Name: Corn Casserole Recipe: Creamy and Comforting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained); 15 oz can cream-style corn; 8.5 oz box of cornbread mix; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup butter (melted); 2 large eggs; 1 cup shredded cheddar (divided); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; Optional: Chives; Suggested Pairings: Turkey (iced tea)

Introduction

Corn Casserole is a classic Southern side dish, perfect for holiday feasts, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Its creamy, cornbread-like texture, packed with sweet corn flavor, makes it a comforting crowd-pleaser. Baked to a golden finish in a white ceramic baking dish, optionally garnished with chopped chives, this Corn Casserole creates a warm, inviting aesthetic. This recipe delivers a traditional Corn Casserole, adaptable for dietary preferences, best served hot for a rich, satisfying experience.

Ingredients

For the Corn Casserole:

1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15 oz) can cream-style corn
1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix (e.g., Jiffy)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped fresh chives
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted turkey, green beans
Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, apple cider
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish, mixing bowl, whisk

Step-by-Step Process

Prep Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch white ceramic baking dish.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in cornbread mix, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
Assemble: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly: Let cool for 5-10 minutes to set, making it easier to serve.
Serve: Scoop or slice into portions, serve in the white ceramic baking dish, and garnish with chives. Pair with roasted turkey, green beans, iced tea, or apple cider.

Tips for Better Corn Casserole

Drain whole kernel corn well to avoid excess liquid.
Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream for smoother mixing.
Melt butter slowly to prevent scorching; let it cool slightly before adding.
Check doneness early to avoid overbaking; the casserole should be moist.
Use fresh cornbread mix for the best rise and texture.
Adjust salt sparingly; cheese and cornbread mix add saltiness.
For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
Enhance aesthetic: Sprinkle chives evenly and serve in a white ceramic dish for a warm look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Corn Casserole: Use gluten-free cornbread mix and ensure the corn is gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Corn Casserole: Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt, use vegan butter, and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.
Low-Fat Corn Casserole: Use low-fat sour cream, reduce butter to 1/4 cup, and use 1/2 cup cheese.
Spicy Corn Casserole: Add 1 diced jalapeño or 1/2 tsp cayenne to the batter.
Sweet Corn Casserole: Add 2 tbsp sugar or honey for a sweeter flavor.
Cheesy Corn Casserole: Increase cheese to 1 1/2 cups and mix in 1/2 cup pepper jack.
Veggie-Packed Corn Casserole: Add 1/2 cup diced bell peppers or green onions to the batter.
Bacon Corn Casserole: Stir in 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freeze in an airtight container for 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid drying.
Serve hot or warm for the best texture; cold casserole may firm up.
Use leftovers as a base for cornbread stuffing or mix into soups.
Don’t leave at room temperature for over 2 hours.
Pair with hearty mains, like ham, to balance sweetness.
Presented in a white ceramic dish with chives for an inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (3/4 cup each):

Calories: 340 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 520mg
Total Carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 8g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 4% Daily Value
Calcium: 12% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. These are high in fat and moderate in sodium; try low-fat or dairy-free versions. Serve with veggies for balance.

Conclusion

This Corn Casserole recipe offers a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. It turns simple ingredients into a Southern classic. Its easy preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The golden top and tender interior, with fresh garnishes, delights every time. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its cozy appeal.