Cheesy Jiffy Cornbread Casserole
Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Cheesy Jiffy Cornbread Casserole is just what you need! It’s soft, moist, and bursting with cheesy goodness, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it with chili, BBQ, or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make using Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix and a few pantry staples. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or jalapeños (optional, for a kick)
Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the Corn & Jiffy Mix: Stir in the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, and Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix!).
- Fold in the Cheese: Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and any optional mix-ins like jalapeños or green onions.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Add Toppings: If using mozzarella and parmesan, sprinkle them on top in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
- Cool & Serve: Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!
Cooking Methods
- Oven-Baked: This is the best method for an evenly cooked, golden-brown casserole.
- Slow Cooker: You can make this in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours.
- Air Fryer: For a small batch, cook at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes in an air fryer-safe dish.
History of Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread has deep roots in Southern and Native American cuisine. It was originally made with ground cornmeal and baked over open flames. Over time, variations like corn pudding and corn casserole emerged, incorporating dairy products and sweeteners. The Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, introduced in the 1930s, revolutionized homemade cornbread, making it easier and fluffier. Today, this cheesy Jiffy corn casserole is a popular dish at Thanksgiving, BBQs, and potlucks across the U.S.
Benefits of This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Made with a Jiffy mix, this dish saves time without sacrificing taste.
- Comforting & Delicious: The combination of corn, cheese, and butter creates a rich, creamy texture.
- Versatile: Add bacon, jalapeños, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
This Cheesy Jiffy Cornbread Casserole isn’t just delicious—it also offers several benefits, making it a fantastic addition to your meal. Here’s why you’ll love it:
1. Quick & Easy to Make
- Uses Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, which simplifies the process.
- Requires minimal prep time—just mix, pour, and bake!
- Perfect for beginners and busy cooks.
2. Comforting & Satisfying
- The rich, creamy texture combined with melted cheese makes this dish pure comfort food.
- Ideal for cold weather, family dinners, and holiday gatherings.
3. Nutritious Ingredients
- Corn is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support digestion and overall health.
- Eggs provide protein to help keep you full longer.
- Cheese adds calcium and protein, important for bone health.
4. Customizable & Versatile
- Can be made gluten-free using a gluten-free cornbread mix.
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for more nutrients.
- Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or chili flakes.
- Turn it into a main dish by adding bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.
5. Great for Any Occasion
- Works as a side dish for BBQs, potlucks, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
- Pairs well with soups, stews, grilled meats, or even as a snack.
- Easy to make ahead and reheat, making it perfect for meal prep.
6. Budget-Friendly
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Leftovers can be reheated or repurposed into other meals.
7. Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved
- The slightly sweet, cheesy taste is a hit with both kids and adults.
- A great way to introduce vegetables (if you mix in corn, peppers, or spinach) without complaints!
Formation & Texture
This casserole is a cross between cornbread and a soufflé—moist, fluffy, and slightly creamy inside, with a cheesy, golden-brown crust on top.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Based on 8 servings, approximate values)
- Calories: ~320
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
(Based on 8 servings, approximate values per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Calcium: ~150mg (from cheese)
- Iron: ~1.2mg
How It Supports Your Health
Provides Energy – The carbs from corn and Jiffy mix give you a steady energy boost.
Rich in Protein – Cheese and eggs help with muscle maintenance and satiety.
Good for Bone Health – Cheese and eggs provide calcium and vitamin D.
Supports Digestion – Corn contains fiber, which aids gut health.
Who Loves This Dish?
- Cheese Lovers: That melty, gooey cheese makes it irresistible!
- Cornbread Fans: If you love classic cornbread, this is a richer, softer version.
- Busy Cooks: Great for beginners and anyone short on time.
- Potluck Pros: Always a hit at family gatherings and holiday feasts!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Jiffy Cornbread Casserole is a must-try! It’s easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you serve it alongside BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or chili, it’s bound to steal the show. Try it once, and it might just become a family tradition.
So, what are you waiting for? Get that Jiffy mix out and start baking!