Easy Spoon Bread Recipe

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Cook Time: 45 minutes

This savory cornmeal casserole is a delicious side dish or main course option that combines the creamy texture of cornmeal with the sweet pop of corn and fresh green onions. It's easy to prepare and perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup frozen whole-kernel corn
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions, plus more for garnish
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• Sour cream, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, cornmeal, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Continue stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens and reaches the consistency of mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the frozen corn, chopped green onions, and baking powder. Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix everything until well incorporated.

Step 4: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until the casserole is fully risen and set in the center.

Step 6: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the casserole warm with a dollop of sour cream and additional green onions on top for garnish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	225
Total Fat	10g (13%)
Saturated Fat	5g (26%)
Cholesterol	84mg (28%)
Sodium	504mg (22%)
Total Carbohydrates	27g (10%)
Dietary Fiber	2g (8%)
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	8g (16%)
Vitamin C	3mg (3%)
Calcium	227mg (17%)
Iron	1mg (8%)
Potassium	300mg (6%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Spoon Bread

Spoon bread is a classic Southern dish with roots tracing back to Native American corn-based recipes. Early settlers in the American South adapted these techniques, combining ground cornmeal with milk and eggs to create a soft, pudding-like bread that could be eaten with a spoonhence the name. Unlike traditional cornbread, which is baked to a firm texture, spoon bread occupies a middle ground between a souffl and a corn pudding, offering a creamy, airy consistency.

Regional Characteristics

While spoon bread is enjoyed throughout the Southern United States, there are notable regional variations. In the Carolinas, it often includes a touch of sugar and butter, resulting in a sweeter, richer dish. In Tennessee and Kentucky, it is common to incorporate sharp cheddar cheese for added depth. Cornmeal quality and preparation style also vary; some regions prefer stone-ground cornmeal for a coarser texture, while others favor finely ground cornmeal for a smoother consistency.

Differences from Similar Dishes

At first glance, spoon bread may resemble corn pudding or traditional cornbread, but it is distinct in several ways. Cornbread is usually firm and sliceable, while corn pudding is denser and sweeter. Spoon bread, however, is lighter and fluffier due to the incorporation of beaten eggs and baking powder. Its creamy interior sets it apart, making it more versatile as a side dish that pairs well with both savory and mildly sweet meals.

Where Spoon Bread is Typically Served

Spoon bread is traditionally served as a side dish at family gatherings, holiday meals, and Southern-style dinners. It complements main courses such as fried chicken, roasted turkey, or hearty stews. Modern restaurants in the South often present it as a comfort food side, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream, highlighting its delicate texture and subtle sweetness.

Interesting Facts

• The dish's name comes from the fact that it is eaten with a spoon rather than being sliced like traditional bread.
• Spoon bread was popularized in the 19th century as a way to make cornmeal more appealing to settlers accustomed to wheat-based breads.
• Some modern recipes include creative additions like jalapeos, cheese, or creamed corn to enhance flavor and texture.
• Its souffl-like rise is achieved by carefully folding beaten eggs into the cornmeal mixture, a technique that requires gentle handling to maintain airiness.
• Spoon bread reflects a unique blend of Native American and European culinary traditions, representing the adaptive nature of Southern cuisine.

FAQ about Easy Spoon Bread Recipe

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