Corn casserole is a warm and comforting dish made with sweet corn, creamy ingredients, and a touch of cornbread mix. It’s like a hug in a dish that everyone will love!
This easy-to-make casserole is perfect as a side at dinner or a potluck. I love how it fills the kitchen with a delicious smell while baking. You really can’t go wrong with corn goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Kernel Corn: This gives the dish a nice texture. If you want to lower sodium, choose low-sodium canned corn or use freshly cooked corn off the cob.
Cream-Style Corn: This adds creaminess. You could blend regular corn with a bit of cream or milk if you prefer a homemade version.
Sour Cream: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well here. It offers a similar tang but is slightly healthier.
Unsalted Butter: You can use olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile or to make it dairy-free.
Cornmeal or Cornbread Mix: Yellow cornmeal is traditional, but you can also use Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix or even pancake mix in a pinch!
How Do I Ensure My Corn Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
Baking this corn casserole to perfection is vital for the right texture. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Don’t Rush the Mixing: Ensure your ingredients are well-combined, especially the wet mix with the dry ingredients. This helps the batter to rise evenly.
- Check Doneness: Before taking it out, do the knife test—insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean if the casserole is done.
- Cooling Time: Letting it cool for 5-10 minutes helps it set up and makes it easier to serve. Otherwise, it might be too soft to cut nicely.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful corn casserole! It’s a cozy dish everyone will love!
Delicious Corn Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal or cornbread mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This corn casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-55 minutes to bake. You’ll have a comforting and delicious dish ready in about an hour! Plus, it’s great for making ahead and reheating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish (or similar) and grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Canned Cores:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained whole kernel corn and the cream-style corn. Give them a good stir to combine, making sure both kinds of corn are evenly distributed.
3. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Add the sour cream, melted butter, and eggs to your corn mixture. Mix well until everything is nicely combined and smooth—this will create a rich base for your casserole.
4. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornmeal (or cornbread mix), sugar (if you’re using it), baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents in your batter.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet corn mixture. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix—just blend until smooth!
6. Pour into Baking Dish:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to make it even. This helps the casserole bake evenly and look great!
7. Bake it Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The casserole should be golden brown on top, and when you insert a knife in the center, it should come out clean.
8. Let it Cool:
Once it’s finished baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This little rest helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
Enjoy this creamy, slightly sweet corn casserole as a fantastic side dish for any meal, especially during holidays and family gatherings!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! You can use frozen corn instead of canned. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before mixing it into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Corn Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for More Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like shredded cheese, diced jalapeños for spice, or even crumbled bacon for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture they might add.
