We’ve all experienced that moment at City BBQ when we take our first spoonful of their legendary corn pudding and wonder how something so simple can taste so incredibly rich and satisfying. This Southern-inspired side dish has become a fan favorite at the popular barbecue chain and it’s easy to see why – the perfect balance of sweet corn kernels nestled in a creamy custard-like base creates pure comfort food magic.
What makes City BBQ’s corn pudding so special isn’t just the flavor but the texture that strikes the perfect balance between pudding and casserole. We’ve cracked the code on recreating this restaurant favorite at home so you can enjoy that same creamy indulgence whenever the craving hits.
Our copycat recipe delivers all the comfort and flavor you love from the original while being surprisingly simple to make in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs perfectly with any barbecue spread.
Equipment Needed
We recommend gathering these essential kitchen tools before starting our City BBQ corn pudding recipe. The right equipment ensures smooth preparation and perfect results every time.
Mixing Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl for combining wet ingredients
- Medium mixing bowl for dry ingredients
- Wire whisk for smooth blending
- Rubber spatula for folding ingredients
Baking Essentials:
- 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole pan
- Measuring cups (dry and liquid)
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen scale (optional but helpful for precision)
Preparation Tools:
- Can opener for canned corn
- Fine-mesh strainer for draining corn
- Sharp knife for chopping (if using fresh herbs)
- Cutting board
Cooking Equipment:
- Conventional oven or convection oven
- Oven mitts for safe handling
- Cooling rack
- Aluminum foil (for covering if needed)
Most home kitchens already contain these basic tools. We find that using a glass or ceramic baking dish produces the most even heating for our corn pudding. Metal pans work well too but may require slight temperature adjustments.
The wire whisk proves particularly important for achieving the smooth consistency that makes City BBQ’s corn pudding so appealing. We avoid using electric mixers as they can overwork the batter and create a dense texture rather than the light and creamy result we want.
Ingredients
We have carefully selected each ingredient to replicate the rich and creamy texture that makes City BBQ’s corn pudding so irresistible. Our recipe combines simple pantry staples with fresh corn elements to create this beloved side dish.
For the Corn Pudding Base
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed style corn
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for caramelization)
The combination of cornmeal and flour provides the perfect balance of texture and structure that defines this classic corn pudding. Sugar adds subtle sweetness to enhance the natural corn flavors while baking powder ensures the pudding rises properly during baking. Both creamed corn and whole kernel corn contribute different textures, with the creamed corn providing moisture and the whole kernels adding pleasant bursts of corn flavor throughout each bite.
Prep Work
Proper preparation is the key to achieving that signature City BBQ corn pudding texture and flavor. We’ll walk through each step to ensure your ingredients are perfectly prepared before combining them.
Preparing the Corn
We start by draining the whole kernel corn to remove excess liquid that could make our pudding watery. The combination of creamed corn and whole kernel corn creates the perfect balance of texture and sweetness that makes this dish so irresistible.
Drain the whole kernel corn in a fine mesh strainer for about 5 minutes. Give the can a gentle shake to remove any remaining liquid. The creamed corn stays as is since its thick consistency provides the moisture and creaminess our pudding needs.
Fresh corn works beautifully if you prefer to use it instead of canned. Cut kernels from 3-4 ears of corn and pulse half of them in a food processor to create your own creamed corn mixture. This natural sweetness elevates the dish and provides wonderful texture variation throughout each bite.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
We combine all wet ingredients in a separate bowl to ensure even distribution before adding them to our dry mixture. This method prevents lumps and creates that smooth custard-like consistency City BBQ is famous for.
Beat 2 eggs thoroughly in a large mixing bowl until they’re completely smooth. Add 1 cup of sour cream and whisk until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined. The sour cream adds richness and helps create that slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the corn.
Melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it cool slightly before adding it to our egg and sour cream mixture. Pour the melted butter in a steady stream while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking. Add the heavy cream if using and whisk everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in color.
Instructions
We’re ready to transform our carefully prepared ingredients into the creamy corn pudding that makes City BBQ famous. Follow these detailed steps to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Making the Corn Pudding Mixture
We start by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together 2/3 cup flour, 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
Add the 15 oz can of creamed corn and the drained 15 oz can of whole kernel corn to our dry mixture. The creamed corn provides moisture while the whole kernels deliver bursts of fresh corn flavor.
Beat the 2 eggs in a separate bowl before adding them to our corn mixture. Pour in 1 cup of sour cream and 8 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Mix thoroughly with a wire whisk until we achieve a creamy, uniform batter without any lumps.
The consistency should be smooth and custard like, with visible corn kernels throughout the mixture. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense final texture.
Preparing the Baking Dish
Preheat our oven to 325°F while we prepare the baking dish. This moderate temperature ensures even cooking without burning the top.
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly with butter or non stick spray. Proper greasing prevents sticking and promotes even browning on the bottom and sides.
We recommend using a glass or ceramic baking dish for optimal heat distribution. Metal pans work but may cause uneven browning around the edges.
