Mexican Corn Pudding
Mexican Corn Pudding is a creamy, cheesy side dish infused with the vibrant flavors of corn and chilies. Its comforting texture and bold taste make it perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, pairing well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, grated cheese, baking powder, salt, and diced chilies.
- Add the cream-style corn, beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, and garlic to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until set and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, you can replace the diced chilies with a jar of salsa for added flavor. Adding a pinch of cumin can also elevate the dish. If you want a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheese. This dish is a great companion to other Mexican recipes like Tamale Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Corn Pudding warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with Black Bean Casserole for a hearty meal. Consider offering a side of avocado salad or tortilla chips to complement the flavors. This dish also makes an excellent side for grilled meats or as part of a festive potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Corn Pudding contains roughly 445 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1003mg per serving (44% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it right before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you bake it ahead, reheat in the oven before serving.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or substitute with a plant-based cheese. For a lower-fat version, you could also use reduced-fat cheese, which still melts well.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more diced chilies or even some diced jalapeños to the mix for a heat boost. Additionally, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or hot sauce before serving can also enhance the spiciness to your liking.
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).