Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding Recipe

Corn pudding has become a cherished dish, embodying warmth and comfort in every bite. Growing up, my family often sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while enjoying my grandmother’s corn pudding. This delightful recipe brings the taste of home to the modern kitchen, a blend of sweet and savory that dances on your tongue.

The key to a fantastic corn pudding lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Ruth’s Chris corn pudding recipe captures that beloved essence perfectly. This dish combines whole kernel corn and creamed corn, creating a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. The addition of corn muffin mix ensures the pudding has that ideal moistness without being overly dense, a quality often missed in other variations.

The joy of creating this dish lies not just in the ingredients but in the memories it evokes. Whether served during family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight side, Ruth’s Chris corn pudding embodies the spirit of togetherness. The rich taste envelops you, making every meal feel like a celebration.

Creating this iconic dish doesn’t get much easier. With just a few simple steps, you can resemble that comforting table from your childhood and make every mealtime special.

The Foundations of Ruth’s Chris Corn Pudding

Fundamentals

Using whole kernel corn and creamed corn as your base provides unique flavors and textures. Whole kernel corn brings a delightful pop, while creamed corn adds creaminess that binds everything together. The corn muffin mix acts as a fantastic thickening agent, balancing the richness from the sour cream and melted butter.

Understanding these components helps you appreciate the balance of flavors and how they interact during cooking. It’s essential to stir gently, ensuring even distribution without overmixing. This prevents the pudding from becoming gummy, maintaining that light texture we all crave.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation is simple yet vital. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This temperature allows the pudding to cook evenly, achieving that perfect golden crust. Greasing your baking dish thoroughly with melted butter ensures your corn pudding comes out effortlessly, looking lovely and intact.

Gather your ingredients before starting; organization aids in a smooth workflow. Ensuring all elements are ready allows you to focus on the blending and baking processes, avoiding any stress. The blend of flavors as you combine the ingredients is where the magic begins.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for Ruth’s Chris corn pudding. These simple, accessible items enhance the dish’s taste and texture:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
• 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Having everything ready before you start makes the process much more enjoyable and efficient.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Grease your baking dish thoroughly with melted butter.
3. Combine the whole kernel corn and creamed corn in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add the corn muffin mix to the corn mixture, stirring gently for even incorporation.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the large eggs until fluffy.
6. Mix the sour cream with melted butter in a separate bowl until combined.
7. Gradually add sugar and salt to the mixture, stirring well.
8. Combine all the ingredients—corn mixture, egg mixture, and sour cream mixture—until just mixed together.
9. Pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown. Conduct a toothpick test in the center for doneness.
11. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes before serving warm.

Now you have the foundational recipe for Ruth’s Chris corn pudding. The next step is perfecting the technique.

Mastering the Technique of Corn Pudding

Technique

Crafting the perfect corn pudding requires attention to detail during preparation and baking. Whisking the eggs until fluffy creates that light texture essential for this dish. Integrating the sour cream and melted butter ensures that each bite feels rich and creamy without becoming too heavy.

When combining the ingredients, mix them until just combined. Overmixing leads to a denser texture, undermining the airy quality. Use a spatula to fold in the ingredients gently; this technique preserves the integrity of the mixture while ensuring an even distribution.

Tips/Tricks

Taking a few extra steps can elevate your corn pudding to new heights. First, consider using fresh or frozen corn to enhance flavor; it can make a noticeable difference. If you want to add complexity, try integrating jalapeños for a hint of spice or cheese for a richer flavor.

Pay attention to the baking time. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your dish as it approaches the 45-minute mark. Adjust the baking time if you notice it browning too quickly on top. You can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while still allowing it to cook through.

If you enjoy a sweeter pudding, feel free to increase the sugar slightly. Testing the pudding for doneness is crucial—no one wants a soggy center!

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting Results

Once you take the corn pudding out of the oven, it might be tempting to dig in right away, but let it cool for a little while. Cooling allows it to set, making it easier to serve. You’ll see the sides pull slightly away from the dish, creating a delectable golden-brown crust.

The perfect corn pudding should have a tender center that holds together yet is soft and creamy. If you feel adventurous, experimenting with toppings like crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs can add an exciting twist to this classic dish.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your corn pudding comes out unexpectedly dense, a few factors could contribute. Overmixing the batter leads to dense results, so always aim for a gentle incorporation of ingredients. Additionally, ensure your baking powder in the corn muffin mix is fresh for that perfect rise.

Variations can personalize this classic dish. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses or even other vegetables like bell peppers. Be cautious with additional liquids; too much moisture can hinder the consistency.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving/Presentation

Presenting Ruth’s Chris corn pudding can be as delightful as eating it. Serving it warm enhances flavors and adds to the comfort factor. You can spoon it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Alternatively, cut it into squares and serve on a platter.

Completing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, elevates its visual appeal and adds a pop of color. Give it a rustic feel by placing it in a well-loved baking dish, showcasing the warmth it brings to any table setting.

Pairings/Storage

Ruth’s Chris corn pudding pairs beautifully with various simple side dishes or lighter meals, like roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The sweetness of the pudding complements savory flavors incredibly well.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Corn pudding can also freeze well. If you choose this route, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container for optimal flavor preservation.

Corn Pudding Finale

Ruth’s Chris corn pudding brings nostalgia and comfort in every serving. The harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful experience, encapsulating the essence of family gatherings. By mastering the technique and understanding the ingredients, you can make corn pudding a staple in your kitchen, serving up joy during every meal. Enjoy creating, savoring, and sharing this delicious dish.

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