Mississippi Spoon Bread
Mississippi Spoon Bread is a creamy, comforting cornbread dish with a custard-like texture, perfect for family gatherings or Sunday dinners. Its rich flavors appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cornmeal in a saucepan.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Add butter and salt, stirring until butter is melted.
- Cool the mixture.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour batter into a well-greased 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes.
- Serve immediately with butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whole milk or even buttermilk. You can substitute margarine with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne. Ensure to stir constantly while cooking the cornmeal to prevent lumps. If you prefer a cheesy version, fold in shredded cheese before baking, which pairs beautifully with Cheddar Vegetable Medley.
Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Spoon Bread is best enjoyed warm, slathered with butter. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like fried chicken or barbecue. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or consider including a side of Cream Cheese Jello Salad for a delightful contrast. It's also a great complement to Baked (Or Fried) Apple Pies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a small pat of butter while reheating can revive its moistness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mississippi Spoon Bread contains roughly 394 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% 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 Mississippi Spoon Bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you refrigerate the batter, let it come to room temperature before pouring it into the casserole dish.
What can I do if my spoon bread doesn't rise?
If your spoon bread doesn't rise, it could be due to underbeating the eggs or not using fresh eggs. Ensure you beat each egg thoroughly into the mixture. Additionally, make sure your oven is preheated properly and that you're using the correct baking dish size, as an overly large dish can spread the batter too thin.
Can I add vegetables to the spoon bread?
Absolutely! Incorporating finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance the dish. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the batter to soften them and bring out their flavors. This makes it a great option for those looking for vegetarian recipes.
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).