Description

A moist, fluffy, and savory cornbread casserole packed with sausage, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños. This easy side dish offers crispy edges and a soft, custardy center, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium-grind)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
1/2 lb ground sausage or bacon, cooked and drained
1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
2 stalks green onions, chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook ground sausage or bacon in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crispy. Drain excess grease. Dice jalapeño and chop green onions. If using fresh corn, cut from cob; if frozen, thaw and drain well.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in cooked meat, cheddar cheese, corn kernels, jalapeño, and green onions.
Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm.

Notes

Ensure frozen corn is thoroughly drained to prevent sogginess. Let eggs and dairy come to room temperature for better emulsion. Toasting cornmeal slightly can enhance flavor. For extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end. Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 450
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 2
Protein: 12

Keywords: cornbread casserole, cowboy cornbread, easy side dish, holiday recipes, comfort food, cheesy cornbread, sausage casserole