Did you know that over 90% of American households include corn in their meals at least once a week? This statistic highlights just how central corn is to our diets, and corn casserole is a prime example of its versatility. If you're looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish for your next gathering, this recipe might just become a staple in your kitchen. You'll find it not only complements a variety of main courses but can also be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Curious about how to whip up this comforting dish?
Key Takeaways
- Combine 1 can of whole kernel corn, 1 can of creamed corn, dry cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs in a bowl.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before preparing the casserole.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for 10 minutes before serving to enhance texture and flavor.
History
Corn casserole, often called corn pudding or scalloped corn, has a rich history that dates back to Native American cuisine, where corn was a staple long before European settlers arrived.
In the 19th century, this dish gained popularity in the Midwest as an easy way to prepare corn for large families. With the introduction of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix in the 1930s, making corn casserole became even simpler, solidifying its place in American households.
Its comforting texture and flavor made it a beloved side dish for holiday meals, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
You'll find various regional variations, each reflecting local ingredients and cooking traditions, but the essence remains the same: a delicious, easy-to-prepare dish that brings people together.
Recipe
Corn Casserole Recipe
If you're looking for a delicious and easy side dish to complement your meals, the Awesome and Easy Creamy Corn Casserole is the perfect choice. This rich and creamy casserole combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of sour cream and cornbread mix, creating a comforting dish that's sure to please a crowd.
Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply want a tasty addition to your dinner table, this casserole is both simple to prepare and satisfying.
Preparing the casserole is straightforward; you just need to mix the ingredients, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. The result is a golden-brown, creamy delight that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Plus, with the ability to make it ahead of time, this recipe is as convenient as it's delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
- 1 package (8.5 oz) dry cornbread mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
Cooking Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, dry cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs.
Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated. Pour the batter into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Extra Tips:
When making this casserole, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. You can add diced peppers for a bit of heat, use a gluten-free cornbread mix for dietary restrictions, or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you're looking for a healthier alternative.
Additionally, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat thoroughly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Cooking Steps
To get started on your corn casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Next, mix all the ingredients in a bowl until they're well combined.
Once that's done, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and you're ready to bake!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Before diving into the casserole preparation, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is optimal for baking corn casserole, ensuring it turns out golden brown and delicious.
Take about 10-15 minutes to allow your oven to reach the desired temperature; this is crucial for even cooking. If you want to be extra precise, use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven's temperature is accurate, as incorrect readings can impact your baking time and results.
Proper preheating helps the casserole rise and set correctly, contributing to its creamy texture and enhancing its overall flavor.
Step 2. Mix Ingredients in Bowl
Mix the ingredients in a large bowl to create a delicious base for your corn casserole.
Start by combining 1 can of drained whole kernel corn, 1 can of creamed corn, and 1 package (8.5 oz) of dry cornbread mix in your mixing bowl.
Next, add 1 cup of sour cream and ½ cup of melted butter to enhance the creaminess.
Crack in 2 eggs to bind everything together, ensuring you mix thoroughly.
Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined, but be careful not to over-mix; you want a tender texture.
Once your mixture is ready, you'll be set to pour it into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish for the next step in creating your corn casserole.
Step 3. Pour Mixture Into Baking Dish
Once you've thoroughly combined all the ingredients, pour the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
Make sure to evenly spread the mixture across the bottom of the dish to promote even cooking and browning. A spatula works great for this, so use it to create a smooth top, which not only aids in even baking but also enhances the presentation of your corn casserole.
If you notice any air bubbles, lightly tap the baking dish on the counter; this will help eliminate them and improve the texture of the finished dish.
If you're cooking for a larger gathering, consider using a 9×13-inch baking dish, but keep the cooking time similar to ensure everything cooks perfectly.
Step 4. Bake for 45 Minutes
Now that your corn casserole is ready in the baking dish, it's time to bake it for 45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.
Place the greased baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered until the top is golden brown.
At the 45-minute mark, check the casserole by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
This step is crucial to prevent overbaking, as oven temperatures can vary.
Depending on your serving size, you might use a 9×9-inch or a 9×13-inch baking dish for the combined mixture.
Once it's done, let the corn casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious creation!
Step 5. Let Cool Before Serving
After you've baked your corn casserole to a beautiful golden brown, let it cool for about 10 minutes.
This cooling period is crucial; it helps the dish set, enhancing both the flavors and texture. If you serve it too hot, the casserole may fall apart, making it difficult to achieve clean portions.
The residual heat continues to cook the casserole slightly, ensuring it's thoroughly warm throughout. Remember, serving it warm offers the best taste experience, as cooling it too long can affect the creamy goodness and overall flavor.
Final Thoughts
While preparing corn casserole might seem simple, the dish's rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout at any gathering.
This easy corn casserole recipe seamlessly combines sweet corn, creamed corn, and cornbread mix into a creamy corn casserole that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving dinner.
You can make it ahead by assembling it up to two days in advance, or even freeze it for later use.
The versatility of this baked dish allows you to add cheese on top or spice it up with jalapeños, ensuring it remains a family favorite.
Whether you opt for the classic Jiffy corn casserole recipe or your unique twist, this dish is sure to impress.
Enjoy the compliments!
In the vast and diverse world of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, Olivia has found her calling. As an author and a dedicated coffee and tea aficionado, her work for Cappuccino Oracle reflects her profound love and understanding of the intricate complexities found within these beverages. Olivia’s passion for the subject serves as both a catalyst for her creativity and a connection point with her audience.
