Creamy Corn Casserole is the perfect dish to bring to any gathering or enjoy as a comforting side at family dinners. This rich and flavorful casserole is a blend of sweet whole kernel corn, creamy corn, and savory ingredients like sour cream, butter, and cheese. The corn muffin mix gives it a slight fluffiness while adding a touch of sweetness. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks, and the end result is a golden, cheesy casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a holiday meal, or just a weeknight dinner, this dish will become a family favorite. Its comforting flavors, creamy texture, and slightly crispy top will leave everyone asking for seconds. You’ll love how simple it is to make this side dish, and it pairs wonderfully with meats, salads, or any other classic comfort foods. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re at a cozy dinner table, enjoying good food and even better company.
With its combination of canned corn, muffin mix, and melted butter, this casserole is also versatile and can be made with pantry staples. You can modify it to your preferences or get creative by adding extras, but no matter how you make it, this recipe will deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This creamy corn casserole comes together quickly with just a few ingredients. You can prep it in under 10 minutes and have it baking in the oven in no time.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best
The combination of creamy corn, sour cream, and melted butter creates a rich, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.
3. Cheesy Goodness
Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, this casserole gets a golden, cheesy crust that adds flavor and texture to every bite.
4. Great for Large Gatherings
With 8 servings in each batch, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a go-to side dish for family reunions, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
5. Budget-Friendly
Using basic pantry ingredients like canned corn, corn muffin mix, and sour cream, this dish is an affordable way to make a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients
- Whole kernel corn (drained)
- Cream-style corn
- Corn muffin mix
- Sour cream
- Butter (melted)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Variations
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for added flavor and richness.
- Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Seasonings: Try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of different cheeses for a unique twist.
- Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like green bell peppers, corn kernels, or peas to create a veggie-packed casserole.
How to Make Creamy Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Step 5: Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. This will ensure the casserole maintains its fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the casserole is golden brown and set in the center before removing it from the oven. You can insert a toothpick to check if it’s fully cooked.
- Add Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy casserole, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to achieve a meltier, bubbly finish.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of sour cream or use a little less corn muffin mix.
- Let It Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve
Creamy Corn Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with almost anything. Serve it as a side to roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, or alongside hearty salads. It also works wonderfully at barbecues or family gatherings. You can serve it as part of a Thanksgiving dinner, potluck, or holiday meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven for a few minutes before serving.
Freezing
Creamy Corn Casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to serve, bake from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen corn kernels instead of canned corn. Just cook and drain the corn before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve.
3. Can I make this recipe without sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even spinach to give the casserole more color and flavor.
6. How do I make the casserole less sweet?
If you find the casserole too sweet, you can reduce the amount of cream-style corn and add more of the whole kernel corn.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
8. Can this casserole be made in a smaller dish?
Yes, you can adjust the recipe and bake it in a smaller dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may need less time to cook.
9. Can I freeze the casserole after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Just allow it to cool completely before freezing.
10. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top and set in the middle. You can also insert a toothpick to check for doneness.
Conclusion
Creamy Corn Casserole is the perfect combination of sweet corn, savory ingredients, and a cheesy, comforting texture. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a special occasion or enjoying it on a weeknight, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in this hearty, cheesy, and absolutely delicious dish!
PrintCreamy Corn Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Corn Casserole is a comforting side dish that blends sweet corn with a rich, creamy base and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 package (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or mix in some chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes