If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that combines the creamy sweetness of corn with the irresistible pull of melted cheese, you’re going to love this Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe. It’s a true classic with a rich, velvety texture and a golden, bubbly top that invites you to dig in right away. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress without fuss, this casserole brings together simple pantry staples into something truly special. You’ll find it hard to believe how effortlessly these humble ingredients transform into a crowd-pleasing side or even a satisfying centerpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe is built on straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in bringing flavor, moisture, and that perfect melt factor. From creamy canned corn to savory sour cream and sharp cheddar, every element adds depth and comfort to the dish.
- 14.75 oz can creamed corn: Provides luscious creaminess and natural sweetness that forms the base of the casserole.
- 15.25 oz can whole kernel corn (drained): Adds delightful bursts of texture and fresh corn flavor throughout.
- 2 eggs (whisked together): Act as the binding agent that holds the casserole’s tender crumb together perfectly.
- 8 oz Jiffy corn muffin mix: Brings a subtle cornmeal sweetness and a light, cakey texture to the dish.
- 8 oz sour cream: Contributes a tangy richness that keeps the casserole moist and creamy.
- 1/2 stick butter (melted): Infuses the casserole with a buttery goodness and helps everything meld beautifully.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): Tops the casserole with a golden, gooey layer of cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
How to Make Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, combine the creamed corn, whole kernel corn, whisked eggs, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Skip the cheese for now—it’s all about blending these ingredients until smooth and well incorporated, ensuring every bite will be flavorful and moist.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish generously so your corn casserole doesn’t stick. Pour the mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface for baking. A well-prepared pan helps with both cooking and presentation, making your final dish look inviting and professional.
Step 3: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top of your corn mixture. The cheese will melt as it bakes, creating a luscious, golden crust that’s as delicious as it is attractive. This step is key to achieving the classic cheesiness this recipe is beloved for.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Covering traps steam while cooking, which keeps the casserole moist and tender inside. This slow, gentle heat allows the flavors to marry beautifully and the mixture to set without drying out.
Step 5: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheddar topping begins to brown and bubble invitingly. This finishing touch adds texture and a toasty cheese flavor that takes this dish from good to unforgettable. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving—this short wait helps everything settle, making it easier to cut and serve.
How to Serve Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the warm casserole just before serving. A small dollop of sour cream on top can also add creaminess and a fresh tang that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
This cheesy corn casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork chops. It also works well alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed greens to lighten the meal without sacrificing heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties. You could also add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for a spicy twist that contrasts deliciously with the sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. The casserole tends to thicken slightly after chilling, making it easier to reheat single servings without compromising texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe in a freezer-safe dish or wrapped tightly in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to keep the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave until warm throughout, or use an oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes to maintain a creamy texture and melt any slightly hardened cheese on top.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels add a wonderful texture and natural sweetness. Just blanch or lightly cook the corn before adding it to the casserole to keep it tender and flavorful.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt, and use vegan cheddar cheese along with a dairy-free butter alternative to make it dairy-free without losing the creaminess.
Can I make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Adding diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture before baking can give the casserole a nice kick while complementing the sweet corn.
What can I use if I don’t have Jiffy corn muffin mix?
Mix together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and a bit of sugar as a substitute to mimic the texture and sweetness of the Jiffy mix, or simply try your favorite corn muffin mix available locally.
How can I make the casserole more moist?
Be sure not to overbake and consider adding a little extra sour cream or a splash of milk if the mixture feels too thick before baking. These small adjustments help keep each bite creamy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe is truly one of those soul-satisfying dishes that has a way of bringing people together. Its creamy texture, sweet corn goodness, and ooey-gooey cheese topping make it a winner every time. Whether you’re looking for an easy side or a comforting casserole to brighten your table, give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
Print
Cheesy Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in a creamy, cheesy corn casserole that’s a perfect side dish for any meal. This comforting baked casserole combines creamed corn, whole kernel corn, sour cream, and cheddar cheese for a rich and flavorful experience ideal for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14.75 oz can creamed corn
- 15.25 oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
- 2 eggs (whisked together)
- 8 oz Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 8 oz sour cream
- 1/2 stick butter (melted, 4 tablespoons)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when your casserole mixture is prepared.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, whisked eggs, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter until well combined, creating a creamy batter.
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the corn mixture evenly into the dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the casserole dish for a delicious, cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, allowing the mixture to set and flavors to meld.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown and is slightly crisp.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to allow it to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the texture.
Notes
- Using a greased dish prevents the casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving.
- Covering the casserole during the first part of baking helps retain moisture, keeping the casserole creamy.
- Allowing it to rest before serving lets the casserole set properly, improving texture and flavor.
- You can add diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy twist.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
