5 Must-Try Corn Pudding Recipes for Your Next Feast

Corn pudding, a delightful dish known for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, has been a staple at gatherings for generations. Its comforting flavors make it an ideal side dish for any feast, from Thanksgiving dinners to summer cookouts. In this long-form blog, we're diving into five distinct corn pudding recipes that will elevate your next meal. Each one offers a unique twist on this classic comfort food, providing you with options that range from the traditional to the innovative. Whether you're a fan of the original, crave something with a bit more kick, or you're eager to explore dairy-free options, there's something here for everyone.

The Classic Corn Pudding

We begin our corn pudding journey with the recipe that has comforted many a soul at family dinners. This classic version combines sweet corn with a rich, custard-like base, embodying the perfect harmony of savory and sweet.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a blender or food processor, blend the corn, eggs, cream, milk, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, then drizzle the melted butter over the top.
  4. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.

🌟 Note: To achieve the best texture, avoid over-blending the corn mixture; it should have some texture from the kernels.

Spicy Jalapeño Corn Pudding

If you enjoy a bit of heat with your creamy dishes, this spicy twist on corn pudding is perfect for you. The jalapeños add a vibrant kick, making it a standout on your dinner table.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups corn kernels
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, and cream cheese until smooth.
  3. Stir in corn, jalapeños, cheese, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  4. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for about 50 minutes or until the pudding is set and lightly browned on top.

🍑 Note: For a milder flavor, you can use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh ones, which have a slightly sweet tang that complements the corn nicely.

Herb-Infused Corn Pudding with Basil and Thyme

Herbs can elevate the humble corn pudding to a gourmet level. This recipe features a delightful infusion of basil and thyme, giving your dish a fresh, aromatic touch.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, herbs, cheese, butter, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Add the corn kernels and mix well.
  4. Pour into a greased casserole dish and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is firm in the center.

By incorporating herbs, you not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and sophistication to your corn pudding.

Vegan Sweet Potato and Corn Pudding

Looking for a plant-based alternative? This vegan corn pudding recipe swaps out traditional ingredients for plant-based equivalents, retaining the comforting essence of the dish.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
  • 1 1/2 cups almond or oat milk
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a blender, combine sweet potato, milk, cornstarch, maple syrup, vinegar, salt, and turmeric. Blend until smooth.
  3. Add the corn and pulse until partially blended; you want some texture.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 40-50 minutes, until set and golden on top.

🌽 Note: Turmeric not only adds color but also a slight earthy flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.

Cheesy Bacon and Scallion Corn Pudding

To round off our selection, we’re going full-on indulgent with a cheese, bacon, and scallion corn pudding. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for those looking for something heartier.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups corn kernels
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green parts only)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix eggs, cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Fold in the corn, bacon, and scallions.
  4. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for approximately 50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.

This hearty version of corn pudding is sure to please with its savory, smoky flavors, adding a luxurious element to your meal.

To wrap up, we’ve explored five diverse corn pudding recipes, each bringing something unique to the table. From the timeless classic to innovative vegan variations, there’s a recipe for every palate. By experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, you can tailor corn pudding to fit any occasion or dietary preference. Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; feel free to tweak measurements, add your favorite herbs, or even incorporate different cheeses for personal touches.

Now, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about making corn pudding:

What makes corn pudding different from cornbread?

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Corn pudding is more custard-like with a creamy texture, while cornbread is a baked good, typically firmer with a bread-like consistency.

Can I use canned corn for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use canned corn. Drain it well before using, and consider reducing the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly to account for the extra moisture.

How do I keep corn pudding from separating?

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To prevent separation, blend the custard ingredients thoroughly and bake at a moderate temperature. Overmixing can also incorporate too much air, leading to cracks or a curdled appearance, so mix until just combined.