Introduction to Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, especially for busy professionals with jam-packed schedules. That’s where the easy one pan cornbread casserole comes in. This delicious dish not only saves time but also allows you to create a comforting meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole checks all the boxes.
Why is Cornbread Casserole a Go-To Dish for Busy Professionals?
Life is hectic, and finding recipes that are quick yet satisfying can be challenging. This cornbread casserole is a perfect solution as it comes together in about an hour, using just eight ingredients! No need to juggle multiple pots and pans; everything you need can be prepared in one dish. As you mix your ingredients, imagine how great it will feel to sit down with family or friends, savoring every bite while enjoying quality time together.
Moreover, cornbread casserole is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with proteins like Turkey Bacon, Chicken Ham, or even a hearty bowl of chili. This means you can whip it up for various occasions—be it a casual dinner or a festive gathering. So next time you're staring into your fridge wondering what to make, remember this delightful, stress-free dish is just a recipe away. Enjoy making those beautiful kitchen memories!
What you'll need for a delightful casserole
Crafting your own easy one pan cornbread casserole is as simple as gathering a handful of staple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter: Start with one stick to add rich flavors.
- Corn: Grab a 15 oz. can of whole kernel corn (drained) and a 15 oz. can of creamed corn (don’t drain this one!).
- Sour Cream: Eight ounces will bring creaminess to the dish.
- Eggs: Two large eggs to bind everything together.
- Sugar and Salt: Use three tablespoons of granulated sugar along with ½ teaspoon of Kosher salt to balance the flavors.
- Jiffy Cornbread Mix: An 8.5 oz. box will make your life easier and provide the perfect cornbread texture.
With these ingredients, you’ll create a dish ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for the perfect side to your favorite comfort food. Happy cooking! For more tips, check out this great resource on using corn in recipes.
Preparing Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Making an easy one pan cornbread casserole is not only a time-saver but also a great way to become a kitchen pro with minimal effort. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to wow your guests or family. Let’s dive right into the preparation!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, it's essential to gather all the ingredients to make the process seamless. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 stick of butter
- 1 (15 oz.) can of whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz.) can of creamed corn, not drained
- 8 oz. sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 8.5 oz. box Jiffy cornbread mix
To add some flair, consider serving with thinly sliced chives, butter, or honey. It really elevates the experience! For some helpful tips on ingredient selection, you might want to check out this comprehensive guide on choosing cornbread ingredients.
Preheat Your Oven
Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before you get too far along. This step ensures that your easy one pan cornbread casserole cooks evenly from the moment it's placed inside. If you do this part first, it will save some time later!
Melt the Butter and Prepare the Skillet
Grab a large cast iron skillet or your favorite baking dish. If you’re going with cast iron (which provides fantastic heat retention), melt the stick of butter over medium-low heat—this helps in creating a lovely base for your casserole. You can also melt the butter in the microwave if that’s easier for you. Just remember to brush it up the sides of the skillet for that delightful, buttery crust!
Combine the Ingredients
Once your skillet is ready, it’s time to combine all your ingredients. In the skillet, mix the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, eggs, granulated sugar, and salt until well blended. Then, gently fold in the Jiffy cornbread mix until everything is just combined. Don't overmix! This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture.
Bake to Perfection
Now, spread the mixture flat in the skillet and pop it into the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean! Keep an eye on the top; if it seems to brown too quickly, you can cover it with foil to maintain that gorgeous golden color.
In no time, you’ll have a delicious, easy one pan cornbread casserole that's perfect as a side dish for any gathering or a comforting addition to your weeknight meals. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Variations on Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Exploring variations on this easy one pan cornbread casserole can elevate your dining experience and cater to different taste preferences. Here are two delightful twists to consider:
Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Casserole
If you enjoy a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños to your cornbread casserole. Start with one or two, depending on your spice level. This zesty addition will complement the sweetness of the cornbread perfectly. Consider incorporating pepper jack cheese for a melty, flavorful crown on top!
Cheesy Cornbread Casserole with Herbs
For a more indulgent flavor profile, mix in shredded cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The melted cheese adds a rich, creamy texture, while the herbs introduce a fragrant freshness. Pair it with a comforting soup or a light salad for a scrumptious meal that friends and family will rave about!
