Easy Corn Pudding Recipe – Creamy Southern Side Dish

There’s something so heartwarming about a recipe that instantly feels like home, and corn pudding is exactly that kind of dish. Whether you’re serving it as part of a holiday spread, a Sunday dinner, or even a casual weeknight meal, this creamy, buttery, and slightly sweet side dish never fails to bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia to the table. It’s like a warm hug in casserole form.

The magic of corn pudding lies in its texture. Somewhere between a moist cornbread and a soft custard, this dish is both spoonable and sliceable. It carries the sweet, golden flavor of corn in every bite, complemented by rich dairy and just enough sugar to balance out the savory notes. What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Most of the ingredients are pantry or fridge staples, and everything comes together in one bowl, which means minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a total kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

I first stumbled upon corn pudding at a friend’s potluck years ago. It was nestled among more elaborate dishes like glazed turkey and herbed stuffing, but it was the first one to disappear. People were going back for seconds before they’d even finished their first plate. I asked for the recipe, and to my surprise, it was nothing complicated—just a handful of ingredients, some gentle mixing, and a slow, steady bake. That version became a base I’ve built on over the years, tweaking it slightly to suit our family’s taste, but the heart of it—the comforting custard texture and sweet corn flavor—remains untouched.

Now, this corn pudding recipe has become a staple in my home. It’s the dish I bring to every family gathering, the one my kids request for birthdays and holidays, and the one I always make extra of, just for leftovers. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a real treat. If you have, get ready to fall in love with it all over again. Let’s dig in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wins over everyone—kids, picky eaters, and seasoned foodies alike—this corn pudding recipe checks all the boxes. It’s not just easy to make, it’s also rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and endlessly customizable. Let’s break down exactly why you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat.

Easy to Prepare: One of the biggest perks of corn pudding is how simple it is to make. You don’t need any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything gets mixed in one bowl, poured into a baking dish, and baked to perfection. It’s a great recipe for beginners and busy home cooks alike.

Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish has that nostalgic, homey vibe that makes you feel good with every bite. The buttery, creamy base and tender corn kernels offer a blend of savory and sweet flavors that are both familiar and deeply satisfying.

Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, corn pudding fits right in. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, fried chicken, grilled vegetables, or even just a fresh salad. It also works well as a potluck dish because it stays warm for a long time and reheats beautifully.

Family-Friendly: Kids absolutely love corn pudding. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and doesn’t have any unfamiliar ingredients, which makes it a hit even with picky eaters. You can even sneak in a few veggies or herbs without anyone noticing.

Health Benefits

While corn pudding is undoubtedly a comfort food, that doesn’t mean it lacks nutritional value. In fact, when prepared with a balanced perspective, this dish can offer a range of health benefits. Here’s what you can feel good about when you’re enjoying this creamy, golden treat.

High in Fiber: Thanks to the corn—both whole kernel and creamed—this dish delivers a decent amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and keep you feeling full longer. It also contributes to maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

Source of Essential Nutrients: Corn is packed with essential nutrients like folate, vitamin C, and magnesium. Folate is especially important for cellular health and can be beneficial during pregnancy. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, and magnesium contributes to muscle and nerve function.

Protein Boost from Eggs and Dairy: Eggs and sour cream provide a moderate amount of protein, which helps with muscle repair, energy levels, and satiety. Including quality protein in side dishes like this one helps create more balanced meals, especially when served with other protein-rich mains.

Calcium-Rich Ingredients: Sour cream and milk both add calcium to the dish, supporting bone strength and cardiovascular function. This is a helpful bonus, particularly for those who might not get enough dairy in their regular diet.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you get started, it’s helpful to know exactly what you’re committing to. The beauty of this corn pudding recipe is that it doesn’t take long to prepare, and it yields enough to feed a hungry crowd. Here’s a breakdown of the timing, serving size, and nutrition details.

Total Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 to 50 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Servings:

• This recipe yields 8 generous servings (3/4 cup each), making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Nutrition Facts (Per 3/4 Cup Serving):

• Calories: 435
• Fat: 22g (of which 12g is saturated fat)
• Cholesterol: 112mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g

Ingredients List

Every great recipe starts with great ingredients, and this corn pudding is no exception. What makes this dish truly special is how it transforms simple, humble staples into a luscious, comforting side. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component matters.

• ½ Cup Butter, Softened
• ½ Cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs, Room Temperature
• 1 Cup Sour Cream
• 1 Package (8.5 Ounces) Cornbread or Corn Muffin Mix
• ½ Cup Milk (2% or Whole)
• 1 Can (15.25 Ounces) Whole Kernel Corn, Drained
• 1 Can (14.75 Ounces) Cream-Style Corn

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this creamy corn pudding to life. The process is simple and approachable, even for beginner cooks. Just follow these steps for a perfect result every time.

