If you’re searching for the perfect comfort food side dish, this Corn Casserole is the answer to your prayers. It’s creamy, cheesy, and delightfully golden—a dish that always disappears fast at family gatherings and holiday feasts. Combining the natural sweetness of corn with the tangy richness of sour cream and the savory punch of cheddar, this casserole manages to feel both nostalgic and excitingly new. Whether you’re an old pro or making Corn Casserole for the very first time, you’ll fall in love with its simplicity and crowd-pleasing charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of pantry staples and fresh flavors to create this cozy casserole. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from building flavor to creating that irresistible, tender texture people crave.
- Whole kernel corn (1 can, 15 ounces): Adds juicy, flavorful bites and a pop of sunshine color throughout the casserole.
- Creamed corn (1 can, 15 ounces): Brings all the creamy sweetness that makes this dish so crave-worthy.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Gives the casserole its signature creamy texture and just the right hint of tang.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Makes every bite luscious and ties all of the ingredients together beautifully.
- Cornbread mix (1 box, 8.5 ounces): The secret to a fluffy, tender, almost soufflé-like base—simply stir it in.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): The melty, savory finish that forms a glorious golden crust no one can resist.
How to Make Corn Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps your Corn Casserole from sticking and ensures every serving comes out clean and pretty.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add your drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir everything together until smooth and well-blended. This creamy, corn-flecked mixture is the heart of the casserole, delivering both moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Add Cornbread Mix
Pour the cornbread mix into your bowl. Stir gently until everything just comes together—overmixing will make the final texture less fluffy, so be kind! This mix gives the casserole its signature bready structure while keeping things tender.
Step 4: Spread and Bake
Scrape every bit of your luscious mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Slide it into the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is just kissed with golden color.
Step 5: Cheese Topping and Final Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot casserole. Return it to the oven for just 5 more minutes—just enough time for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, irresistible layer on top.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After baking, let the Corn Casserole rest for at least 5 minutes. This settles the casserole, making it easier to serve and even more flavorful as it cools just slightly before you dig in.
How to Serve Corn Casserole
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Top your Corn Casserole with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of paprika, or even some fresh chopped cilantro to add color and a bright finish. If you’re feeling extra, a handful of crumbled bacon or sliced jalapeños brings even more depth and excitement.
Side Dishes
There’s almost nothing this casserole doesn’t love alongside it. Try pairing it with roast turkey, glazed ham, or juicy barbecue chicken for a major comfort food moment. On holiday tables, it fits right in next to stuffing, mashed potatoes, or crisp green beans.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, bake your Corn Casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings, or cut it into squares for a modern potluck presentation. Turn it into a main course by adding cooked sausage or spicy chorizo, or build a Tex-Mex brunch by topping portions with fried eggs and salsa.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Corn Casserole keeps surprisingly well in the refrigerator. Simply cover the dish with foil or transfer servings to an airtight container, and store for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen, making reheated slices just as satisfying as the first day.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze Corn Casserole! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or freeze individual portions in airtight containers. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To revive leftover Corn Casserole, simply cover it with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick fix, individual servings can also be microwaved on medium power—just be careful not to let it dry out. Sprinkle with a bit more cheese if you want to refresh that gooey topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked corn kernels or thawed frozen corn are great substitutes for the canned whole kernel corn. Just be sure to match the volume and drain any excess moisture so the casserole doesn’t become too wet.
Is Corn Casserole gluten-free?
As written, this recipe isn’t gluten-free because of the standard cornbread mix. However, you can swap in a gluten-free cornbread mix without any changes to the other ingredients and enjoy a gluten-free Corn Casserole.
Can I make Corn Casserole ahead of time?
Yes—you can assemble everything up to a day ahead and refrigerate the unbaked casserole, covered. Simply let it warm at room temperature for 20–30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as usual. This makes holiday prep so much easier!
What proteins can I add to make it a main dish?
If you’d like to make Corn Casserole into a meal, mix in cooked, crumbled bacon, chopped ham, cooked sausage, or even diced roasted chicken before baking. It turns an already hearty side dish into a fantastic one-pan supper.
How do I know when my Corn Casserole is finished baking?
Look for a center that’s set (not jiggly) and a top that’s pale gold and slightly puffed. If you insert a toothpick into the middle, it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but not wet. That’s when it’s ready for the layer of melted cheese!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Corn Casserole enough—once you try it, I know it’ll become a beloved staple for gatherings big and small. It’s easy, reliable, and always devoured by family and friends. Give it a try, and let its homey, cheesy goodness bring warmth to your table!
Print
Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Corn Casserole is a comforting and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, butter, cornbread mix, and cheddar cheese, this easy-to-make casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and cornbread mix. Stir until everything is just combined.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Add cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add diced jalapeños or green chilies.
- You can also mix in crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for a savory twist.
- This dish makes a great holiday side and pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or barbecue.
