Southern Cheesy Corn Casserole – The Best Jiffy Cornbread Side Dish Ever

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Southern Cheesy Corn Casserole – The Best Jiffy Cornbread Side Dish Ever

If there’s one dish that perfectly captures the heart of Southern comfort, it’s a rich and warm corn casserole. This is not your average corn pudding—this version is cheesy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Made with Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, this easy-to-make casserole combines pantry staples with fresh, bold ingredients for a perfectly fluffy and golden side dish that feels just as good as a main course.

Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, BBQs, or holiday feasts, this Southern-style cornbread casserole is a dish that pleases every palate. With the perfect balance of sweet corn, creamy texture, and a subtle kick from peppers, this is a guaranteed crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Corn Casserole

  • 🧀 Loaded with Cheese – Every bite is melty, gooey, and irresistibly cheesy.
  • 🌽 Double Corn Goodness – Uses both whole kernel and cream-style corn for maximum flavor and texture.
  • 🔥 Customizable Heat – Add green chiles or jalapeños to spice it up.
  • 🍽️ Versatile Side or Main Dish – Hearty enough to stand alone, perfect alongside any main.
  • 🕒 Quick Prep Time – Just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Essential Ingredients

This Southern cheesy corn casserole is made with just a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.

You’ll Need:

  • 1 box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (or a mix)
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional, but highly recommended for extra moisture)
  • 1 finely chopped green bell pepper or a few chopped jalapeños
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Southern Corn Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish, depending on how thick you want your casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the milk and sour cream.
  • Add in the whole kernel corn and cream-style corn, mixing well to combine.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

  • Stir in the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, ensuring there are no lumps.
  • Add the cheese, chopped peppers or jalapeños, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Mix until everything is well incorporated. The batter will be thick and slightly chunky.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  • Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
  • If you like a cheesier top, sprinkle additional shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cornbread Casserole

  • Want it creamier? Add a few extra tablespoons of sour cream or even a splash of heavy cream.
  • Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne, some crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
  • Add protein like cooked crumbled bacon, sausage, or shredded chicken to turn this side dish into a full meal.
  • Use fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions to finish the dish and add a burst of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Southern cheesy corn casserole pairs perfectly with:

  • BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken
  • Fried chicken and collard greens
  • Holiday meats like turkey or glazed ham
  • Classic Southern sides like baked beans, green beans, or coleslaw

It’s the kind of dish that fits in just as beautifully at Thanksgiving dinner as it does at a summer cookout.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Make ahead: You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving.
  • Storing leftovers: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave or cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F until hot throughout.
  • Freezing: Bake first, then cool and wrap tightly before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Why This Corn Casserole Will Become a Family Staple

This cheesy corn casserole is everything you want in a side dish—quick, satisfying, flavorful, and foolproof. Whether you’re cooking for your kids on a weeknight or contributing to a big family potluck, this dish gets rave reviews every time. And thanks to Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, it’s effortless enough to whip up even on the busiest days.

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