Southern Corn Pudding Recipe

Sweet, creamy, and baked to golden perfection, this Southern Corn Pudding recipe is a classic comfort side dish for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Southern Corn Pudding plays a crucial part in achieving the decadent, slightly sweet flavor and that signature custardy texture. Together, these staples transform into a crowd-pleasing side that feels both homemade and a little bit special.

• Whole kernel corn: Adds a juicy pop of sweetness and hearty texture throughout the pudding.
• Creamed corn: Brings creaminess and a sweet corn flavor that makes every bite feel rich.
• Large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together into a tender, scoopable pudding.
• Sour cream: Balances the sweetness with a gentle tang and creates a luxurious, moist consistency.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Infuses the base with richness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Corn muffin mix: The not-so-secret shortcut that gives the pudding its fluffy rise and classic Southern taste.
• Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the corn’s natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle, savory warmth that rounds out the sweetness.

How to Make Southern Corn Pudding

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking or casserole dish; this way, your Southern Corn Pudding will release effortlessly and come out looking golden and inviting.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, crack in those eggs and add the sour cream. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, creamy base—this ensures every bite is custardy and rich. The eggs do double duty, holding everything together while helping your pudding bake up soft and luscious.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

Pour in the melted butter, then add both the whole kernel corn and creamed corn. Stir in the corn muffin mix, salt, and black pepper until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should look thick and hearty, studded with kernels and flecks of seasoning, promising big flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Pour and Smooth

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to gently smooth out the top, so the pudding bakes up with a gorgeous, even golden crown.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the center is set—just give it a gentle shake to check. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so it firms up into perfect, creamy, corn-studded squares.

How to Serve Southern Corn Pudding

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives, chopped parsley, or even a dusting of smoked paprika brightens Southern Corn Pudding and adds a little pop of color. For extra indulgence, try a pat of butter melting over the hot pudding just before serving—that buttery aroma is downright irresistible.

Side Dishes

This pudding plays beautifully with classic Southern sides like collard greens, green beans, or a zesty slaw. It’s also the perfect companion for roast chicken, ham, or barbecue—its sweetness balances hearty main courses while adding cozy nostalgia to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your Southern Corn Pudding the star of the show, scoop it into individual ramekins for elegant dinners, or add a little shredded cheddar on top before baking for a cheesy twist. For a potluck, bake it in a larger casserole and let everyone dig in family-style—no fancy utensils required!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Southern Corn Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen over time, making it just as tasty (if not better!) as when it was freshly baked.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Southern Corn Pudding! Once cooled, wrap individual pieces or the whole dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pudding in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through—about 20 minutes should do the trick. For quick leftovers, a few minutes in the microwave works, though the oven will best restore that golden top.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Substitute the canned whole kernel corn for thawed frozen or lightly cooked fresh corn for a slightly more rustic texture. Still include the creamed corn for the signature creamy consistency Southern Corn Pudding requires.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble Southern Corn Pudding a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. On the day you plan to serve, just bake as directed—perfect for holiday planning or busy families.

What if I don’t have corn muffin mix?

No worries—if you can’t find boxed corn muffin mix, make a quick substitute by combining 2/3 cup flour, 1/2 cup cornmeal, 1/3 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This DIY blend will give you the same delicious result!

Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?

Yes, just double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. Keep an eye on the bake time, as it may need a few extra minutes to set in the center.

How can I make the pudding less sweet?

If you prefer a more savory Southern Corn Pudding, you can reduce the corn muffin mix by a couple of tablespoons or add a bit more salt and pepper. Some cooks also add a pinch of cayenne or chopped green chiles for a subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something truly comforting, Southern Corn Pudding is an absolute must-try. It’s the side dish that always earns recipe requests, turning even an ordinary meal into a celebration. Gather your loved ones and let this warm, golden pudding make your table a little happier tonight!

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