Loaded Cornbread Casserole is a cozy mix of sweet cornbread, cheesy goodness, and a handful of tasty extras like corn kernels and maybe some peppers or bacon. It’s got that warm, comforting vibe that just feels like a big, friendly hug on a plate. The cornbread is soft and fluffy, with melty cheese weaving through every bite—making this more than just a side dish.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but special enough to impress without much fuss. One of my favorite parts is the way the cheese melts and forms little pockets that surprise you as you dig in. I usually sneak in some cooked bacon or jalapeños to ramp up the flavor, but even plain with just corn and cheese, it’s always a crowd-pleaser at our family dinners.
When I serve this, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to keep things balanced. It’s delicious straight out of the baking dish, warm and bubbly, and leftovers (if there are any) taste great reheated the next day. This casserole is just one of those dishes that makes me feel like home, every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: The base for this casserole, it gives that classic corn flavor and soft texture. No box mix? Use your favorite homemade recipe with cornmeal, flour, and baking powder.
Sour Cream & Creamed Corn: These keep the casserole moist and add creamy sweetness. Greek yogurt works as a tangy substitute for sour cream, and if you don’t have creamed corn, just add more whole kernels with a splash of milk.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, melty layer. You can swap for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. The cheese on top gives a nice crust when baked.
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings in a smoky, savory kick. For a vegetarian option, skip bacon or add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth.
Green Onions: These add a mild, fresh bite. If you don’t have green onions, mild white or yellow onions work fine, or fresh chives for a milder touch.
How Do You Make the Casserole Moist but Well-Set?
This casserole balances creamy and fluffy, which can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Use sour cream and creamed corn—they add moisture without making it runny.
- Don’t overmix when combining ingredients; mix just until blended to keep the texture tender.
- Bake at 350°F and check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Let it rest 5 minutes after baking so it firms up a bit for clean slices.
- If you want extra richness, stir in a little melted butter before baking.
Following these steps will make sure your cornbread casserole turns out perfectly moist inside with a golden, cheesy top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size to bake the casserole evenly and easy to serve from.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all the ingredients without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get accurate amounts for the mix and add-ins.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for folding in cheese and bacon gently.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot baking dish when taking it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon with cooked sausage or diced ham for a different meaty flavor that still adds savoriness.
- Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to bring a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the corn.
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers or green beans for extra veggies and a little crunch.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder or creamier cheese flavor instead of cheddar.
How to Make Loaded Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup canned creamed corn
- 1 cup canned whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (if using homemade cornbread mix)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes for baking. Add about 5 minutes extra to let the casserole cool before serving. Overall, around 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the cornbread mix, sour cream, creamed corn, whole kernel corn, eggs, and melted butter. If you’re using homemade cornbread mix, be sure to add the baking powder now. Stir everything together gently until the batter is well blended.
3. Add Cheese, Bacon, and Flavorings
Fold in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled cooked bacon. Add salt and pepper to your taste. If you enjoy a little sharpness and freshness, toss in the chopped green onions as well.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
5. Bake and Cool
Bake the casserole for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top turns golden brown. To check, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs. Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a touch of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your warm, comforting Loaded Cornbread Casserole as a delicious side or main dish!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned Corn?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw frozen corn completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the casserole to avoid a soggy texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep it moist and tasty.
Can I Substitute Bacon for a Vegetarian Option?
Yes, you can omit the bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to add depth of flavor without the meat.
