This Kielbasa and Cornbread Casserole is warm, savory, a little bit sweet, and full of that golden, cheesy, baked-up goodness that makes you go back for seconds. It’s simple to put together with a box of cornbread mix and some sliced kielbasa—and it bakes into this cozy, slightly crispy-topped dish that feels like comfort in a skillet.
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
I made this casserole on a chilly night with random stuff in the fridge—and it turned into something I now crave. The combo of smoky kielbasa with sweet cornbread and melty cheese is next-level good.
Why it’s in the regular dinner rotation:
- 🐖 Kielbasa adds smoky, juicy bites with no extra work
- 🧀 Cheese melts into the cornbread = pure comfort
- 🌽 Cornbread mix keeps it fast and easy
- 🍲 One-bowl, one-dish meal
- 🔁 Even better the next day
⏱️ Time & Servings
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
📊 Exact Macros (per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 30g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Kielbasa is pre-cooked, so it adds big flavor without needing long cook time.
- Cornbread rises around the sausage to lock in flavor and moisture.
- Cheese melts into the batter, giving that gooey factor everyone loves.
- Layering ingredients evenly helps with consistent texture throughout.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) kielbasa, sliced into half moons
- 1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix (like Jiffy)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the dish)
- Optional: pinch of black pepper, hot sauce for serving
🍽️ How to Make Kielbasa and Cornbread Casserole
1. Preheat Oven & Grease Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Butter a 9×9 or 8×10 casserole dish.
2. Slice the Kielbasa
Cut the kielbasa into thick half-moons.
📸 AI Image Prompt: Ultra close-up of kielbasa being sliced on a wooden cutting board into half-moon pieces, juicy and pink with browned edges. White marble counters with hints of gold. With all-natural lighting, taken with an iPhone 15 Pro, top-down shot used by recipe bloggers.
3. Mix Cornbread Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, eggs, and milk. Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in Kielbasa, Cheese & Green Onions
Gently fold in the kielbasa slices, shredded cheese, and green onions.
5. Pour into Dish & Bake
Pour the mixture into your buttered dish. Smooth the top and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and set in the middle.
6. Let Cool Slightly, Then Serve
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting into squares.
🍴 What to Serve With
- 🥬 Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- 🥄 Creamy coleslaw
- 🌶️ Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce
- 🧄 Garlic roasted green beans
📅 Meal Plan Ideas
- Lunch leftovers: Warm up a square with a side salad
- Weeknight dinner: Serve with coleslaw or a side veggie
- Brunch: Add a fried egg on top
- Make ahead: Prep the night before and bake fresh
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: It makes the cornbread dense
- Not greasing the dish well: You’ll lose that golden crust
- Undercooking: Check the center with a toothpick
- Too much cheese on top: It can brown too quickly—mix it in instead
❓ FAQ
Can I use turkey kielbasa?
Yep! It’s a great leaner option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Mix everything and keep it in the fridge, then bake when ready.
Does it freeze well?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, cut into squares, and freeze in airtight containers.
Can I add veggies?
Totally. Diced bell pepper or corn would be great mixed in.
Is this spicy?
Nope—but feel free to add hot sauce or jalapeños if you like heat.
✨ Final Bite
This Kielbasa and Cornbread Casserole is a one-dish wonder that hits every comfort food note—savory, cheesy, warm, and filling. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and cozy enough for a Sunday dinner. Let me know if you try it and what you pair it with! 💛🌽🧀