Corn Casserole Side Dish has always been a staple at my family gatherings, especially around the holidays. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the aroma of sweet corn and melted butter, a smell that instantly brings me back to simpler times. This creamy corn bake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting classic that everyone adores. It’s truly the ultimate easy corn casserole for family dinners. My version, inspired by hers, promises to be just as delicious and straightforward. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole Side Dish
I know you’ll absolutely adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s quickly become a favorite in my home, and I’m sure it will in yours too!
- It boasts an irresistible creamy and sweet flavor that complements almost any main course.
- The prep time is minimal, making this an incredibly easy corn casserole recipe for busy weeknights.
- It’s a fantastic way to get more vegetables onto the dinner table in a delicious format.
- This simple corn casserole is budget-friendly, using common ingredients you likely already have.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings alike.
- This easy corn casserole recipe is truly versatile and pairs well with a variety of meals.
Ingredients for Corn Casserole Side Dish
To create this delightful Corn Casserole Side Dish, you won’t need a long list of exotic items. I’ve found that simple, good quality ingredients are all it takes to make a truly memorable creamy corn bake. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring you get that perfect sweet corn pudding texture and flavor with ease.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained – I always make sure these are well-drained to prevent a watery casserole.
- 1 can (15 ounces) cream-style corn – This is the secret to that luscious, sweet corn pudding consistency.
- 1 cup sour cream – Adds a wonderful tang and extra creaminess that really elevates the dish.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted – I prefer unsalted butter here, so I can control the saltiness myself.
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix – This acts as both a binder and adds a fantastic, subtle cornbread flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – For those who love a cheesy corn casserole, this addition is a game-changer!
How to Make Corn Casserole Side Dish
Making this comforting Corn Casserole Side Dish is incredibly simple, even for beginner cooks. I promise, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma!
- Step 1: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly ready for baking. Then, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I find a little non-stick spray works wonders here for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of well-drained whole kernel corn, the can of cream-style corn, the sour cream, and the melted butter. Stir all these wet ingredients together thoroughly. You’ll notice the mixture start to look wonderfully creamy.
- Step 3: Now, add the box of Jiffy corn muffin mix to the bowl. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here; a few lumps are totally fine and help keep the casserole tender. If you’re making a cheesy corn casserole, this is the perfect time to gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 4: Pour the entire corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures even cooking and that beautiful golden-brown top.
- Step 5: Place the dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the Corn Casserole Side Dish is beautifully golden brown on top and set in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. The smell as it bakes is absolutely heavenly, a true sign of homemade corn casserole instructions at their best!
- Step 6: Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Let the hot casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your warm, delicious homemade corn casserole!
Pro Tips for the Best Corn Casserole Side Dish
I’ve made this Corn Casserole Side Dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that guarantee perfect results every single time. These simple tips will elevate your corn casserole from good to absolutely amazing, making it a standout side at any meal.
- Always use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. It makes a significant difference.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the Jiffy mix is added; gentle stirring prevents a tough or dry casserole.
- Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set up beautifully and makes serving much easier.
- Consider adding a pinch of sugar if your corn isn’t naturally sweet enough, especially if using frozen corn.
What’s the secret to perfect Corn Casserole Side Dish?
The real secret lies in the combination of creamed corn and sour cream, paired with the Jiffy mix. This creates an unparalleled moistness and a slightly sweet, savory profile that everyone adores. It’s truly the best corn casserole for Thanksgiving, consistently receiving rave reviews.
Can I make Corn Casserole Side Dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Corn Casserole Side Dish mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Corn Casserole Side Dish?
To avoid a dry casserole, don’t overbake it; pull it out when it’s just set. Another common mistake is overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture. Gently fold ingredients until just combined. Using well-drained whole kernel corn prevents a watery bottom layer.
Best Ways to Serve Corn Casserole Side Dish
This delightful Corn Casserole Side Dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a wide array of meals. I love serving it as a comforting accompaniment to a classic roasted chicken or a juicy ham. Its creamy sweetness provides a perfect balance to savory main courses, making every bite a treat.
