Description
This Hearty Southern Loaded Cornbread Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish combining classic southern ingredients like cornbread, bacon, cheddar cheese, and vegetables into a warm, satisfying casserole. Perfect as a side or main dish, it bakes to golden perfection with a creamy, savory texture enhanced by a touch of spice.
Ingredients
Scale
Cornbread Base
- 2 cups cornbread mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Mix-ins
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup sour cream
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish generously with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cornbread batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and eggs. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add the mix-ins: Stir in the drained canned corn, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, diced green bell pepper, diced onion, and sour cream along with the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour into casserole dish: Transfer the batter into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly using a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Cool before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes so it sets making it easier to slice.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley evenly over the casserole for a bright, fresh flavor and visual appeal before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference or leave it out for a milder casserole.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for best melting results and flavor.
- Make sure all vegetables are diced evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- The casserole pairs wonderfully with greens or a fresh salad as a complete meal.
