Tadpole-In-A-Hole
A savory casserole combining corn, cheese, sausage, and cornbread batter, baked to golden perfection—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with hearty, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease sides and bottom of a baking dish.
- Crack the egg into a mixing bowl and beat.
- Add undrained corn and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese to the egg.
- Mix well with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the corn muffin mix until ingredients are wet; the batter will be thick.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Open the small smoked sausage links and pat dry.
- Arrange the sausage links on top of the batter.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using olive oil instead of shortening. If you want to add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the batter. You can also substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage for a healthier alternative. Ensure to drain the corn well if you prefer a less moist batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tadpole-In-A-Hole warm, garnished with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or you could complement it with some roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tadpole-In-A-Hole contains roughly 1031 calories, with 11g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 589mg per serving (26% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and top it with sausage a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of corn muffin mix?
If you don't have corn muffin mix, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of cornmeal, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix in the wet ingredients as directed in the recipe for a homemade alternative.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the smoked sausage links with plant-based sausage or omit them altogether for a meatless version. Adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture, making it a hearty vegetarian dish.
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).