Name: Delicious Corn Pudding: A Family Comfort Food Classic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (Whisk until well combined for a smooth texture.); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (Can use vegetable oil for a lighter option.); 1/4 cup Sugar (Reduce to 1 tablespoon for a less sweet version or use honey.); 1 cup Milk (Any non-dairy milk can work as a replacement.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Essential for maintaining structure without gluten.); 1 can Whole-Kernel Corn (Fresh or frozen corn can be used instead.); 1 can Cream-Style Corn (Gives the pudding its characteristic creaminess.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Use ½ to 1 cup for a cheesy variation.); 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to taste for a spicier kick.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of corn wafting through the air transported me back to my grandmother’s home, where her comforting Corn Pudding was the star of every family gathering. This dish, with its rich custardy texture and hints of sweetness, isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace that brings loved ones together. What I adore about this Southern classic is not just its nostalgic flavor, but also its quick prep time and adaptability—perfect for busy weeknights or festive celebrations alike. Whether you’re looking to impress at a holiday feast or simply craving a cozy meal, Grandmother’s Corn Pudding is your go-to comfort food. Are you ready to bring a taste of tradition to your table?

Why Is Corn Pudding So Special?

Comforting, this dish wraps you in nostalgia, making every bite a warm reminiscence of family gatherings. Versatile, it easily adapts to your taste—add cheese for creaminess or spice it up with cayenne. Quick prep saves time on busy weekdays while ensuring a special touch for festive occasions. Crowd-pleaser, it pairs exquisitely with roasted meats or stands out solo at a potluck. And if you love creative twists, don’t miss our Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread as a sidekick!

Corn Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding Base

Eggs – Provide structure and richness to the pudding. Note: Whisk until well combined for a smooth texture.
Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness. Substitution: Can use vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Sugar – Offers sweetness and balances the savory flavors. Substitution: Reduce to 1 tablespoon for a less sweet version or use a natural sweetener like honey.
Milk – Contributes to the custardy consistency. Substitution: Any non-dairy milk can work as a replacement.
Cornstarch – Ensures gluten-free texture and aids in thickening. Note: Essential for maintaining structure without gluten.

For the Corn Mixture

Whole-Kernel Corn – Provides texture and sweetness. Substitution: Fresh or frozen corn can be used instead of canned.
Cream-Style Corn – Adds moisture and enhances corn flavor. Note: Gives the pudding its characteristic creaminess.

Optional Add-Ins

Cheddar Cheese – Adds flavor and creaminess. Note: Use ½ to 1 cup for a cheesy variation.
Cayenne Pepper – Provides heat and depth of flavor. Note: Adjust to taste for a spicier kick.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, take a 2-quart casserole dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure that your Corn Pudding releases easily once it’s baked and will develop a beautiful, golden crust on the outside.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, crack open the eggs and whisk them together until well combined and slightly frothy. This should take about a minute. The eggs provide the essential structure to the Corn Pudding, so make sure they’re thoroughly mixed to achieve a smooth custard-like base.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
To the bowl with the eggs, add the melted butter, sugar, milk, and cornstarch. Whisk the mixture until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps, which will keep your Corn Pudding light and fluffy. Take your time to blend the ingredients well, ensuring a creamy texture for your delightful dish.

Step 4: Fold in the Corn
Once your mixture is smooth, gently fold in both types of corn: the whole-kernel corn and cream-style corn. Use a spatula to carefully combine the corn into the mixture, ensuring even distribution, which is key to enhancing the flavor and texture of your Corn Pudding.

Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the well-blended corn mixture carefully into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly, allowing it to bake uniformly. The creamy mixture will soon transform into a comforting pudding as it bakes, so make sure it is evenly distributed in the dish.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven and bake the Corn Pudding for about 1 hour. Keep an eye on it as it approaches the end of the baking time; you’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly set.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Corn Pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows it to set further, enhancing its creamy texture. As it cools slightly, the warm aroma will envelop your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table for a serving of this delightful comfort food.

