Cheesy Spoon Bread
Cheesy spoon bread offers a creamy, savory cornmeal base topped with melted cheddar and a hint of spice, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir 1 cup of milk into the cornmeal in a saucepan; cook, stirring, over medium heat until it reaches the consistency of thickened mush.
- Remove from heat; stir in remaining milk, 1 tablespoon butter, shredded cheddar cheese, baking powder, salt, and chopped jalapeno or red pepper flakes.
- Stir until the cheese melts and blends well with the mixture.
- Stir in the beaten egg.
- Spoon the mixture into a well-greased 1-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated 325°F oven for 45 minutes.
- Top with the remaining butter before serving.
- Serve hot as a main dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra ounce of cheese or a splash of cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chopped jalapeno or red pepper flakes. You can substitute the aged Cheddar with other sharp cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack if desired. This cheesy spoon bread pairs beautifully with Quick Cherry Pie for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy spoon bread hot as a comforting main dish, perhaps alongside a fresh salad like Quilting Party Salad for a balanced meal. It also complements hearty soups or stews, making it a versatile addition to your table. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spoon bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Spoon Bread contains roughly 590 calories, with 15g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2670mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses! While aged Cheddar is recommended for its sharp flavor, you can use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this cheesy spoon bread gluten-free, ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free and use a gluten-free cornmeal. Most cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check the packaging to avoid cross-contamination. This will still yield a delicious result!
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time! Combine all the ingredients except the egg and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply stir in the beaten egg and follow the baking instructions. This makes it convenient for meal prep!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).