Loaded Cornbread Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the best of cornbread, cheese, and bacon into a single, irresistible casserole, this Loaded Cornbread Casserole is it! Packed with creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish for your favorite hearty meals. With a hint of green chilies, it brings just the right amount of kick to the table. Let’s dive into why this casserole will become your new go-to comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
• 1 can (4 oz) green chilies, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon
• 1/2 cup diced green onions
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a skillet or baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, sour cream, cream-style corn, green chilies, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, diced green onions, eggs, and melted butter. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy golden crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Cornbread Casserole

• Use a cast-iron skillet for even baking and an extra-crispy edge.
• Feel free to add a touch of spice with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey for an added layer of flavor.

Nutritional Information
This Loaded Cornbread Casserole serves 8 and has approximately 350 calories per serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair It Up: Serve this casserole alongside BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or a hearty chili for a complete meal.
• Toppings to Try: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Potlucks: Slice it into squares for easy serving at gatherings or events.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Tip: To retain its moist texture, cover the casserole with foil when reheating in the oven.

Variations

Take your Loaded Cornbread Casserole to the next level with these creative and tasty variations:

1. Spicy Southwest Twist

• Add 1/2 cup of diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Mix in 1/2 cup of black beans and 1/2 cup of corn kernels for a Tex-Mex vibe.
• Top with sliced avocado and a dollop of salsa before serving.

2. Meaty Upgrade

• Swap bacon for crumbled sausage, cooked ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• For a smoky flavor, try using diced smoked ham or chorizo.

3. Vegetarian-Friendly

• Omit the bacon and add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Use a plant-based cheese alternative to make it dairy-free if needed.

4. Cheesy Overload

• Mix in 1/2 cup of cream cheese or 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or smoked Gouda for a unique flavor twist.

5. Sweet and Savory Combo

• Stir in 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
• Add 1/2 cup of diced apples or dried cranberries to create a sweet-savory balance.

6. Cornbread Chili Bake

• Layer the cornbread mixture over a layer of chili in the baking dish.
• Top with extra cheese and bake as directed for a hearty, two-in-one dish.

7. Herb-Infused Delight

• Add fresh herbs like chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the mixture.
• Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and garlic powder for an earthy flavor boost.

8. Breakfast Style

• Add cooked breakfast sausage, diced bell peppers, and shredded hash browns to the mixture.
• Serve it with a fried egg on top for a hearty morning meal.

These variations allow you to customize your Loaded Cornbread Casserole to suit any taste or occasion. Experiment and find your favorite version!

FAQs

1. Can I make Loaded Cornbread Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes, and then bake as directed.

2. Can I use homemade cornbread mix instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Substitute the store-bought mix with your favorite homemade cornbread mix. Just ensure it’s the equivalent of an 8.5 oz package for the best results.

3. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free cornbread mix and double-check that all other ingredients, like bacon and cream-style corn, are gluten-free.

4. Can I substitute the sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute. Both work well to keep the casserole moist.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain its texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method gives better results.

6. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, corn kernels, jalapeños, or even spinach can be added to boost the veggie content and flavor.

7. Can I freeze Loaded Cornbread Casserole?
Yes, once baked, allow it to cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

8. What other cheese can I use?
Cheddar works great, but you can also try Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for added variety.

9. Can I make it spicier?
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. Top with sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.

10. How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it’s still wet, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

These FAQs address common concerns and offer tips to ensure your Loaded Cornbread Casserole turns out perfectly every time!

Loaded Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, its cheesy, bacony goodness is guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. Whip it up tonight, and watch it become a family favorite!

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