Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole

We were craving something cozy and savory. So, we made this Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole. And wow—it smelled like fall right away.

It’s soft, buttery, and full of herbs. Each bite has that warm, earthy flavor we love. Plus, it goes with just about everything.

We serve it with soup, roast chicken, or just on its own. It’s that good. Like, you’ll want seconds before you even finish your first bite.

Wanna try it too? Let’s make it together. It’s easier than you think.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: As one reader put it, “This cornbread casserole is a total game-changer. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and the perfect balance of cheesy goodness.”
• Perfect for Fall: The earthy herbal notes of thyme, rosemary, and sage make this dish an ideal companion for autumn meals.
• Simple & Quick: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is as easy as mixing and baking, making it perfect for busy nights or casual family gatherings.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of sour cream and creamed corn ensures this casserole stays moist and fluffy while the cornbread base creates a slight crunch on top.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this casserole up to a day ahead, saving you time on the day of your event.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools ready:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for spreading out the casserole and allowing it to bake evenly.
• Large mixing bowl: To combine all of your ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy and the perfect flavor balance.
• Whisk or spoon for mixing: You’ll need something to blend all of your ingredients together smoothly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting, herb-packed cornbread casserole:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for the casserole’s structure.
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal: Essential for creating the classic cornbread texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures your casserole rises beautifully, making it light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors in the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor that is a hallmark of autumn.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: This herb infuses the casserole with a pine-like, woody note.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried sage: Complements the other herbs and adds warmth to the dish.
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn kernels, drained: Provides a natural sweetness and texture to the casserole.
• 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn: This adds moisture, richness, and a creamy texture to the casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream: Ensures the casserole stays moist and adds a tangy richness.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent to hold the casserole together.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor to the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The cheese adds a savory, melty element that makes this casserole irresistible.

Variations for Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole

Feel free to get creative with this dish. Here are some variations to customize it to your liking:

• Add Bacon: For a smoky, savory touch, sauté some bacon and sprinkle it on top before baking. The bacon crisps up as the casserole bakes and adds depth of flavor.
• Add Sausage: Ground sausage can give the casserole a more hearty, savory element. Brown it up and stir it in with the other ingredients.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, swap out the dried thyme, rosemary, and sage for fresh versions. You’ll want about 2-3 tablespoons of fresh herbs for each dried herb in the recipe.
• Add Vegetables: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding sautéed onions, peppers, or even spinach to your casserole.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs and butter with plant-based alternatives like flax eggs and dairy-free butter. You can also use dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it plenty of time to reach the perfect temperature while you prepare the casserole.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole will come out easily after baking.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Whisk everything together until evenly mixed. The dried herbs will be evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, melted butter, and creamed corn. This combination will add richness and moisture to the casserole.

5. Add the Wet to the Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the casserole dense.

6. Fold in the Corn and Cheese

Once your batter is mixed, fold in the drained corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese. These ingredients will add a burst of flavor and texture to the casserole.

7. Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the cornbread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the dish, ensuring an even bake.

8. Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly crispy around the edges.

9. Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole is baked to perfection, here are a few serving ideas:

• Serve with Roast Chicken: This casserole pairs beautifully with a crispy roast chicken, whether it’s herb-roasted or lemon garlic chicken.
• Pair with Soup: Serve alongside a rich butternut squash or pumpkin soup for the ultimate fall comfort meal.
• Add a Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole. You could also pair it with a hearty kale salad.
• Great for Thanksgiving: If you’re looking for a side dish for your Thanksgiving table, this casserole is a wonderful addition next to mashed potatoes, turkey, and cranberry sauce.

Storing Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole

• Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you like a crispy top, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two to get that golden crust back.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 12 servings total):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	420mg
Total Carbohydrates	29g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	6g
Protein	7g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Conclusion

Autumn Herb Cornbread Casserole is the perfect dish to celebrate the flavors of fall. With the savory herbs, sweet corn, and cheesy cornbread texture, it’s a crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or enjoying it as a comforting side dish during the week, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

With its simplicity and versatility, this casserole is a great make-ahead option and can be customized to your preferences. Plus, it pairs well with so many main dishes, making it an easy addition to any menu.