Southern corn pudding casserole is a cherished staple in Southern U.S. cuisine, known for its comforting and heartwarming qualities. This dish blends the natural sweetness of corn with a rich, custard-like base. It creates a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether it’s served at a holiday table or a casual family dinner, corn pudding casserole promises to delight everyone. In this detailed guide, I’ll take you through the steps to create this classic dish, complete with both U.S. and Metric measurements for your convenience.
Introduction
Corn pudding casserole originates from the Southern United States, a region known for its robust and hearty comfort foods. This dish combines the flavors of fresh (or canned) corn with a creamy custard. The custard is lightly spiced and baked to perfection. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The texture ranges from a soft pudding underneath to a lightly crisped top. This guide will help you if you are new to Southern cuisine. It will also assist you if you want to perfect your corn pudding recipe. You will master this beloved dish.
Classic Southern Corn Pudding Casserole Recipe
This rich and creamy corn pudding casserole is a comforting Southern classic with a touch of smoky cheese. Perfect for family gatherings and holidays!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | US Measure | Metric Measure |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | 16 g |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp | 8 g |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 5 g |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 1 g |
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ tsp | 0.5 g |
| Milk | 1 ½ cups | 360 ml |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | 120 ml |
| Brown sugar | ⅓ cup | 65 g |
| Butter, melted | ¼ cup | 60 ml |
| Eggs | 4 large | 4 large |
| Corn kernels | 2 lb | 900 g |
| Smoked cheese, shredded | 1 ½ cups | 170 g |
Preparation Directions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2
In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg.
Step 3
In a large bowl, add the milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5
Fold in the corn kernels and smoked cheese until evenly distributed.
Step 6
Pour the mixture into an 11×13 inch (28×33 cm) baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 minutes. The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 7
Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
Step 8
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Corn Pudding
- Choice of Corn: Fresh corn is ideal when in season; it offers the best flavor and texture. However, well-drained canned corn or thawed frozen corn also works well.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the nutmeg and pepper according to your taste preferences. Some like a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Corn pudding pairs beautifully with barbecue, roasted meats, or poultry. It’s equally at home next to a green salad for a lighter meal.
Conclusion
Southern corn pudding casserole is more than just a side dish. It’s a versatile comfort food. It holds a place of honor in Southern culinary tradition. By following the steps outlined above, you can bring this delicious, comforting staple into your own kitchen. Whether you’re dressing up a holiday spread, corn pudding is sure to satisfy. It also works well for making a weekday meal more special.
Enjoy the process of making this delightful dish. You’ll get many compliments from friends and family who try it!
