Kickin Cornbread Casserole Spicy Southern Comfort

Kickin Cornbread Casserole Southern Comfort Spicy Twist

By Lila BeaumontSeptember 23, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave something comforting but with a bit of a kick? This cornbread casserole is just the ticket. It's got that classic Southern taste, but with a spicy twist.

Honestly, it's my new go-to!

Brief Overview

This cornbread casserole , a Southern staple, is total comfort food. It is super easy to make, ready in under an hour.

This recipe makes about 8 servings, perfect for a family meal.

Main Benefits

This Jiffy cornbread casserole is packed with cheesy goodness and a hint of spice. It's a perfect side dish for any BBQ or chili night.

What makes it special? The ease of preparation and taste!

Get Your Aprons On!

Okay, let's whip up a batch of good enough to impress even Paul Hollywood!

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you grab:

One box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
Some cream style corn
An egg
Buttermilk
Melted butter
Shredded cheddar
A jalapeño

Spice It Up!

This recipe is very easy. It is a southern comfort food that everyone will love. If you can't find Jiffy cornbread casserole , use your favourite cornbread casserole variations .

Don't over mix the batter. Easy casserole recipes are perfect for any weeknight. My favorite is cheddar jalapeño cornbread . It's really simple to prepare a quick cornbread side dish.

You can also add it to Cornbread casserole with chili. If you prefer sweet version, just add a little bit of sugar.

Why This Recipe Rocks

I grew up eating buttermilk cornbread casserole . It's like a warm hug from the inside out. Plus, it is easy to customize to your taste.

So, grab those ingredients. Let's make some magic.

Ingredients & Equipment for Kickin' Cornbread Casserole

Alright, let's whip up a batch of this Kickin' Cornbread Casserole , it's proper tasty. It is good enough to impress even Paul Hollywood.

This recipe takes about 50- 55 minutes total. That includes 15 minutes of prep and 35- 40 minutes baking time.

Main Ingredients for Our Southern Comfort Food

Here's what you'll need to make this amazing dish. I love how easy it is to throw together. Remember to check quantities!

Dry Ingredients:
- 1 box ( 8.5 oz / 240g ) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix. Don't skimp.
- 1/4 cup ( 30g ) all-purpose flour. Plain flour is perfect.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder. Makes it nice and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt. Enhances the sweet and savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. A little kick.
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg. Free range if you can.
- 1 cup ( 240ml ) buttermilk. Makes it extra tangy.
- 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) melted unsalted butter. Adds richness.
- 1 can ( 14.75 oz / 420g ) cream style corn, undrained. The secret to creaminess!
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup ( 115g ) shredded cheddar cheese, divided. (Reserve 1/2 cup for topping). Use a good quality cheddar.
- 1/4 cup (about 1 small) finely diced jalapeño pepper, seeded. (adjust to taste). Fresh is best!
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish). Gives it a fancy touch.

I am trying to make this a dish with chili . You know?

Seasoning Notes

Essential spice combinations are simple. Salt and pepper are key. Cheddar jalapeño cornbread is delicious! A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.

You can substitute with something you have! If you don't have buttermilk, use milk with lemon juice.

Equipment Needed

For this easy casserole recipes , you really don't need fancy stuff. Just the essentials will do.

Essential Tools:
- 9x13 inch baking dish ( 23x33cm ). Glass or ceramic works great.
- Large mixing bowl. Stainless steel is my favorite.
- Whisk. Get rid of those lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements matter!
Common Household Alternatives: If you don't have a whisk, use a fork. Use any dish! This cornbread casserole will still taste amazing.

Kickin' Cornbread Casserole: A Hug in a Dish

Okay, let's whip up a batch of this Kickin' Cornbread Casserole , good enough to impress even Paul Hollywood! Honestly, this recipe is so easy, it's almost embarrassing.

I adapted it from my grandma's recipe, but with a little twist to make it extra special. A proper Southern comfort food dish with a spicy twist .

This cornbread casserole ain't just food, it's a warm hug on a plate. Perfect with chili or even on its own!

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized!

First things first. A good mise en place is key! Gather all your ingredients. Chop your jalapeño. Grate that cheddar.