Tips for the Best Corn Pudding

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a creamy and smooth Corn Pudding texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pudding toward the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking. The perfect consistency is golden brown with a just-set center.
Fresh Corn Adjustments: If using fresh or frozen corn, you might need to extend the baking time slightly—check that the center is firmly set before removing from the oven.
Add Flavor Wisely: Experiment with savory add-ins like sautéed onions or spices to customize your Corn Pudding while being mindful not to overpower the classic taste.
Cheesy Delight: If adding cheese, use mild Cheddar for a creamy touch; just remember not to overdo it to maintain the pudding’s fluffy nature.

Storage Tips for Corn Pudding

Refrigerator: Store leftover Corn Pudding in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and delicious for your next craving.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes before enjoying.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the Corn Pudding mixture a day in advance, store in the fridge, and bake just before serving for a fresh, home-cooked taste.
Reheating: For best results, cover with foil when reheating to retain moisture, ensuring that each bite is as comforting as the first.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Corn Puddings are perfect for meal prep and can simplify your busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This helps the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining that creamy texture when baked. Another option is to assemble the pudding and bake it, then cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting taste that feels like a warm hug with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Grandmother’s Corn Pudding

As the centerpiece of your meal, this cozy dish pairs perfectly with a range of delightful sides and beverages that complement its comforting flavors.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, its crisp skin contrasts beautifully with the creamy corn pudding.
Grilled Pork Chops: The smoky essence enhances the sweetness of the pudding, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh and crunchy, they offer a refreshing bite that brightens the rich pudding experience.
Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy, this classic salad adds brightness to the meal, enhancing the comforting texture of the corn pudding.
Cornbread: For the ultimate Southern experience, serve alongside a slice of cornbread to amplify the corniness and add a delightful crumbly texture.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness of the pudding, making it a refreshing contrast on your plate.
Sweet Tea: No Southern meal is complete without this classic beverage. Its sweetness complements the pudding perfectly and ties the meal together.
Apple Pie: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic dessert, providing a seasonal touch and balancing the savory flavors of the meal.

Corn Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Corn Pudding your own with these delightful twists and substitutions that cater to every palate!

Cheesy Delight: Add ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, creamy version. The cheese melts beautifully, creating pockets of flavor throughout.
Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. These herbs add a lovely earthiness, brightening up the overall flavor profile.
Savory Veggies: Incorporate sautéed onions or bell peppers for an extra savory kick. These veggies bring a crunchy texture and depth, making each bite exciting and satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Toss in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat. Adjust based on your heat preference, and prepare for a zesty surprise that tingles the taste buds!
Sweet Nutty Twist: Include a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. The nuts introduce a rich, buttery flavor that complements the creamy pudding exquisitely.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca flour to keep it gluten-free and achieve the same luscious texture. Adjusting won’t compromise the delicious outcome!
Creamy Non-Dairy: Substitute almond, soy, or oat milk for regular milk to make it dairy-free. These options keep the pudding creamy while catering to lactose intolerance or vegan diets.

If you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, check out our Banana Pudding Parfait for a delightful dessert or pair this side dish with our savory Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread for a meal that’s sure to impress!

Grandmother’s Corn Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the best Corn Pudding?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using a mix of both whole-kernel corn and cream-style corn. Fresh or frozen corn can be great alternatives if you prefer a more natural taste. Just keep in mind that using frozen corn may require a slight increase in baking time, so ensure the pudding is fully set before serving.

How should I store leftovers of Corn Pudding?
The best way to store leftover Corn Pudding is in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Corn Pudding?
Certainly! To freeze Corn Pudding, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then wrap it again in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

What should I do if my Corn Pudding is too dense?
If your Corn Pudding turns out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the ingredients. To avoid this, gently fold in the corn after mixing the wet and dry ingredients, being careful not to overwork the batter. Also, check that your eggs are well-whisked for maximum fluffiness!

Is Corn Pudding safe for those with gluten allergies?
Yes! Corn Pudding is naturally gluten-free as it’s primarily made with corn and cornstarch instead of wheat flour. Just be sure to double-check any added ingredients, such as specific cheeses or sauces, to ensure they are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make Corn Pudding in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to bake it right before serving; this way, you’ll enjoy the freshness and warmth that makes this dish so comforting.