Corn Casserole is that perfect, cozy side dish everyone hopes will show up at the table when comfort food is in order. It’s a creamy, golden bake with sweet pops of corn, hints of savory richness, and a tender, almost soufflé-like texture that can easily win over any crowd. Whether you’re gathering around the holiday table, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something that makes any weeknight feel like a celebration, this classic is always the answer—and it requires barely any effort to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll whip up a deeply satisfying, heartwarming favorite that keeps friends and family reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how just a few simple ingredients combine to create a dish with big flavor, perfect texture, and that unmistakable golden hue. Each ingredient plays its part, contributing to the creamy, slightly sweet, and beautifully browned Corn Casserole everyone raves about.
- Whole kernel corn (1 can, 15 oz), drained: Sweet bursts of real corn add texture and fresh corn flavor in every bite.
- Creamed corn (1 can, 15 oz): This gives the casserole its creamy, almost pudding-like consistency, adding moisture and subtle sweetness.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and creaminess, making every slice melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Rich, buttery flavor runs through the whole dish and helps create a golden surface.
- Jiffy corn muffin mix (1 box, 8.5 oz): The secret shortcut — this mix binds everything together and provides that iconic cornbread flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients while helping the casserole puff up just right.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness of the corn and heightens the savoriness.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a touch of gentle heat and rounds out the flavor.
How to Make Corn Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—the ideal temperature for a fluffy, golden-brown crust. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This step makes serving and cleaning up so easy.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, corn muffin mix, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir—just until it’s smooth and there are no dry streaks. The mixture will look thick but creamy, dotted with pieces of corn.
Step 3: Pour and Smooth
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. You want it smooth across the top so it bakes evenly and looks enticing when it’s time to serve.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish onto the oven rack and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the center will be just set (a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs). That tempting aroma wafting through your kitchen? That’s pure Corn Casserole magic.
Step 5: Let It Cool, Then Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This brief wait helps the dish firm up so you get perfect, creamy slices that hold together but still melt in your mouth.
How to Serve Corn Casserole
Garnishes
Sprinkle on a little chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color, or shower crispy fried onions on top just before serving for a savory crunch. For an extra cheesy twist, top with shredded cheddar as soon as the casserole comes out of the oven so it melts right over the surface.
Side Dishes
Corn Casserole loves to be the star beside all your favorite mains: think roast chicken, glazed ham, smoky barbecue, or a fall-apart pot roast. It’s also equally at home nestled between mashed potatoes, green beans, and a leafy green salad, turning a regular meal into something truly memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins—people love having their own mini portion. Or cut hearty, square pieces and serve on a big platter lined with colorful slaw for a party-ready vibe. For weeknights, just serve it straight out of the dish and let everyone dig in family style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the Corn Casserole cools, cover the dish tightly or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, tasting just as creamy and luscious when reheated.
Freezing
Want to get ahead? Simply let the baked and cooled casserole come to room temperature, then wrap it well or portion into freezer-safe containers. It freezes perfectly for up to 2 months—just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Corn Casserole in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). Individual servings can be microwaved in a pinch; just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring gently between bursts to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I make Corn Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix up the batter the night before and bake it fresh the day you need it, or bake it completely and warm before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining.
Does this recipe work with homemade cornbread mix?
Yes, if you don’t have Jiffy mix on hand, you can use your own cornbread mix—just aim for about 8.5 ounces and add a touch of sugar and baking powder if your mix isn’t sweetened or leavened already.
How can I make the casserole spicier?
You can add 1/2 cup chopped green chiles (canned or fresh), a dash of cayenne, or even diced jalapeño to give it a kick! It pairs beautifully with the creamy, mellow base of the Corn Casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
With a few swaps, yes! Use your favorite dairy-free butter, plant-based sour cream, and check that your cornbread mix is dairy-free. The texture changes slightly, but the flavor is still comforting and delicious.
Can I add cheese or other mix-ins?
Definitely—stir in a cup of shredded cheddar for a gooey, cheesy layer, or fold in cooked, crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or herbs for a personal twist that takes Corn Casserole to the next level.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for that side dish that always brings smiles to the table, Corn Casserole is truly the one to try. It’s simple, rewarding, and always leaves you wishing you’d made a double batch. Grab your ingredients and prepare for a little slice of comfort—you won’t regret it!
Print
Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hearty and comforting Corn Casserole is a classic side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a combination of whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and Jiffy corn muffin mix, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, corn muffin mix, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and smooth.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool and serve: Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Notes:
- For added flavor, mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or 1/2 cup chopped green chiles.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead and reheated. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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