For time saving, measure out your dry ingredients in advance. I've been known to almost set the kitchen on fire, Preheat the oven to 375° F ( 190° C) before you start mixing.

step-by-step: From Bowl to Oven

Preheat and grease: Preheat your oven and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Trust me on the greasing part .
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the Jiffy cornbread casserole mix, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Get those lumps out!
Add wet ingredients: Add the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and cream style corn casserole . Don't overmix!
Fold in the good stuff: Gently fold in half of the cheddar and the jalapeño. Not too much stirring, Okay?
Pour and bake: Pour the batter into your prepared dish. Smooth it out evenly.
Cheese, please: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Golden brown, here we come!
Bake: Bake for 35- 40 minutes , until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Critical Temperature: 190° F ( 88° C) internal temperature.

Pro Tips for a Showstopper

Want to take your cornbread casserole variations to the next level? Here's the secret! Don't overmix the batter. Seriously. It makes it tough .

And try adding a tablespoon of honey if you fancy a sweet cornbread casserole

Common mistake alert! Forgetting the cheese on top. Don't do it! . You can also make this dish a day ahead. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

So there you have it, my version of Kickin' Cornbread Casserole ! It's easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit. Now get baking!

Recipe Notes That'll Make Your Cornbread Casserole Sing!

Okay, let's whip up a batch of recipe notes good enough to impress even Paul Hollywood! This cornbread casserole is already a winner, but these tips? They'll take it to the next level.

Honestly, these are the secrets I use every time I bake it!

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Presentation matters, right? I love serving this Southern comfort food style straight from the baking dish! But if you're feeling fancy, slice a square and pop it on a plate.

Top it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives.

For sides? This cornbread casserole goes amazing with chili. Seriously, the creamy, cheesy cornbread cools down the spice. Also, it is great alongside BBQ ribs or pulled pork.

A crisp green salad adds a nice contrast too. As for drinks, sweet tea or even a cold beer works a treat.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Jiffy cornbread casserole keeps well.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yep, you can freeze it! Wrap individual slices tightly in cling film, then pop them in a freezer bag. It will last for about 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating: Warm it up in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 10- 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but it might get a little less crispy.

Variations: Your Cornbread, Your Way

Want to put your own spin on this easy casserole recipe ? Go for it!

dairy-free Delight: Swap the buttermilk for almond milk and use a dairy-free cheddar. No one will know the difference!
Cheddar jalapeño cornbread: For a seasonal twist, add some roasted butternut squash in the fall, or some fresh herbs like thyme in the spring.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's be real. This isn't a salad, but it's still got some good stuff going on. Each serving of this cornbread casserole with chili contains approximately 280 calories, 8g of protein, and 2g of fiber.

It is an estimate! It’s a good source of comfort and happiness. So, enjoy it in moderation!

Alright, now you're armed with all the info you need to make the best spicy cornbread casserole ever. Get baking and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cornbread casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the cornbread casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's very cold going into the oven, but it is not a problem.

My cornbread casserole turned out too dry. What went wrong?

A dry cornbread casserole is often a sign of overbaking. Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Also, make sure you're using the correct amount of wet ingredients; using too little buttermilk, for example, can lead to a drier result.

If you're making a substitution such as egg replacement, ensure you're not substituting it with a drier replacement.

How do I store leftover cornbread casserole? Will it keep well?

Leftover cornbread casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave, oven, or even a skillet until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and then in a freezer bag.

Frozen cornbread casserole will last for up to 2 months.

I'm not a fan of jalapeños. What else can I add to this Kickin' Cornbread Casserole for some extra flavor?

No problem! You can easily customize this recipe. Try adding roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness or some chopped green chilies for a milder kick. If you're feeling adventurous, a little crumbled cooked bacon or some sautéed onions and garlic can also add a savory depth of flavor that would give even the "Hairy Bikers" something to rave about!

Can I make this recipe sweeter? I love sweet cornbread.

Of course! If you prefer a sweeter cornbread casserole, simply add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar or honey to the batter. You could also use a sweeter variety of corn, like white corn, to enhance the flavor. A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a lovely warmth to the overall taste.

What are some good main dishes to serve with this cornbread casserole?

This cornbread casserole is super versatile! It's fantastic with a hearty bowl of chili or BBQ ribs. For a comforting Southern meal, pair it with fried chicken or pulled pork. It's also a great side dish for pot roasts or even alongside a simple salad for a lighter meal.

It's a true "Full Monty" of side dishes, if you ask me!