Baking the Corn Pudding
Pour our prepared corn pudding mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform cooking.
Place the dish in our preheated 325°F oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown and the pudding should be set throughout.
Test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. The knife should come out clean when the corn pudding is fully cooked. The surface should feel firm to the touch with slight browning around the edges.
Allow the corn pudding to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the texture set properly and makes slicing easier.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
We recommend using quality corn to enhance the sweetness and texture of our corn pudding. Fresh corn kernels provide the best flavor, but good-quality canned corn works excellently when fresh isn’t available. The key lies in properly draining the whole kernel corn to prevent excess moisture from affecting the pudding’s consistency.
Temperature control makes a important difference in achieving the perfect texture. We always preheat our oven to exactly 325°F and maintain this temperature throughout the baking process. Higher temperatures can cause the edges to cook too quickly while leaving the center undercooked.
Mixing technique plays a crucial role in creating the signature creamy texture. We ensure all ingredients like sour cream, butter, and corn are evenly combined for consistent creaminess throughout the dish. The whisking should be thorough but gentle to avoid developing the gluten in the flour too much.
Timing the bake prevents the common mistake of overcooking. We bake our corn pudding for approximately 45 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. The pudding should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the middle, as it will continue cooking from residual heat after removal from the oven.
Testing for perfect doneness requires attention to visual and tactile cues. The top should be golden brown with a slightly firm surface, while the interior remains creamy and custard-like rather than dense or dry. We avoid overbaking as this leads to a tough, rubbery texture that lacks the desired creaminess.
Resting time allows the pudding to achieve its ideal serving consistency. We let our corn pudding cool for 10-15 minutes after baking, which helps it firm up enough for clean slicing while maintaining the creamy interior texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
| Cooking Parameter | Recommended Setting | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 325°F | Even cooking without burning |
| Baking Time | 45 minutes | Set texture with creamy center |
| Resting Time | 10-15 minutes | Proper firmness for serving |
| Doneness Test | Knife inserted clean | Perfect custard-like consistency |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Our City BBQ corn pudding adapts perfectly to advance preparation methods that save valuable time on serving day. We recommend assembling the entire dish up to 24 hours before your planned meal.
Advance Assembly Process
We start by preparing the complete corn pudding mixture following our standard recipe instructions. The batter combines beautifully with all wet and dry ingredients fully incorporated. Our greased 9×13 inch casserole dish receives the prepared mixture just as if we were baking immediately.
Proper Storage Techniques
We cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap to prevent surface drying. Aluminum foil provides an additional protective layer that we place directly over the plastic wrap. Our refrigerator storage maintains the dish’s quality for up to one full day without compromising texture or flavor.
Pre-Baking Preparation
We remove the covered casserole from refrigeration approximately 30 minutes before baking. This brief room temperature rest allows even cooking throughout the dish. Our oven preheats to the standard 325°F temperature while the casserole warms slightly.
Adjusted Baking Guidelines
We extend the original 45-minute baking time by approximately 10-15 minutes when starting from refrigerated temperatures. The center should reach our target consistency before we consider the dish complete. Our standard doneness tests remain effective for determining proper completion.
Alternative Slow Cooker Method
We can transfer the refrigerated mixture directly to a slow cooker for convenient preparation. The cooking time adjusts to approximately 3-4 hours on low heat setting. Our slow cooker method produces equally satisfying results with minimal active preparation time.
| Storage Method | Maximum Time | Temperature Adjustment | Additional Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Assembly | 24 hours | Room temp 30 min | 10-15 minutes |
| Slow Cooker Direct | 24 hours | Cold start acceptable | 3-4 hours total |
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage techniques ensure our homemade City BBQ corn pudding maintains its rich flavor and creamy texture for several days. We need to allow the corn pudding to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. This cooling process prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
Once cooled, we transfer the leftover corn pudding to an airtight container for optimal freshness. The pudding will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored properly. We recommend dividing large portions into smaller containers for easier reheating and portion control.
Reheating methods vary depending on the portion size and desired results. For larger portions, we preheat the oven to 350°F and place the corn pudding in a covered baking dish. The reheating process takes approximately 15-20 minutes until the pudding is warmed through completely.
Individual servings require a gentler approach using the microwave method. We place single portions on microwave-safe plates and heat on medium power using 30-second intervals. This technique prevents overcooking while ensuring even heating throughout the portion.
Testing the internal temperature helps us confirm proper reheating without compromising texture. The corn pudding should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. We avoid reheating the same portion multiple times to maintain the best quality and prevent foodborne illness.
Adding a tablespoon of butter or a splash of milk during reheating can restore moisture if the pudding appears dry. This technique helps recreate the original creamy consistency that makes City BBQ corn pudding so appealing.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy corn pudding transforms any barbecue spread into a memorable feast. We recommend pairing it with smoked or roasted meats such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, or prime rib. The dish’s creamy texture and mild sweetness create the perfect balance against rich, smoky barbecue flavors.
