This Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole recipe, inspired by Ree Drummond, is a fantastic and flavorful side dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. If you’re new to hominy, like I was before discovering this recipe, you’re in for a treat. It brings a delightful corn tortilla-like taste to this comforting casserole. I’ve adapted the original recipe with a couple of personal touches – especially my love for brown sugar bacon and a cheesy topping instead of breadcrumbs – to make it even more irresistible.
Bacon slices with brown sugar caramelizing in a skillet for Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole
Elevating the Flavor with Brown Sugar Bacon
Let’s talk about the bacon. For this hominy casserole, we’re not just using any bacon; we’re making brown sugar bacon. This simple step adds a layer of sweetness and depth that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the casserole.
Easy Brown Sugar Bacon Instructions:
- Lay bacon slices in a skillet.
- Generously sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes over medium-low heat, then flip the bacon to caramelize the brown sugar side.
- Continue cooking, turning every couple of minutes, until the bacon is cooked to your desired crispness and the sugar is beautifully caramelized, being careful not to burn it.
Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck. Here’s what you’ll need and how to put it all together:
Ingredients:
- Butter, for greasing the pan
- 8 slices bacon, chopped (preferably brown sugar bacon, recipe above)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- One 30-ounce can hominy, drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup half-and-half
- Hot sauce, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or omit for a cheese-only topping)
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole recipe prepared on a kitchen counter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving some bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, sauté the onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the drained and rinsed hominy to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the half-and-half and hot sauce to taste. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the hominy mixture to the greased casserole dish.
- Top with the cooked bacon, grated Cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese (or breadcrumbs if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole baking in a casserole dish in the oven
Close-up of Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole with melted cheese, fresh out of the oven
Cheese Variations and Flavor Enhancements
For a delightful twist, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. I used a combination of sharp cheddar and Swiss cheese I had on hand, which worked wonderfully. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of paprika for color or a dash of chili powder for a subtle kick. The hominy itself lends a unique Mexican-inspired flavor to the dish, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing side.
Serving of Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole on a plate, garnished and ready to eat
A Hominy Casserole That’s Sure to Be a Hit
This Pioneer Woman Hominy Casserole recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and has become a family favorite in my home. Thanks to Ree Drummond for sharing this ranch-style recipe and introducing me to the wonderful world of hominy! It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect as a side or even a light main course. Give it a try and discover your own love for this cheesy, bacon-filled casserole!
