Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Corn Casserole is a game changer. It boasts a luscious combination of sweet corn, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re bringing it to a holiday feast or simply jazzing up a weeknight dinner, this dish manages to steal the spotlight with its irresistible warmth and rich flavor, making it a beloved classic you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Corn Casserole starts with straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack so much flavor and texture without any complicated steps. Each component plays a crucial role, from the sweet corn’s natural juiciness to the cornbread mix’s tender crumb, creating a perfect harmony in every bite.
- Sweet corn (2 cans, drained): Provides the dish’s signature sweetness and fresh corn flavor.
- Cream-style corn (1 can): Adds creamy moisture that helps bind the casserole together.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Infuses richness and slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Enhances the savory depth and keeps the casserole moist.
- Cornbread mix (1 box, 8.5 oz): Creates the fluffy, golden base with just the right amount of crumb.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey pockets of flavor that elevate every forkful.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): Adds a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the individual flavors.
How to Make Easy Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly into a magnificent golden crown that’s just waiting to be devoured.
Step 2: Combine the Corn and Creamy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mix the drained sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir these together until they form a creamy, inviting base that promises a perfect balance of moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cornbread Mix
Gently stir in the cornbread mix until everything is just combined. Overmixing can make your casserole dense, so a light hand here keeps things fluffy and tender.
Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Onions
Next, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and, if you’re feeling adventurous, the chopped green onions. These ingredients add wonderful bursts of sharpness and freshness to each serving. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the top has a glorious golden-brown crust and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to settle and cool slightly. This resting time helps it set up beautifully for serving, making each slice clean and perfect.
Step 7: Optional Flavor Boost
Feel free to customize your Easy Corn Casserole by stirring in garlic powder, paprika, or even diced jalapeños for a spicy pop that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Easy Corn Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional green onions on top adds a vibrant touch. You can even dust a little smoked paprika for color and subtle flavor, transforming this humble dish into a plateworthy presentation.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a fresh, crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s the perfect companion to any hearty mains, providing a sweet and savory complement that guests will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve the casserole in small individual ramekins for personal portions? It’s an elegant way to highlight this crowd-pleaser, especially at dinner parties or holiday gatherings, making your guests feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Easy Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to savor every last delicious bite without worrying about it losing its moist, rich texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole to enjoy later. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to two months, making it a great freezer-friendly dish for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, bake in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring if possible, to maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and gooey cheese.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels can add a wonderful, natural sweetness and texture. The trick is to cook them briefly before mixing to ensure they’re tender and they release their natural juices into the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out sour cream for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based butter substitute. Using a dairy-free cheese will keep that signature cheesy flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How spicy can I make Easy Corn Casserole?
Feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you love some heat. Just mix carefully if serving to guests, so everyone can adjust the spice level when serving.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Doubling everything and using a larger baking dish will allow you to serve more hungry appetites. Keep the baking time about the same, but start checking doneness with a toothpick after 45 minutes.
What if I want to add bacon or other meats?
Crispy bacon bits or cooked sausage can be folded into the casserole before baking to boost the savory profile. It adds a smoky dimension that pairs beautifully with the sweet and cheesy base.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Corn Casserole is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and cheesy that never fails to satisfy. Its effortless preparation and comforting flavors make it a kitchen staple you’ll reach for over and over. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon wonder how you ever celebrated without it!
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Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Corn Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for any meal. Combining sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, melted butter, and cornbread mix, it bakes to a golden perfection with a rich, moist texture. Topped with cheddar cheese and optional green onions, it adds a flavorful twist to traditional cornbread casseroles. Ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans sweet corn (15 oz each, drained)
- 1 can cream-style corn (15 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional spices: garlic powder, paprika, diced jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Combine the corn and dairy: In a large mixing bowl, mix the drained sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter until fully combined, creating a creamy base.
- Add cornbread mix: Gently stir in the cornbread mix until just blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the casserole light and tender.
- Incorporate cheese and onions: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions if using. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Prepare for baking: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture inside, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize flavors: For enhanced taste, feel free to add spices such as garlic powder or paprika, or mix in diced jalapeños for some heat before baking.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- For a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- Leftovers can be frozen for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (about 3/4 cup)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: corn casserole, easy cornbread casserole, cheesy corn bake, sweet corn casserole, baked cornbread dish, holiday side dish