Our corn pudding shines as a warm side dish at barbecues, family dinners, or holiday meals. The comforting casserole complements both casual weeknight dinners and special occasion gatherings. We’ve found it particularly popular during summer cookouts where its cooling creaminess provides relief from spicy barbecue sauces.
For enhanced presentation, we suggest garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. A light drizzle of honey butter adds an extra layer of flavor that guests absolutely love. Some barbecue enthusiasts enjoy serving it alongside classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread for a complete Southern-style meal.
The pudding serves beautifully at potluck dinners and church gatherings. We recommend cutting it into neat squares for easy serving, allowing the creamy interior to showcase while maintaining its shape. Room temperature serving works well for buffet-style events, though most people prefer it warm.
Consider pairing this corn pudding with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded meal. The sweet corn flavors also complement seafood dishes like grilled salmon or shrimp, making it versatile beyond traditional barbecue fare. We’ve discovered it works exceptionally well as a Thanksgiving side dish, offering a modern twist on classic holiday flavors.
Recipe Variations
We love transforming our classic City BBQ corn pudding into exciting variations that add new dimensions of flavor. These adaptations maintain the dish’s signature creamy texture while introducing bold tastes that complement different barbecue styles.
Spicy City BBQ Corn Pudding
Our spicy variation brings heat to the classic recipe without overwhelming the corn’s natural sweetness. We incorporate 2-3 diced jalapeños into the wet ingredients, removing seeds for moderate heat or keeping them for extra kick. Adding 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients creates a subtle warmth throughout the pudding. Smoked paprika enhances the barbecue flavor profile while contributing a gentle heat that builds with each bite.
For those who prefer more intense heat, we recommend adding 1-2 finely minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mixture. The smoky chipotle flavor pairs exceptionally well with the corn’s sweetness and adds complexity to the dish. Fresh diced serrano peppers offer another option for those seeking a cleaner, brighter heat that doesn’t mask the corn’s flavor.
Cheese-Loaded Version
Our cheese-loaded corn pudding transforms the classic recipe into an indulgent, restaurant-quality side dish. We fold 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese into the batter before baking, ensuring even distribution throughout the pudding. The sharp cheddar provides tangy depth that balances the corn’s sweetness perfectly.
Adding 1/2 cup of pepper jack cheese introduces mild heat along with creamy richness. Monterey Jack cheese offers a milder option that melts beautifully and creates an ultra-smooth texture. We reserve an additional 1/2 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top during the last 15 minutes of baking, creating a golden, bubbly crust that adds visual appeal.
For maximum indulgence, we combine three cheeses: sharp cheddar for flavor, cream cheese for extra richness, and pepper jack for subtle heat. The cream cheese should be softened and mixed into the wet ingredients to prevent lumps. This triple-cheese combination creates a pudding so rich and satisfying that it becomes the star of any barbecue spread.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to recreate City BBQ’s famous corn pudding right in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe delivers that perfect balance of creamy texture and rich corn flavor that makes the original so irresistible.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or looking for the perfect side dish for your next family gathering this corn pudding won’t disappoint. The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it with spicy additions or extra cheese to suit your taste preferences.
With proper storage techniques and make-ahead options you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes. We’re confident this homemade version will become a staple at your dinner table just like it is at City BBQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes City BBQ corn pudding so special?
City BBQ corn pudding combines the rich, creamy texture of a pudding with the hearty consistency of a casserole. Its popularity comes from the perfect balance of sweet corn flavor, smooth custard-like base, and satisfying texture that complements barbecue dishes perfectly. The dish uses both creamed corn for moisture and whole kernel corn for bursts of flavor.
What equipment do I need to make this corn pudding recipe?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools that most home cooks already have: mixing bowls, a wire whisk (not an electric mixer), measuring cups and spoons, and a 9×13 inch baking dish. A glass or ceramic baking dish is recommended for even heating. The wire whisk is essential for achieving the smooth consistency without creating a dense texture.
Can I prepare corn pudding ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then refrigerate. Before baking, let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes and extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes since it’s starting from a cold temperature.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftover corn pudding?
Cool the corn pudding completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat larger portions in the oven and individual servings in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add a little butter or milk during reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
What temperature should I bake corn pudding at and for how long?
Bake the corn pudding at 325°F for approximately 45 minutes. The consistent temperature prevents uneven cooking. Test for doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean. Let the pudding rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to achieve the ideal serving consistency.
Can I make variations to the basic corn pudding recipe?
Absolutely! You can create a spicy version by adding diced jalapeños and cayenne pepper, or make a cheese-loaded variation with sharp cheddar cheese. These adaptations maintain the signature creamy texture while adding new flavor dimensions that complement different barbecue styles and personal preferences.
What dishes pair well with corn pudding?
Corn pudding is perfect alongside smoked or roasted meats like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. It’s versatile enough for barbecues, family dinners, holiday meals, and potlucks. The dish also complements seafood and pairs well with other classic sides. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or honey butter for enhanced presentation.
