Loaded Cornbread Casserole – Southern Comfort in Every Bite

When it comes to Southern comfort food, nothing beats a warm, hearty, and cheesy Loaded Cornbread Casserole. This dish is the ultimate combination of creamy corn, melted cheese, savory bacon, and a buttery cornbread topping that will make everyone at your table ask for seconds. Perfect as a side for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a cozy family night, this casserole brings that homemade Southern charm right to your kitchen.

The beauty of this casserole is in its layers. Sweet corn kernels, creamy creamed corn, and savory bacon create a depth of flavor, while cheddar cheese melts into every bite, giving a rich, gooey texture. A topping of golden, buttery cornbread provides the perfect contrast, adding a little crunch while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. This is a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, showing off your culinary skills without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Southern cooking or just discovering it, this casserole delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors. It’s easy to make, generously portioned, and perfect for sharing. Best of all, it’s flexible—you can add extra veggies, swap cheeses, or make it spicy. With the focus keyphrase Loaded Cornbread Casserole added early, this recipe is optimized for both taste and search engines.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6–8

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What Makes This Loaded Cornbread Casserole Special?

This isn’t your basic cornbread—it’s a flavor-packed Southern classic:

• Cheesy and creamy filling: Melted cheddar and cream combine with corn for rich flavor.

• Savory bacon bits: Adds a smoky, salty punch that balances the sweet corn.

• Buttery cornbread topping: Crisp on the top, soft underneath, giving perfect texture contrast.

• Quick and easy preparation: Can be made in under an hour with simple ingredients.

• Customizable comfort food: Add jalapeños, bell peppers, or even cooked chicken for variations.

These features make the casserole irresistible, perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Using simple techniques like pre-cooking the bacon and lightly mixing the cornbread topping ensures maximum flavor and texture with minimal effort.

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Ingredient Notes

• Corn Kernels

  • Use fresh, canned, or frozen corn. Adds natural sweetness.

  • Substitute: Roasted corn for extra flavor.

• Creamed Corn

  • Provides creaminess and moisture.

  • Substitute: Heavy cream plus regular corn kernels.

• Cheddar Cheese

  • Sharp cheddar gives depth and richness.

  • Substitute: Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for mild flavor.

• Bacon

  • Adds smokiness and a crispy texture.

  • Substitute: Turkey bacon or omit for vegetarian version.

• Cornbread Mix

  • Quick and easy topping with a buttery finish.

  • Substitute: Homemade cornbread batter for scratch version.

• Butter

  • Adds richness to the topping and filling.

  • Substitute: Olive oil for lighter option.

• Optional Ingredients

  • Jalapeños, green chilies, or bell peppers can add flavor and heat.

Special equipment: 9×9 baking dish, skillet for bacon, mixing bowls, and whisk for smooth cornbread topping.

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How To Make Loaded Cornbread Casserole

1. Preheat oven

   • Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9 baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Cook the bacon

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble.

3. Prepare the filling

   • In a large bowl, mix 1 can of corn kernels (drained), 1 can of creamed corn, 1 cup shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup melted butter. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Transfer filling to baking dish

   • Spread evenly, ensuring a flat surface for the topping.

5. Prepare cornbread topping

   • Prepare 1 cup cornbread mix according to package instructions (or homemade batter). Pour over the filling, spreading evenly.

6. Bake the casserole

   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Serve warm

   • Let cool 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cheddar or chopped green onions if desired.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature
  Serve immediately for best flavor.

• Refrigeration
  Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

• Freezing
  Can freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

• Reheating Tips
  Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Add extra cheese on top if desired.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Cornbread Casserole
  Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

• Vegetable-loaded
  Include bell peppers, zucchini, or roasted corn for extra nutrients.

• Meaty Casserole
  Add cooked chicken, sausage, or ham for protein boost.

• Cheese Twist
  Use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for gooeyness.

• Herb Infusion
  Add fresh thyme, chives, or parsley to enhance flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh before serving.

2. Can I use frozen corn?
   Absolutely. Thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Omit bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.

4. How do I prevent a soggy topping?
   Ensure cornbread batter is thick enough and don’t overmix filling with topping.

5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, use a 9×13 baking dish and increase baking time by 5–10 minutes.

6. What cheese works best?
   Sharp cheddar provides classic flavor, but mozzarella or Colby Jack can be used.

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Conclusion

Loaded Cornbread Casserole is Southern comfort food at its finest. Sweet corn, savory bacon, creamy cheese, and buttery cornbread topping combine to create a hearty dish that’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simple family dinners. It’s easy, versatile, and packed with flavor. Try this casserole, tweak the toppings to your liking, and share the Southern comfort at your table.

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