Looking for a dish that screams comfort while keeping things festive this holiday season? Say hello to the Breakfast Cornbread Casserole with Ham and Kale. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just what you need to fuel up before tackling all those Christmas errands or lounging in your pajamas. This recipe is part of our Christmas Guide 2024, so consider it an official invitation to add some holiday cheer to your breakfast table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This casserole combines everything you want in a morning meal: creamy corn, savory ham, earthy kale, and a golden cornbread topping that’s as satisfying as opening presents on Christmas morning. Plus, it’s versatile! If kale isn’t your thing, swap it out for spinach or mustard greens. No ham? Cooked sausage works beautifully, too. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat.
Prep and Cooking Details
- Level: Easy
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Inactive: 15 minutes
- Cook: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8 to 10
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week ahead!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creamed Corn Base:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Two 16-ounce bags frozen corn, thawed
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ pound thick-sliced deli ham, diced
- 5 ounces frozen kale (about 1¾ cups)
Cornbread Topping:
- ¾ cup yellow cornmeal
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ sticks (12 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp yellow Cheddar cheese
- Hot sauce (for serving)
Directions: From Oven to Table
Step One: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter a 2-quart oval baking dish generously—no one likes scrubbing stuck-on casserole remnants.
Step Two: Make the Creamed Corn
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, thyme, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Stir until the onions are soft and translucent (about 10 minutes). Toss in the corn and cream, letting it simmer until reduced and bubbling (around 15 minutes). Take two cups of this mixture, puree it in a food processor until smooth, then stir it back into the skillet. Fold in the diced ham and kale. Pour this creamy goodness into your prepared baking dish.
Step Three: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
In a food processor, pulse together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add cold butter pieces and pulse until the mix resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Pour in heavy cream and half of the shredded Cheddar; pulse until just combined.
Step Four: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon dollops of cornbread batter over the creamed corn mixture—don’t stress about covering every inch; it’ll spread as it bakes. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar on top for extra cheesiness.
Step Five: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole on a baking sheet (to catch any bubbling over) and bake for about 35 minutes or until the crust is puffed and golden brown. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Trust us—it’s worth the wait.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
- Customize: Swap ham for bacon or sausage—or go vegetarian by leaving out the meat entirely.
- Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers make excellent additions if you want more color on your plate.
- Don’t Skip the Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce elevates every bite with just the right kick.
Why It’s Perfect for East Sacramento
East Sacramento folks know how to do cozy mornings right—whether you’re strolling through McKinley Park or savoring coffee at a local café. This casserole fits right in with our laid-back yet festive vibe. Plus, its blend of hearty ingredients and customizable options is ideal for feeding family or friends during those chilly December mornings.
So grab your casserole dish and get cooking! Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself to something special this season, this Breakfast Cornbread Casserole with Ham and Kale is bound to become a new holiday tradition.
Source: foodnetwork.com
Header Image Source: foodnetwork.com
