This Sweet Corn Casserole is creamy, sweet, and oh-so-easy to make! It has tender corn mixed with a rich batter, baked to perfection for a side dish everyone will love.
If you think corn can’t be exciting, wait until you try this! It’s like a warm hug on your plate. I love serving it at family gatherings; it always disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Corn: You’ll want to use a can of whole kernel sweet corn and cream-style corn. The combination adds great texture and sweetness. You can also use frozen corn if you prefer, just thaw it first!
Cornmeal: Yellow cornmeal is key for that classic flavor and texture, but you can swap it with white cornmeal or even polenta if you want a different twist.
Sour Cream: It gives the casserole a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with plain Greek yogurt. It works almost the same!
Butter: I always use unsalted butter for a more controlled flavor, but if you’re out, you can use vegetable oil in a pinch. About a third less than the amount of butter needed should work fine.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor boost. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or try mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick!
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Is Perfectly Baked?
Baking this casserole to perfection can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven: Always start with a preheated oven to ensure even baking.
- Check for doneness: A toothpick inserted should come out clean. If it has wet batter on it, give it a bit more time, checking every 5 minutes.
- Cool before serving: Letting it cool a few minutes helps it set up and makes it easier to serve.
Sweet Corn Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel sweet corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet corn casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 to 55 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes for the whole process. Then, just let it cool a bit before diving in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take your 9×9-inch baking dish and grease it with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mixing the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your drained whole kernel corn and cream-style corn. Then, sprinkle in the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give everything a good stir to combine evenly.
3. Adding Creaminess:
Now, stir in the sour cream, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix well until the batter is smooth and creamy. If you’re feeling cheesy, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for that extra richness.
4. Pouring into the Baking Dish:
Pour the delicious batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
5. Baking to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. It should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Just keep an eye on it towards the end!
6. Cooling and Garnishing:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up a bit. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top for that lovely touch of color and flavor!
7. Serving Up:
Serve this warm and creamy corn casserole as a delightful side dish, perfect for family meals or special occasions. Enjoy every bite!
This sweet corn casserole is creamy and comforting, perfect for holiday dinners or whenever you’re craving a cozy veggie side. Enjoy! 🌽
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using frozen corn, just make sure to thaw it beforehand. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly in the microwave. Drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the batter.
How Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this casserole gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the baking powder you’re using is also gluten-free!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Just mix all the ingredients together and pour them into your greased baking dish. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, making sure it heats through evenly. You can add a splash of milk before reheating to enhance the creamy texture!