Easy Spoon Bread

This Easy Spoon Bread recipe is a classic Southern comfort dish made with cornmeal, milk, and eggs. It’s a creamy, pudding-like side dish with a golden-brown top, perfect for pairing with meats, stews, or soups. Simple to make and ready in under an hour, this spoon bread is a great addition to family dinners or holiday meals. The smooth, soft texture combined with a hint of sweetness makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ cup sugar

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the butter in a 1½-quart casserole dish and place it in the oven to melt while it preheats.
2. Heat the Milk
   In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until fine bubbles begin to form around the edges of the pan.
3. Combine Cornmeal and Milk
   Slowly whisk in the cornmeal into the hot milk, stirring continuously to avoid clumping. Once well combined, continue to cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Temper the Eggs
   Whisk several tablespoons of the hot cornmeal mixture into the beaten eggs, stirring to warm the eggs. Repeat the process by adding a few more tablespoons of the hot mixture to the eggs, then slowly pour the warmed eggs into the cornmeal mixture, stirring constantly.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients
   Add the salt, baking powder, and sugar to the cornmeal mixture, and stir well to combine.
6. Bake the Spoon Bread
   Carefully pour the mixture into the hot casserole dish with melted butter. Bake for about 35 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and set.
7. Serve Hot
   For best results, serve the spoon bread while it’s still warm.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and creamy, with a soft, pudding-like texture
• Simple to make with just a few ingredients
• Perfect for any meal, whether as a side dish or a light main course
• Quick to prepare, ready in just 45 minutes
• Can be served at gatherings or family dinners, offering a touch of Southern flavor

---

Tips

• Use whole milk for the creamiest texture.
• Be sure to temper the eggs slowly by adding hot liquid gradually to avoid scrambling.
• If you like a slightly sweeter flavor, feel free to add more sugar (up to ½ cup).
• The butter helps achieve a crispy, golden edge, so don’t skip this step.
• Mix carefully to avoid over-stirring the batter once the eggs are added.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Add cheese: Stir in a cup of grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• If you’re avoiding dairy, try almond milk and dairy-free butter as a substitute for the milk and butter.
• Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be stirred in for extra flavor.

---

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spoon bread up to a day ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

Can I make it without eggs?
Eggs provide structure and texture, so it’s best to keep them in the recipe. However, you can experiment with egg substitutes like a flaxseed egg or a commercial egg replacer.

Why is my spoon bread not set?
Make sure the oven is fully preheated, and allow the mixture to bake for the full 35 minutes. If it’s still too soft, let it bake for a few extra minutes.

---

Serving

• Serve spoon bread with a hearty roast or grilled meats like chicken or pork.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
• It’s also great as a side for soups or stews, offering a comforting texture contrast.

---

Suggestions

• Make it extra creamy by adding a tablespoon of cream cheese to the cornmeal mixture before baking.
• For a savory option, add sautéed onions or garlic to the cornmeal mixture for extra flavor.
• If you’re serving a large group, double the recipe and bake it in a larger casserole dish.