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This lower temperature ensures the custard cooks gently and evenly, creating that soft, spoonable texture we love.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or sturdy spoon to cream together the softened butter and sugar. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy. This step helps create a smooth, uniform batter.
3. Add the Eggs
   Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures they’re fully incorporated and helps maintain the batter’s creamy texture.
4. Mix in the Sour Cream
   Add the sour cream to the bowl and mix until the batter is smooth. The sour cream brings moisture and tang to balance the sweetness of the corn.
5. Add Cornbread Mix and Milk
   Gradually add the cornbread or muffin mix, alternating with the milk. Mix gently to combine, avoiding overmixing. You want a smooth, pourable batter.
6. Fold in the Corn
   Gently fold in the drained whole kernel corn and the can of creamed corn. These give the dish its signature sweet, buttery corn flavor and creamy texture.
7. Pour into Baking Dish
   Lightly grease a 13×9-inch or 3-quart baking dish. Pour the batter in and spread it evenly with a spatula. The mixture should be thick but easy to spread.
8. Bake the Pudding
   Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes. The top should be lightly golden, and the center should be just set with a slight jiggle. You can test doneness by inserting a knife in the center—it should come out mostly clean.
9. Cool Briefly Before Serving
   Let the pudding rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes it easier to scoop or slice.

How to Serve

Corn pudding is a flexible side dish that pairs well with almost anything. Whether you’re putting together a holiday meal or a simple family dinner, here are some great ways to serve it.

• Classic Holiday Spread: Serve alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or beef. It’s especially popular on Thanksgiving and Eid tables as a comforting, crowd-pleasing side.
• With Southern Favorites: Pair it with fried chicken, turkey wings, or barbecue beef ribs for a full-on Southern-inspired meal.
• Weeknight Dinner Companion: Dish it up next to grilled chicken, sautéed greens, or even a lentil stew for a satisfying everyday meal.

Pairing Suggestions

The mild, sweet-savory nature of corn pudding makes it the perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Here are some tasty pairing ideas to inspire your menu:

Main Dish Pairings:

• Grilled or Roasted Chicken: Especially seasoned with herbs or lemon for contrast.
• Beef or Lamb Roast: The pudding’s sweetness balances the richness of red meat.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers or Zucchini: For a wholesome vegetarian pairing.

Side Dish Combinations:

• Green Beans or Asparagus: Lightly sautéed or roasted vegetables balance the richness.
• Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, acidic salad helps cut through the buttery texture.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes or Mashed Potatoes: Double down on comfort food for a hearty spread.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Corn pudding is just as delicious the next day, making it a great dish for leftovers. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it properly.

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the pudding cool completely.
• Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• For individual portions, microwave on medium heat for 1–2 minutes, until warmed through.
• To reheat the full dish, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 20–25 minutes.

Freezing (Not Recommended):

• Due to the custard-like texture, freezing may affect the consistency.
• If necessary, wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Make-Ahead Tip:

• You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just stir before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are some of the most common pitfalls when making corn pudding and how to avoid them.

Overmixing the Batter:
Once the dry ingredients are added, mix only until combined. Overmixing can make the pudding dense and tough.

Using Cold Ingredients:
Cold eggs and dairy don’t incorporate well. Let them come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.

Forgetting to Grease the Dish:
Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. It also helps the pudding brown evenly around the edges.

Pro Tips

To take your corn pudding from good to unforgettable, keep these expert tips in mind.

Use High-Quality Cornbread Mix:
Choose a brand you like or even make your own. The flavor of the mix influences the entire dish.

Add Flavor Boosters:
A little smoked paprika, fresh herbs, or shredded cheese can deepen the flavor without overwhelming the classic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen or fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, both work well. Use about 1 ½ cups of corn in place of the canned whole kernel corn. If using fresh, make sure it’s cooked first.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use a gluten-free cornbread or muffin mix and double-check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the batter the night before, refrigerate it, and bake fresh the next day. Or bake it completely and reheat before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. You can reduce it to 1/4 cup for a more savory result or replace it with honey or maple syrup if preferred.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Corn pudding is more than just a side dish—it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a versatile recipe that fits any occasion. With its creamy texture, sweet corn flavor, and simple ingredients, it has a way of bringing people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or alongside a weeknight meal, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

If you’ve never made corn pudding before, now is the perfect time to try. You don’t need fancy tools or special skills—just a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a few pantry staples. Once you take that first warm bite, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic in so many homes.

I hope this guide has inspired you to add corn pudding to your recipe collection. If you try it out, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments or tag your photos with your favorite homemade twist. Let’s keep the love for this comforting dish going—one spoonful at a time.

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