If you're looking for a delicious and hearty side dish, 1 cup of corn pudding is the perfect option. With a total of 328 calories per serving, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and taste buds.

Corn pudding is a classic Southern dish that consists of a creamy, custard-like texture with sweet corn kernels mixed in. It's easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients needed to make corn pudding, step-by-step instructions on how to prepare it, nutritional information, health benefits, tips to enhance the flavor, variations to try, the best time to serve it, storage instructions, and frequently asked questions.

A Brief Introduction to Corn Pudding

Corn pudding, also known as corn casserole, is a classic Southern dish that is often served during the holidays or family gatherings. It's a simple yet tasty side dish that is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. The dish consists of a mixture of corn kernels, eggs, milk, butter, sugar, and cornbread mix, which is baked in the oven until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Ingredients Required for Corn Pudding Recipe

To make corn pudding, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 can of corn kernels, drained
• 1 can of creamed corn
• 1 package of cornbread mix
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Instructions to Prepare Corn Pudding

Here's how to make corn pudding:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, creamed corn, cornbread mix, melted butter, eggs, milk, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information of Corn Pudding

Here is the nutritional information for 1 cup of corn pudding:

• calories: 328
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 78mg
• Sodium: 572mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 19g
• Protein: 5g

Health Benefits of Corn Pudding

Despite its decadent taste and creamy texture, corn pudding does have some health benefits:

• Rich in fiber: Corn pudding contains fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full for longer.
• Source of vitamins and minerals: Corn is a good source of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
• Provides energy: With carbohydrates from the cornbread mix and sugar, corn pudding can give you a quick energy boost.

Tips to Enhance the Taste of Corn Pudding

Here are some tips to make your corn pudding even more delicious:

• Add shredded cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar cheese on top of the corn pudding during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Use fresh corn: Instead of canned corn, use fresh corn off the cob for a sweeter taste and crunchier texture.
• Add spices: You can add spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili powder to give the corn pudding a little kick.

Variations of Corn Pudding

Here are some variations of corn pudding you can try:

• Green Chile Corn Pudding: Add chopped green chilies to the mix for a spicy twist.
• Bacon Corn Pudding: Crumble cooked bacon and mix it into the corn pudding for a smoky flavor.
• Corn Pudding with Jalapenos and Cheese: Add diced jalapenos and shredded cheese to the mix for a spicy and cheesy twist.

Best Time to Serve Corn Pudding

Corn pudding is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course depending on the occasion. Here are some ideas for when to serve corn pudding:

• Holiday gatherings: Corn pudding is a popular side dish during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• BBQs and potlucks: Corn pudding is easy to transport and can be served at room temperature.
• Brunch: Serve corn pudding with bacon and eggs for a hearty breakfast.

Storage Instructions for Corn Pudding

If you have leftovers, here's how to store corn pudding:

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions about Corn Pudding

Here are some commonly asked questions about corn pudding:

• What's the difference between cornbread and corn pudding? Cornbread is a baked bread made with cornmeal, whereas corn pudding is a custard-like dish with a creamier texture.
• Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn? Yes, you can use fresh corn off the cob instead of canned corn, but the texture and taste may be slightly different.
• Can I make corn pudding ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the corn pudding ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to serve.
• Can I freeze corn pudding? Yes, you can freeze the corn pudding for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.