This corn casserole is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings. It’s sweet, creamy, and cheesy, with a lovely golden top that makes everyone smile!
If you ask me, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. I love serving it with a side of warm bread—it’s so good that I often go back for seconds (or thirds!). 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornmeal: Yellow cornmeal gives the casserole its texture. If you don’t have it, you could use finely ground polenta as a substitute. I prefer medium grind for a nice, hearty chew!
Corn: The whole kernel corn adds bites of sweetness. You can swap it with frozen corn kernels if canned isn’t available. Just thaw them first and they’re good to go!
Cream-style corn: This adds moisture and sweetness to the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try pureed canned corn as a substitute.
Sour cream: For creaminess, but you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthier twist. I like the tanginess of Greek yogurt in this dish!
Cheddar cheese: While Cheddar is my go-to for flavor, feel free to try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different twist. You can also skip it for a dairy-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Perfect Bake?
Baking this corn casserole to perfection can be tricky. Here are some tips to help achieve that golden top and moist center:
- Preheat your oven properly; a hot oven helps the casserole rise and set.
- Check the casserole a few minutes before the suggested baking time. You want a firm surface and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Let it cool briefly after baking. This helps the structure firm up and makes slicing easier.
Keep these tips in mind for a delicious, crowd-pleasing corn casserole every time!
How to Make Corn Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty corn casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 45-55 minutes to bake. After pulling it out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before digging in. So, it’s roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for when you need something delicious in a timely manner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This prevents the casserole from sticking and helps it cook evenly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Now, add the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, melted butter, eggs, and the shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Mix gently until everything is combined, but don’t over-mix!
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. This helps it bake uniformly.
5. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You want it to be set in the middle and have a golden, crispy top.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serves up perfectly!
7. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
This corn casserole is sure to be a hit with its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks—everyone will love it! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Substitute Cream-Style Corn?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use pureed canned corn instead. Just blend the corn until smooth for a similar consistency to cream-style corn!
How Do I Store Leftover Corn Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cornmeal, and make sure all other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free. It’s a delicious option everyone can enjoy!
What Can I Serve with Corn Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with proteins like roast chicken or barbecue, and it’s fantastic alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Perfect for family gatherings!
