Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium grind)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup canned creamed corn
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Substitution tips: If you don’t have creamed corn, you can pulse canned corn kernels in a blender with a bit of milk until smooth. For a dairy-free version, swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk and use a vegan cheese alternative.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter a 1.5-quart baking dish or cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal and sugar, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until thickened, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This step reminds me of watching Mama Lou’s patience as she stirred her spoonbread, never rushing the process.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the creamed corn, melted butter, salt, pepper, and baking powder. The mixture should be thick but still spoonable—like a cozy blanket ready to warm your soul.
- Transfer the cornmeal mixture to a large bowl and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes before whisking in the beaten eggs. This cooling step helps the eggs incorporate smoothly without scrambling.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese gently but thoroughly. I always think of Ouma’s wide grin when she sees the cheese melting into the batter—it’s like magic in the making.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the center of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will transport you straight to Mama Lou’s table.
- Allow the spoonbread to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This time lets the custard-like texture set and makes it easier to spoon onto plates without falling apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
