Ham and Cheddar Corn Pudding Casserole

Discover the effortless joy of a savory corn pudding casserole that perfectly balances sweet corn, salty ham, and melted cheddar cheese in every single bite.

This corn pudding casserole is a quintessential comfort dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both homey and satisfying. By layering diced ham and sweet corn under a rich, golden corn muffin batter and topping it with plenty of cheddar, you create a meal that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

It is an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something warm and reliable, or for a weekend brunch that requires very little active preparation time from the cook.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The method of layering ingredients directly in the baking dish ensures that the ham and corn remain distributed throughout the final product.

As the corn muffin batter rises and sets around the savory base, it absorbs the juices from the ham and the moisture from the corn, resulting in a pudding-like texture that is perfectly tender and moist throughout the entire casserole.

Using a ceramic baking dish provides even heat distribution, which is essential for achieving the characteristic golden-brown edges.

The cheddar cheese on top acts as a protective layer during the first part of the bake, melting into the batter to create a savory crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet interior of the corn pudding, making every scoop a balanced combination of textures and flavors.

Notes and substitutions

For the best results, use a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese, as it stands up well to the sweetness of the corn and the saltiness of the ham. If you prefer a milder flavor, a medium cheddar or even a Monterey Jack can be substituted, though the intensity of the sharp variety is highly recommended for this specific combination of ingredients.

The choice of baking dish matters significantly for the final texture. A rectangular ceramic dish is ideal because it allows for a consistent depth of batter.

If you use a glass dish, you may need to reduce the oven temperature slightly to prevent the edges from browning too quickly before the center of the pudding has had a chance to fully set during the baking process.

• Diced cooked ham: Diced cooked turkey or crumbled cooked breakfast sausage can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Corn muffin batter: A standard homemade corn bread batter or a high-quality store-bought mix prepared according to package directions works well.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch ceramic baking dish
• mixing bowl
• serving spoon