon and cheese for topping.
4. Assemble the casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and cheese on top for an irresistible golden crust.
5. Bake to perfection:
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Garnish & serve:
Let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or jalapeño slices if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or hearty main!
Tips & Variations:
✅ Add diced cooked chicken or ground beef to make it a complete meal.
✅ Swap cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a zesty twist.
✅ For a creamier casserole, mix in ½ cup cream cheese to the batter.
✅ Make ahead by assembling the casserole a day in advance and refrigerating before baking.