Last Sunday, while flipping through Grandma’s old recipe book, I stumbled upon a treasure: Creamed Corn Casserole. This dish has a special place in my heart and family gatherings, embodying the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. Rich and creamy, it strikes a perfect balance between sweetness from the corn and a satisfying texture from the cornbread mix. What I love most is how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it the ideal side dish for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just need a comforting weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s family-friendly, sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike! Curious about how to make this nostalgic dish your own? Let’s dive in!
Why is Creamed Corn Casserole a Must-Try?
Nostalgic Comfort: This creamy dish evokes memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts, making it a true comfort food classic.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a delightful side dish ready in no time.
Kid-Approved: Its sweetness and rich texture make it appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Versatile Options: Feel free to add your favorite twists, like mixing in crumbled bacon or diced bell peppers, creating a unique flavor every time. Try it alongside our delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a perfect family meal!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare your casserole ahead of time and save time on busy days, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones.
Creamed Corn Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; you can use salted butter but reduce the added salt.
- Frozen Corn – Provides texture and sweetness; fresh or canned corn works too, just adjust the moisture accordingly.
- Creamed Corn – Contributes a creamy texture and rich flavor; consider making your own for a personal touch or use store-bought for convenience.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent to hold everything together; opt for organic eggs for enhanced flavor.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and moisture; swap for Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- Sugar – Enhances sweetness; feel free to reduce or omit for a less sweet dish.
- Coarse Kosher Salt – Balances out flavors; regular table salt can be used, just tweak it to taste.
- Jiffy Cornbread Mix – Provides structure and a crumbly texture; any cornbread mix is fine, but be mindful of extra liquid required.
Optional Add-Ins
- Crumbled Bacon – Adds a savory crunch; try using turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully for extra flavor; cheddar or pepper jack are fantastic choices.
- Diced Bell Peppers or Onions – Introduces a savory element; feel free to sauté them for extra depth.
Let your creamed corn casserole shine as a versatile side dish that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamed Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your creamed corn casserole bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and generously spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring that your dish will come out perfectly when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Then, add 2 cups of frozen corn, 1 can of creamed corn, 2 beaten eggs, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt. Mix these ingredients together until well-blended; you want a smooth consistency where the sweetness of the corn and the tanginess of the sour cream shine through.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cornbread Mix
Next, gently fold in one package (8.5 ounces) of Jiffy cornbread mix into the wet mixture. Stir carefully until no dry pockets remain, ensuring everything is evenly combined. The batter should be thick and creamy, with a hint of sweetness from the corn and a rich foundation from the cornbread mix, ready to create that perfect casserole texture.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly, making sure it covers the bottom completely. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the soft, creamy interior is perfectly set.
Step 5: Let It Cool
Once baked, remove your creamed corn casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the casserole set further and makes it easier to cut into clean squares. The aroma will be irresistible, inviting everyone to gather around and savor this comforting dish together at the dinner table.
Creamed Corn Casserole Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delicious casserole recipe to suit your tastes!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt and use dairy-free butter for a creamy dish everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chopped green chiles to the mix for a zesty twist that brings a little heat. Your taste buds will love the excitement!
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Savory Boost: Mix in finely diced onions or bell peppers for added texture and a savory flavor. These colorful additions make the casserole even more vibrant!
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Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top before baking for an irresistible cheesy crust that pulls everyone in.
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Bacon Lovers: Integrate crumbled cooked bacon into the mixture, adding that smoky essence that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and check your other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free for an inclusive version that still delivers on flavor.
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Sweet Additions: Toss in a handful of chopped pecans or a dash of cinnamon for a sweet twist that complements the corn’s natural sweetness. It’s like dessert on your dinner plate!
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Texture Fun: Incorporate some crispy fried onions on top toward the last few minutes of baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
While you’re exploring variations, think about pairing this creamy casserole with dishes like my Oven Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole for a heartwarming family meal that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamed Corn Casserole is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish on busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 2 days in advance; simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain its rich flavors, store it in an airtight container after assembling. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake as directed, ensuring the edges turn golden brown and the center is set. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamed Corn Casserole
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Avoid Underbaking: Ensure the casserole is fully cooked by checking that the center is firm and the top is slightly golden.
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Mix for Moisture: Don’t skip the sour cream; it adds essential moisture and tanginess, creating that creamy texture in your creamed corn casserole.
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Consider Your Corn: Different corn types affect sweetness and texture. Frozen corn is ideal, but make sure to adjust moisture if using fresh or canned.
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Chill Before Baking: If you prepare this dish ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking for even more developed flavors.
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Experiment with Add-Ins: Get creative! Mixing in crumbled bacon or shredded cheese enhances flavor, making your casserole even more irresistible.
How to Store and Freeze Creamed Corn Casserole
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before sealing to maintain its delicious texture.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, cool the casserole thoroughly, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its creamy essence.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, for best results.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to 2 days in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake your creamed corn casserole, making meal prep a breeze!
What to Serve with Creamed Corn Casserole?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that will beautifully complement the creamy sweetness of this beloved dish.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken balances the richness of the casserole and adds a protein-packed element to your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds a fresh, earthy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with fresh greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch against the creamy texture of the casserole.
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Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of honey-glazed ham pairs seamlessly with the creamed corn, creating a deliciously sweet and savory harmony.
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Baked Beans: The smoky flavor of baked beans complements the freshness of the corn, making it a comforting addition to your table. This pairing strikes the perfect balance between texture and flavor.
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Cornbread Muffins: Serve with warm, buttery cornbread muffins for a delightful corny experience that matches the casserole’s texture beautifully.
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Sweet Tea: A classic Southern drink choice, sweet tea adds a refreshing sweetness that complements the casserole’s flavor profile perfectly.
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Brownies: For dessert, give your meal a sweet finish with fudgy brownies, which can satisfy any sweet tooth after enjoying that savory casserole.
Creamed Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of corn is best for Creamed Corn Casserole?
I always recommend using frozen corn for its sweet and juicy texture, but fresh corn can work too! If you’re using canned corn, make sure to drain it well to avoid adding extra moisture to the dish.
How long can I store leftover Creamed Corn Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Just let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to the container for optimal freshness!
Can I freeze Creamed Corn Casserole? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your casserole, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which takes about 20-30 minutes.
What should I do if my casserole is too dry or too wet?
If your Creamed Corn Casserole comes out too dry, there are a few things you can do: add a little milk or extra sour cream before serving to boost moisture. Alternatively, if it’s too wet, check the moisture content of the corn you used. You can also bake it a bit longer to help it set.
Can I make Creamed Corn Casserole in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole up to 2 days in advance. Just assemble it, cover well with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to pop it in the oven. This will not only save you time but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
Is Creamed Corn Casserole safe for my pets?
While this dish is delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing it with pets. Ingredients like butter and sour cream may upset their stomachs, and onion (if added) can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep homemade dishes specifically for your family!
Creamed Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
Creamed Corn Casserole That's Creamy, Dreamy, and Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and let it cool. Add corn, creamed corn, eggs, sour cream, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the Jiffy cornbread mix until no dry pockets remain.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the dish to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
