Holiday Sides

Classic Southern Corn Pudding Casserole

Velvety sweet corn custard with whole golden kernels baked to a delicate soufflé-like golden crust.

October 23, 2026 By Chef Clara 4.97 (148 votes)
Classic Southern Corn Pudding Casserole
The Quick Takeaway

In a nutshell: This authentic southern american classic southern corn pudding casserole comes together in just 55 mins using simple whole ingredients. The chef's secret is to Combining one can of whole kernel corn (drained) with one can of cream-style corn provides. Perfect for home cooks seeking a dependable, restaurant-quality finish with minimal effort.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cuisine Southern American
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This Classic Southern Corn Pudding is the beloved Thanksgiving side dish tradition! Sweet whole kernel corn and cream-style corn folded into a rich custard of eggs, melted butter, and sweet cream, baked until gently puffed with a caramelized golden top and silky melt-in-your-mouth interior.

Key Equipment

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Chef's Pro-Tips

  • The combo of two corns: Combining one can of whole kernel corn (drained) with one can of cream-style corn provides both sweet textural pops and silky custard creaminess.
  • Use cornstarch for a silky set: Whisking 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with a touch of flour ensures the custard sets into smooth, spoonable perfection without weeping moisture.
  • Bake until gently wobbling: Pull the pudding when the edges are set and golden brown, and the center has a gentle, tender wobble; it continues to firm up as it rests.

Ingredients
8 servings

  • 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel sweet corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn, do not drain
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream, adds luxurious richness
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar, enhances natural corn sweetness
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch, essential for custard structure
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, binds filling
  • ½ tsp baking powder, gives soufflé-like lift
  • ¾ tsp fine sea salt, balances sweetness
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper & pinch ground nutmeg, warm Southern spice
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Prep Oven and Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease an 8x8-inch or 2-quart ceramic baking dish with butter.

2

Whisk the Custard Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together beaten eggs, melted butter, sour cream (or heavy cream), and sugar until creamy and well combined.

3

Add Dry Ingredients

Whisk in cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until no lumps remain.

4

Fold in Corn and Bake

Fold in the drained whole kernel corn and the entire can of cream-style corn until thoroughly incorporated. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

5

Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until the top is deeply golden brown, edges are lightly caramelized, and the center is just barely set with a tender wobble. Let rest 10 minutes before scooping to serve!

Chef Clara's Kitchen Picks

Kitchen Essentials

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Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet, 2-Pack

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Amazon Basics Non-Stick Parchment Paper Roll

Non-stick paper for lining pans – easy release, easy cleanup.

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Woodenhouse Teak Wooden Spoons, 10-Pc

Teak spoons gentle on cookware and built for daily stirring.

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OXO Good Grips Silicone Whisk Set, 9" + 11"

Silicone whisks safe for nonstick pans, in two sizes.

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Ultra Cuisine Stainless Cooling Rack Set of 2

Stainless racks that fit half sheets – for cooling bakes and crisping roasts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! This scratch-made recipe uses real pantry staples (flour, cornstarch, sugar, butter, and cream) for superior flavor and texture compared to boxed mixes.

Yes! In place of canned whole corn, use 2 cups of fresh sweet corn kernels shaved off the cob, or thawed frozen corn.

Yes! Bake up to 1 day ahead, cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat covered with foil at 325°F for 20 minutes until warmed through.