Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe

Of all the dishes that grace our family’s holiday table, from the magnificent roast turkey to the decadent pecan pie, there is one humble side dish that consistently vanishes first. It’s not the fanciest, nor is it the most complex, but this Corn Casserole is, without a doubt, the unsung hero of every gathering. The first time I made it, I was skeptical. How could something so simple, with ingredients I already had in my pantry, be so good? But when I pulled that bubbling, golden-brown casserole from the oven, the aroma alone told me I was onto something special. My kids, who usually approach new foods with caution, took one bite and their eyes widened. My husband, a man of few words, simply said, “You’re making this for every Thanksgiving from now on, right?” He was right. It’s the perfect harmony of sweet and savory; a creamy, souffle-like texture that’s part pudding, part cornbread, and all comfort. It has become our most requested potluck contribution and the dish that truly signals the start of the festive season in our home. This recipe isn’t just a collection of ingredients; it’s a vessel for memories, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the easiest, most delicious secret weapon in my culinary arsenal.

The Ultimate Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe

This recipe is the classic, time-tested version that has been beloved for generations. It relies on pantry staples to create a dish that is wonderfully moist, sweet, and savory. It’s the perfect starting point for what will surely become your own family’s tradition.

Ingredients:

• 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
• 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (14.75 ounces) creamed corn, undrained
• 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
• 1/2 cup (1 stick or 4 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt (optional, as the mix and canned goods contain salt)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Corn Casserole

Following these detailed instructions will ensure your corn casserole turns out perfectly fluffy, moist, and delicious every single time. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, so don’t be intimidated!

Step 1: Preparation is Key

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step for any baking recipe, as an accurately heated oven ensures the casserole cooks evenly from the edges to the center. While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish. A 9×9 inch square baking pan or a 2-quart casserole dish is the ideal size. Generously grease the dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking, making serving a clean and effortless process.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, you’ll begin by creating the creamy base of the casserole. Combine the can of undrained creamed corn, the full cup of sour cream, the half-cup of melted butter, and the two lightly beaten eggs. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and fully incorporated. Ensuring the eggs are well-mixed into the base is what gives the casserole its lovely, souffle-like lift and custard-like texture. Using room temperature sour cream and eggs can help everything combine more smoothly, but it’s not a deal-breaker if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry and Solid Ingredients

Once your wet mixture is smooth, it’s time to add the remaining components. Pour the entire box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix into the bowl. Add the drained can of whole kernel corn, a half-cup of your shredded cheddar cheese (reserving the other half for the topping), and the black pepper. Using a spatula or a large spoon, gently fold everything together. The key here is to mix only until the ingredients are just combined. You will see some small lumps from the muffin mix, and that is perfectly okay! Over-mixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher, denser casserole rather than the light, tender texture we’re aiming for.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking dish and use the spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining half-cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create a delicious, golden, and slightly crispy cheese crust that provides a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy interior.

Place the casserole dish on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and pulling away slightly from the sides of the dish, and the center is set. A great way to test for doneness is to insert a toothpick or a knife into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.

Step 5: The All-Important Rest

This final step is one that many home cooks skip, but it is vital for the perfect casserole. Once you remove the corn casserole from the oven, let it rest on a wire rack for at least 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set up completely. If you cut into it immediately, it may be too loose and fall apart. Resting ensures that each slice holds its shape, making for a much prettier presentation and a more cohesive texture.

Nutrition Facts

Please note that these nutritional values are an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-420 kcal (when made with cheese)

Preparation Time

This is one of the quickest side dishes you can whip up, making it perfect for busy holidays or weeknight dinners.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
• Total Time: 55-65 minutes

How to Serve Your Delicious Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of main courses and cuisines. Here are some fantastic ways to serve it:

