If you’ve never tried corn casserole, you’re in for a real treat! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate – it’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of sweet from the corn. I whip it up for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner at home. It’s super easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginner cooks or anyone who wants a delicious side dish without the fuss. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a family favorite! Everyone loves it, from the little ones to the grown-ups, and it pairs wonderfully with just about anything. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious corn casserole together!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious corn casserole:
- 2 cans of corn, drained
- 1 can of cream-style corn
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of butter, melted
- 1 package of Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the wonderful flavors of this dish. Trust me, you’ll want to use real butter and freshly shredded cheese for the best taste!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your corn casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown top. While the oven warms up, you can get everything else ready. It’s like setting the stage for a fantastic performance!
Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the two cans of drained corn, the can of cream-style corn, a cup of sour cream, and the melted butter. Now, this is where the magic begins! Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want to see those bright yellow corn kernels all mixed up with the creamy goodness. It should look inviting and delicious already!
Add the Muffin Mix
Next, it’s time to add the Jiffy corn muffin mix. Sprinkle it right on top of your corn mixture and gently stir it in. Don’t worry if it seems a little thick; that’s just the mix doing its job! Keep stirring until you don’t see any dry spots. This is where the casserole starts to come together, and you can almost taste that sweet, corny flavor already!
Incorporate the Cheese
Now, let’s fold in that shredded cheddar cheese. I love this part because it adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Gently mix the cheese into the batter using your spatula, being careful not to over-mix. You want those cheesy pockets to surprise you in every bite! And trust me, the more cheese, the better!
Prepare for Baking
Once everything is well combined, it’s time to pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it bakes uniformly. You can use a spatula to smooth the top. This dish is going to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, so get ready for the compliments!
Bake the Casserole
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you’re like me, you might peek in a few times just to savor that delicious smell wafting through your home!
Cool and Serve
Once it’s baked to perfection, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but this step is key for letting the flavors settle and the texture to firm up a bit. After a short wait, scoop out a generous portion and enjoy this comforting corn casserole with your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this corn casserole is perfect for beginner cooks!
- Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a family potluck or a holiday feast, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly.
- Loved by kids and adults: The creamy, cheesy goodness is a hit with everyone, making it a go-to side dish for all ages.
- Vegetarian-friendly: This casserole is a delicious option that fits perfectly into vegetarian meal plans, so everyone can enjoy it.
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Add your favorite ingredients like diced jalapeños or even crumbled bacon to make it your own.
Tips for Success
To ensure your corn casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some practical tips that I swear by:
- Drain the corn well: Make sure to drain both cans of corn thoroughly before mixing. Excess moisture can turn your casserole into a soggy mess, and nobody wants that!
- Experiment with add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Diced jalapeños add a nice kick, or you could throw in some cooked bacon for a smoky flavor. Just remember to keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind!
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh ingredients, especially for the cheese. Freshly shredded cheddar melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Don’t skip the cooling time: Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely. It’ll slice better and hold its shape, making for a prettier presentation on your table!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a corn casserole that’ll impress everyone at the table!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this delightful corn casserole. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 6g
This comforting side dish packs a flavorful punch while still being a relatively light option. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s hard to believe it’s vegetarian-friendly! Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing it’s also a satisfying addition to your meal.
FAQ Section
Got questions about corn casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my best answers to help you along the way:
Can I make this corn casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix everything together and pour it into your greased baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Jiffy corn muffin mix?
If you can’t find Jiffy corn muffin mix, no worries! You can make a simple substitute by combining 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix this with equal parts flour to get a similar consistency. It’ll work just as well!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze corn casserole?
You sure can! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should be good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I serve with corn casserole?
This corn casserole pairs well with so many things! I love serving it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also fantastic as part of a holiday meal. Get creative with your pairings!
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out. I’m always here to help you make the best corn casserole possible!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this delicious corn casserole, it’s time to think about what to serve it with! This dish is so versatile that it can complement a wide range of flavors. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions that will turn a simple meal into a delightful feast:
- Grilled Meats: Corn casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or pork. The smoky char from the grill enhances the sweetness of the corn, making for a delicious combination!
- Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect balance to the creamy casserole. You can toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra freshness!
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve your corn casserole alongside a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. The earthy flavors of the veggies complement the sweetness of the corn.
- Chili or Stews: For a heartier meal, pair it with a warm bowl of chili or beef stew. The richness of the stew contrasts wonderfully with the light, fluffy texture of the corn casserole.
- BBQ Dishes: If you’re hosting a BBQ, serve the corn casserole with ribs, pulled pork, or burgers. It’s a great addition to any outdoor gathering and will surely be a hit!
Whatever you choose to serve alongside your corn casserole, it’s bound to elevate your meal and impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings and have fun with it!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of corn, you can check out this article.
To learn more about the versatility of corn in cooking, visit Food Network’s guide.
Print
Corn Casserole: 5 Steps to a Delicious Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious corn casserole that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of corn, drained
- 1 can of cream-style corn
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of butter, melted
- 1 package of Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the drained corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter.
- Add the Jiffy corn muffin mix to the bowl and stir until combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the canned corn well to avoid excess moisture.
- For a twist, add diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: corn casserole, easy recipe, side dish
