Corn pudding is one of those magical dishes that brings warmth to every gathering, comforting every soul that sits around the table. Whether it’s served as a holiday side, a dish for a summer backyard barbecue, or a simple weeknight meal, Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding stands out as a beloved classic. Imagine a creamy, golden dish bubbling away in the oven, sending inviting aromas wafting through your home, hinting at the deliciousness to come. With every layer of flavor, it draws loved ones in, creating an atmosphere rich with laughter and chatter.
This recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating cherished memories. Picture your family gathered around, spoons poised with excitement, ready to dig into this simple yet indulgent dish. The smooth texture and subtly sweet flavor make it ideal for anyone from toddlers to grandparents, resonating across generations. Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding has that magical ability to elevate any dining experience into something special.
Setting the Scene
Imagine a chilly fall evening when the air is crisp, and the leaves dance in colors of amber and gold. The comforting glow of the kitchen lights spills onto the porch as you prepare Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding. The sound of laughter fills the air, perhaps from a gathering of close friends or a family reunions, where stories are swapped like cherished heirlooms. This dish is the heart of your home, the kind of meal that encourages second helpings and deep conversation.
As you take that first enticing bite, the buttery richness melds perfectly with the fresh taste of corn, echoing the warmth of family traditions. With a texture that is both creamy and satisfyingly hearty, this corn pudding is the very essence of comfort food. No matter the occasion, Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding transforms an ordinary weeknight meal or a festive celebration into a feast of flavors and cherished connections.
What You’ll Need
Creating this delightful dish is straightforward, requiring everyday ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a stunning outcome. Gather your supplies, and let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding to life!
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Tools
To create your corn pudding masterpiece, ensure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking dish (9×13 inches is ideal)
- Skillet (for melting butter, if needed)
- Spatula
How to Make It
With your ingredients and tools gathered, it’s time to embark on the delightful journey of making Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding. This step-by-step guide will take you through the process, creating an experience that’s almost as delectable as the dish itself.
Prep the Base
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). The gentle heat of the oven will soon envelop your kitchen in anticipation. Grab your baking dish and grease it generously to ensure a beautiful release later. The sound of the butter or oil sizzling as it coats the dish adds an enticing energy to the kitchen, signaling that something flavorful is on the horizon.
As you channel your excitement into the mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, melted butter, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. The vibrant yellows of the corn and the creamy whites of the mixture swirl together beautifully, a visual feast that hints at the deliciousness to come. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until it becomes a harmonious mixture, the textures transforming and thickening as if promising a delightful mouthfeel.
Build the Flavor
Once your mixture is beautifully combined, pour it into the greased baking dish. The sound of the mixture pouring out is melodic; it settles into the dish like a warm embrace. Take a moment to admire the homey fragrance wafting up—sweet, creamy, and slightly buttery—with hints of garlic weaving through to excite the palate.
If you’re looking to elevate this dish, now’s the time to add the optional shredded cheese. Sprinkle it generously on top, allowing it to meld during baking into a crusty topping that is both alluring and refined. That tantalizing triad of creaminess from the corn pudding and the golden brown crust brings your dish to life in a way that excites the senses—the way we engage with food can evoke such joy and nostalgia.
Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in the preheated oven, and let the magic happen. Set the timer for 45 to 50 minutes and relish the anticipation. The slow bake will yield mesmerizing results, as golden hues develop and the surface bubbles gently, the aroma slinking through your home like a warm hug. You’ll know it’s done when the pudding is set, no longer jiggly but firm and inviting.
As you pull the dish from the oven, let its warmth wash over you. Allow it to cool slightly, letting the enticing scent settle, leaving hints of sweet corn and creamy goodness lingering in the air. This short repose only adds to the allure, making it hard to resist.
Creative Twists
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding recipe, consider adding a personal touch or seasonal flair with some delightful variations:
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives to the mixture for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish in an unexpected direction.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who appreciate a bit of heat.
Seasonal Showcase: For a festive fall version, consider folding in roasted butternut squash or pumpkin purée to complement the dish with warm, autumnal flavors.
Cheesy Indulgence: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a cheesy twist with a bit of spice.
Protein Boost: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or shredded chicken for a heartier dish that works beautifully as a main course.
Final Inspiration
Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding is more than a recipe; it’s a delicious journey of flavor, warmth, and togetherness. The next time you want to bring a dish that captures hearts—whether at a festive gathering, cozy weeknight meal, or sun-kissed summer soirée—this corn pudding is your go-to.
So, gather your loved ones, create this culinary gem, and watch as smiles appear with each comforting bite. Make this dish part of your family traditions and share the joy of cooking together. Here’s to the moments that fill our hearts and bellies—get ready to savor every mouthwatering morsel of Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding!
Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or canned) Use fresh corn for the best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 3 large eggs Room temperature eggs whip better.
- ¼ cup sugar Adjust sugar to taste.
- ½ cup butter, melted Can also use vegetable oil.
- 1 cup cornmeal Yellow cornmeal works best.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional) Cheddar or pepper jack are great choices.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine corn kernels, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, melted butter, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk until well blended.
Building the Dish
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Optionally sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until the edges are golden and the pudding is set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.