• The Holiday Feast Centerpiece: This is its natural habitat! Serve it alongside:
  • Roast Turkey or Chicken
  • Glazed Ham
  • Roast Beef or Prime Rib
  • Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
  • Green Bean Casserole
  • Cranberry Sauce
• Summer BBQ and Potluck Star: Its sweet flavor profile is a perfect match for smoky, grilled foods.
  • Pulled Pork or Beef Brisket
  • BBQ Ribs
  • Grilled Chicken Breasts
  • Burgers and Hot Dogs
  • Coleslaw and Potato Salad
• Cozy Weeknight Comfort Food: It can easily be part of a simple, comforting meal.
  • Serve alongside a hearty chili or soup.
  • Pair with pork chops and applesauce.
  • Enjoy it as a light lunch with a side salad.
• Elevate with Garnishes: A simple garnish can make this humble casserole look restaurant-worthy.
  • Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh chives or parsley add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  • A Little Heat: Thinly sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper on top before baking.
  • Extra Savory: Crumbled cooked bacon or crispy fried onions sprinkled on top after baking.
  • A Dollop of Cream: A small spoonful of sour cream or crème fraîche on each serving adds extra richness.

Additional Tips for Casserole Success

Master this recipe with a few pro tips that will elevate your corn casserole from great to unforgettable.

1. Don’t Over-mix the Batter: This is the most critical tip for achieving the perfect texture. When you combine the Jiffy mix with the wet ingredients, fold them together gently with a spatula just until the flour streaks disappear. A few small lumps are not only acceptable but desirable. Over-mixing will lead to a dense, tough, and dry casserole instead of the light, spoon-bread texture you want.
2. Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature: While not strictly necessary in a pinch, allowing your eggs and sour cream to sit out on the counter for about 30 minutes before mixing can yield a superior result. Room temperature ingredients emulsify and combine more easily, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This promotes even baking and a more tender final product.
3. Get Creative with Cheese: The recipe calls for sharp cheddar, which provides a nice, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the corn. However, feel free to experiment! A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar will be meltier. Pepper Jack will add a spicy kick. Smoked Gouda or Gruyère can lend a sophisticated, nutty flavor. You can even stir in a bit of cream cheese along with the sour cream for an ultra-rich and tangy version.
4. Master the Make-Ahead: This dish is a lifesaver for busy holiday cooking. You can fully assemble the entire casserole (without the final cheese topping) in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes while the oven preheats, then add the cheese topping and bake as directed. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting from a colder temperature.
5. Double the Recipe with Confidence: This casserole is so popular, you’ll often find yourself needing to make a double batch for a large crowd. It doubles perfectly! Simply double all the ingredients and bake it in a larger 9×13 inch baking dish. The baking time will be very similar, perhaps needing an additional 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it and use the toothpick test to check for doneness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making corn casserole.

1. I don’t have a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix. What can I use as a substitute?

No Jiffy mix, no problem! You can easily make your own dry mix substitute. In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients: 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Use this mixture in place of the Jiffy box and proceed with the recipe as written. This substitution works beautifully and allows you to control the sugar and salt levels more precisely.

2. Can I make this corn casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is one of the best features of this recipe. You can prepare it in two ways. Option 1 (Refrigerate Unbaked): Assemble the entire casserole as directed in your baking dish, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the total cook time. Option 2 (Bake and Reheat): You can also bake the casserole completely, let it cool, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Can I freeze corn casserole?

Yes, it freezes surprisingly well! Bake the casserole as directed and allow it to cool completely. You can freeze it whole in its freezer-safe baking dish (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil) or cut it into individual portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, bake uncovered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

4. How do I know for sure when my corn casserole is done baking?

There are a few key visual and physical cues to look for. The casserole should be a beautiful golden brown color on top and around the edges. The edges will also start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan. The most reliable method is the toothpick test. Insert a wooden toothpick or a thin knife into the very center of the casserole. If it comes out with wet, liquid batter on it, it needs more time. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist, cooked crumbs clinging to it, it’s done. The center should be set and not jiggle excessively when you gently shake the pan.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. The key is to substitute the Jiffy mix. Look for a gluten-free corn muffin mix (brands like Krusteaz or Bob’s Red Mill offer great options) and use it as a 1:1 replacement for the Jiffy mix. Ensure the brand you choose is a similar size (around 8.5 ounces). All other ingredients in the classic recipe—corn, sour cream, butter, eggs, cheese—are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always wise to double-check labels to ensure there is no cross-contamination if you are cooking for someone with a severe allergy or Celiac disease. The rest of the recipe instructions remain the same.

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