Loaded Cornbread Casserole – Southern Comfort in Every Bite

Loaded cornbread casserole is the kind of dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of Southern flavor—combining moist cornbread with savory ground beef, corn, and melted cheese in every bite. Think of it as the lovechild of a hearty casserole and a classic skillet cornbread, bursting with flavor and texture. I first made this recipe for a Sunday family dinner, and it was an instant hit—comforting, easy, and impossible to resist. I once added diced jalapeños for a little heat, and it gave the dish a nice Southern kick! Whether you serve it as a main course or a side at a potluck, this loaded cornbread casserole embodies true home-style comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaded cornbread casserole is everything you love about Southern cooking—fluffy, buttery cornbread layered with seasoned beef, sweet corn, and gooey cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and simple to make using pantry staples. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or gatherings, this dish feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully. It’s versatile too—you can make it spicier, meatier, or even vegetarian. Each forkful is a little bit sweet, a little bit savory, and totally comforting.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef – Adds heartiness and rich flavor to the casserole base.

Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.

Garlic – Enhances the savory flavor and complements the cornbread perfectly.

Corn kernels – Adds sweetness and texture; you can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn.

Creamed corn – Keeps the casserole moist and gives it a creamy consistency.

Jiffy cornbread mix – The foundation of the dish—soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet.

Eggs – Help bind the cornbread mixture for the perfect texture.

Milk or buttermilk – Adds richness and moisture to the batter.

Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully throughout the casserole for creamy, cheesy goodness.

Butter – Adds richness and helps create a golden crust.

Salt, pepper, and paprika – Simple seasonings that elevate the overall flavor.

Optional toppings – Jalapeños, green onions, or sour cream for serving.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the corn kernels and remove from heat.

In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread mixture by combining the cornbread mix, creamed corn, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir until just combined—do not overmix.

Pour half of the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Spoon the beef mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the remaining cornbread batter over the top and smooth it out. Sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with green onions, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftover cornbread casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Tex-Mex Version – Add black beans, taco seasoning, and jalapeños for a bold, spicy twist.

BBQ Cornbread Casserole – Mix barbecue sauce into the beef layer and top with extra cheese.

Vegetarian Option – Skip the beef and use sautéed mushrooms, peppers, and beans instead.

Bacon Lover’s Version – Add crispy bacon bits to the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.

Cheesy Deluxe – Use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar for an extra gooey texture.

Sweet Corn Casserole – Skip the beef and double the corn for a sweeter, side-dish version.

Jalapeño Popper Style – Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese for a creamy, spicy variation.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works just as well for a lighter option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake before serving.

Can I use homemade cornbread batter?

Yes, any cornbread recipe will work—just ensure it’s about the same volume as the boxed mix.

What kind of cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage for extra heat.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese, butter, and milk alternatives.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely—try bell peppers, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for more texture.

How can I keep it moist?

Don’t overbake, and include the creamed corn—it ensures perfect moisture.

Can I serve it as a side dish?

Yes! It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, chili, or roasted chicken.

Conclusion

Loaded cornbread casserole is the definition of Southern comfort—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With its layers of savory beef, sweet corn, and fluffy cornbread, this dish brings warmth to every bite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a hearty side, this casserole captures the best of home-cooked Southern goodness. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular part of your comfort food lineup.