For a complete holiday feast, I often include this alongside green bean casserole and mashed potatoes; it’s a brilliant addition to any spread. It also shines next to grilled meats like barbecue ribs or pork chops for a casual dinner. When thinking of side dish recipes with corn, this one truly stands out as a crowd-pleaser that complements almost anything you put on the table.
Nutrition Facts for Corn Casserole Side Dish
I find it helpful to know the nutritional breakdown of my favorite dishes, and this comforting Corn Casserole Side Dish is no exception. Based on an 8-serving recipe, here’s an estimate of what each delicious portion provides:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and precise measurements of ingredients used in your homemade corn casserole.
How to Store and Reheat Corn Casserole Side Dish
One of the best things about this Corn Casserole Side Dish is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can make it watery.
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Corn Casserole Side Dish to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic quick corn casserole for potluck preparation!
To reheat from the fridge, simply microwave individual servings until warm, or bake the covered casserole at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then follow the same baking instructions. It tastes just as good the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Corn Casserole Side Dish
What is corn casserole made of?
A classic Corn Casserole Side Dish is typically made from a delightful combination of whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, melted butter, and a corn muffin mix (like Jiffy). Many recipes, including mine, also incorporate shredded cheddar cheese for a delicious cheesy corn casserole. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful blend that creates a creamy, slightly sweet, and savory dish.
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! While canned corn is convenient, you can certainly use fresh or frozen corn for your Corn Casserole Side Dish. If using fresh, you’ll need about 4-5 ears of corn, cut from the cob. For frozen corn, use about 3 cups. Just be sure to thaw and drain frozen corn thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
Why is corn casserole so popular?
The popularity of Corn Casserole Side Dish comes from its irresistible taste, ease of preparation, and versatility. It offers a creamy, sweet, and savory flavor profile that appeals to nearly everyone, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a simple corn casserole to prepare, often requiring minimal ingredients and effort, which makes it perfect for busy holidays and potlucks. It’s also incredibly comforting, bringing a taste of home to any meal.
Can I make a dairy-free version of this Corn Casserole Side Dish?
Yes, you can adapt this Corn Casserole Side Dish to be dairy-free! You would substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free sour cream alternative, use a plant-based butter, and ensure your corn muffin mix is dairy-free. If adding cheese, opt for a dairy-free shredded cheddar. The texture and flavor will be very similar, still delivering that beloved creamy corn bake experience.
Variations of Corn Casserole Side Dish You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Corn Casserole Side Dish, you might be tempted to experiment with some delightful variations. I love how adaptable this recipe is, allowing you to tailor it to different tastes or dietary needs. It’s easy to put your own spin on this comforting side.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, try adding a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. It adds a wonderful warmth without overpowering the sweet corn flavor.
- Cream Cheese Delight: If you’re a fan of extra richness, stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with the sour cream. This creates an even more decadent and creamy corn bake.
- Cheesy Corn Casserole Side Dish: Beyond just cheddar, experiment with different cheeses! A blend of Monterey Jack and Colby, or even a little Parmesan, can elevate the savory notes beautifully.
- Bacon Bliss: Crumbled cooked bacon bits folded into the batter or sprinkled on top before baking adds a smoky, salty crunch that is absolutely irresistible.
Corn Casserole Side Dish: 1 Sacred Family Recipe
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy corn bake recipe is a simple and delicious side dish, perfect for any meal. It features a blend of sweet corn, a creamy sauce, and often a hint of cheese, making it a popular choice for gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) cream-style corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for cheesy corn casserole)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish for your easy corn casserole.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are incorporated for this sweet corn pudding.
- Stir in the Jiffy corn muffin mix until just combined. Do not overmix. If making a cheesy corn casserole, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese now.
- Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the corn casserole is golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Let the baked corn dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade corn casserole!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of sugar or a dash of hot sauce to the corn casserole mixture.
- Leftover corn casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This side dish recipes with corn can be easily doubled for larger gatherings or a potluck.
- Consider adding chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor and garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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