Classic Southern Corn Spoon Bread
Indulge in the comforting taste of Classic Southern Corn Spoon Bread, a warm and creamy dish that evokes the essence of Southern hospitality. This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of cornmeal with the rich creaminess of milk and the heartiness of frozen corn, creating a texture that is both soft and fluffy. Perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a stand-alone treat, this spoon bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it fresh from the oven for a delectable experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern cooking.
4
Servings
125
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup (scooped and leveled)
milk
2 cups (divided)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted, melted)
salt
3/4 teaspoon
crushed red pepper flakes
1 dash
frozen corn
1 cup (well drained)
eggs
2 (lightly beaten)
fresh ground white pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, spoon the cornmeal and gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until completely blended.
2
Add the remaining 1 cup of milk to the mixture and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickens slightly, approximately 5 minutes.
3
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the melted butter, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and drained frozen corn. Season with fresh ground white pepper to taste.
4
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before gently folding in the beaten eggs until well combined.
5
Transfer the mixture into a greased 1-quart glass baking dish and smooth the top.
6
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the spoon bread is firm, raised, and lightly golden brown on top.
7
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving, as the spoon bread may deflate if not served immediately.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
13g
Carbs
3.75g
Protein
1g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Southern Corn Spoon Bread?
It is a warm, creamy, and fluffy dish that combines cornmeal, milk, and frozen corn to create a texture similar to a savory custard or a soft souffle.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What is the calorie count for a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 125 calories.
What type of cornmeal is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of yellow cornmeal, which should be scooped and leveled for accuracy.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh corn for the 1 cup of frozen corn, provided it is well-drained.
How should the milk be added to the mixture?
The 2 cups of milk should be divided; whisk 1 cup into the cornmeal first, then add the remaining cup while cooking over medium heat.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long does the spoon bread need to bake?
The dish typically takes between 50 and 60 minutes to bake.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Classic Southern Corn Spoon Bread is tagged as a vegetarian dish.
What size baking dish is required?
You should use a greased 1-quart glass baking dish.
Why is the dish called spoon bread?
It is named for its soft, moist consistency that requires it to be served and eaten with a spoon rather than held like traditional cornbread.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of unsalted, melted butter.
How do I know when the spoon bread is finished cooking?
The spoon bread is done when it is firm, has raised significantly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
What are the nutritional macros for this recipe?
Per serving, it contains 6g of fat, 13g of carbohydrates, and 3.75g of protein.
Can I add more spice to this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more than a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or extra fresh ground white pepper.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, the instructions specify transferring the mixture into a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
What is the best way to serve spoon bread?
It is best served fresh and warm from the oven, as it may deflate as it cools.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While you can prep the ingredients, the finished dish is best served immediately after baking to maintain its height and texture.
What is the expected texture of this spoon bread?
The texture should be soft, fluffy, and creamy on the inside with a slightly firm top.
How should the eggs be prepared?
Two eggs should be lightly beaten and then gently folded into the slightly cooled cornmeal mixture.
What role does the milk play in the recipe?
The milk is cooked with the cornmeal to create a thickened, smooth base that provides the dish its creamy interior.
Can I substitute white pepper with black pepper?
Yes, if you do not have fresh ground white pepper, black pepper can be used, though it will change the appearance slightly.
How can I prevent the spoon bread from deflating?
Allow it to cool only slightly and serve it immediately, as the aerated structure naturally settles over time.
Does this recipe provide any dietary fiber?
Yes, each serving provides approximately 1 gram of fiber.
What is the total fat content per serving?
There are 6 grams of fat in each serving.
Under what category does this recipe fall?
This recipe is categorized under Quick Breads.
Is it important to level the cornmeal?
Yes, scooping and leveling ensures the correct ratio of dry to wet ingredients for the perfect consistency.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe requires 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Are there red pepper flakes in this dish?
Yes, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes is included for a subtle hint of heat.
How many distinct ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients: yellow cornmeal, milk, butter, salt, red pepper flakes, frozen corn, eggs, and white pepper.