Corn casserole is a warm and fluffy dish that’s a hit at any meal! Made with sweet corn, creamy ingredients, and a touch of cheese, it’s comfort food at its best.
Honestly, this dish is so easy to make that you might find yourself whipping it up just for a snack! I love how it pairs well with grilled meats or just on its own for that sweet corn goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Kernel Corn: This adds a great texture to your casserole. If you don’t have canned corn, fresh or frozen corn works well too! Just make sure to cook frozen corn first to avoid excess water.
Cream-Style Corn: This gives the casserole its creamy base. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try using low-fat cream of corn or substitute with pureed beans for a different flavor.
Sour Cream: Adds richness and tang. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a fantastic substitute while adding extra protein!
Corn Muffin Mix: I like using Jiffy because it’s convenient, but you can easily use homemade corn muffin mix. Just combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt!
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for extra flavor, but Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack adds a nice kick! Or skip the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
Why Should I Avoid Overmixing?
Mixing your ingredients too much can lead to a dense casserole instead of a light and fluffy one. The key is to mix until just combined, allowing some lumps to remain. This technique helps maintain the light texture that makes corn casserole so delightful!
- Combine wet ingredients first, then gently fold in the corn muffin mix.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix every few strokes, and check for dry pockets of muffin mix.
- Let the mixture sit for a minute if possible; it will puff up in the oven!
Delicious Corn Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This corn casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour of cooking time, plus a few minutes for it to cool before serving. It’s a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until well combined. This creates a creamy base for your casserole!
3. Add the Corn Muffin Mix:
Next, sprinkle the corn muffin mix into your bowl of wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix—you want it to be light and fluffy!
4. Season and Pour:
Now, if you like, add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking.
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you want a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. It’s optional, but it adds a delicious cheesy crust!
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once finished, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit more, making it easier to scoop. Enjoy it warm as a wonderful side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the casserole to prevent it from being watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. For the butter, use a plant-based butter or olive oil to keep it dairy-free while still achieving a creamy texture.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in sautéed onions, green peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor. You can also add cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Corn Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.