Feel free to get creative—casseroles are all about customization! For more delicious ideas and recipes, check out this guide on casserole creativity.
Cooking tips and notes for Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Achieving the perfect texture
For your easy one pan cornbread casserole, a creamy consistency is key! Ensure you drain the whole kernel corn to prevent excess moisture. If it turns out a bit too mushy, just pop it back in the oven. Cover it with foil if the top is browning too quickly as it cooks through.
Tips for customizing flavors
Feel free to personalize your casserole! Add in your favorite ingredients like spicy jalapeños, cheese, or even diced Turkey Bacon for an extra kick. A sprinkle of garlic powder or some fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile too. The casserole is versatile, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
What to Pair It With for a Complete Meal
When you're enjoying your Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole, you'll want to complement its deliciously creamy texture with the right mains or sides. Here are a few delightful pairings to consider:
- Hearty Chili: A warm bowl of chili, whether it's classic beef chili or a vegetarian option, perfectly contrasts the casserole's sweetness.
- Smoked Baby Back Ribs: The smoky flavor of ribs balances nicely with the cornbread's sweetness.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve it alongside BBQ grilled chicken for a satisfying, summer-inspired meal.
- Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad or a tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
- Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham: These can add a savory touch to your meal, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combinations! For added flavor, drizzle some honey or spread a bit of butter on top of your cornbread casserole.
Time breakdown for Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Preparation Time
Getting started on your easy one pan cornbread casserole is a breeze! You'll need just 5 minutes to gather your ingredients, melt the butter, and mix everything together in your skillet.
Cooking Time
Once everything's combined, pop it in the oven for 50-55 minutes. That gives you time to enjoy a moment of relaxation or check off another task on your to-do list while it bakes!
Total Time
In just one hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish that serves 12 people. Perfect for large gatherings or meal prep!
Nutritional Facts for Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Calories and Macronutrients
A serving of easy one pan cornbread casserole (about ⅛ of the dish) contains approximately 227 calories. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Fat: 17.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 14.7 g
- Protein: 4.7 g
- Sugar: 6.2 g
- Sodium: 164.9 mg
- Fiber: 0.9 g
These nutritional values make it a satisfying side dish while keeping it on the lighter side.
Dietary Considerations
This cornbread casserole is vegetarian and perfect for those looking to reduce meat intake. However, be mindful if you're watching your sodium or sugar intake, as it may be higher than some other side dishes. For additional dietary needs, consider substituting ingredients like low-fat sour cream or a sugar alternative.
Looking for more healthy alternatives? Check out resources from Healthline or Nutrition.gov for tailored advice on modifying recipes for specific dietary restrictions.
FAQs about Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! The easy one pan cornbread casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until it's ready to go in the oven, then cover and refrigerate it. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This method is perfect for those busy holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners when you need to save time.
What are some good substitutes for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, don’t worry! You can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Another option is to blend silken tofu with a bit of lemon juice to mimic that creaminess without the dairy. Both substitutions work well to keep your casserole rich and delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple! Just let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions for a quick snack. Enjoy every last bite!
Conclusion on Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
The easy one pan cornbread casserole is not just a flavorful side; it's a time-saver and crowd-pleaser for any table. Whether it's Thanksgiving or a casual weekend dinner, its creamy texture and sweet cornbread flavor make it delightful. Grab your ingredients and create this simple dish that everyone will love!
Easy One Pan Cornbread Casserole
Equipment
- large cast iron skillet
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 stick butter melted
- 1 15 oz can whole kernel corn drained
- 1 15 oz can creamed corn not drained
- 8 oz sour cream
- 2 whole eggs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 8.5 oz box Jiffy cornbread mix
Serving Suggestions
- thinly sliced chives
- butter for serving
- honey for serving
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 degrees.
- Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium low heat (or in the microwave and then pour it into your baking dish).
- Gently brush the butter up the sides of the skillet to coat the pan.
- Add corn kernels, creamed corn, sour cream, eggs, sugar, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add Jiffy cornbread mix.
- Stir until just combined and use a spatula to spread flat on top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Garnish with chives if desired or serve with butter and honey. Enjoy!
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