If you’ve been on the lookout for a warm, comforting dish that bursts with cheesy, sweet, and buttery flavors, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those recipes that comfort food dreams are made of — perfectly moist, with the delightful texture of corn muffins baked right into a cozy casserole. This dish brings together the simplicity of pantry staples and the magic of melted cheddar cheese, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser any time of year. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe promises to become a new favorite in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create rich flavor, wonderful texture, and that classic corn muffin golden color.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: The base that gives this casserole its signature corn muffin flavor and crumbly texture.
- Whole Kernel Corn (15 oz can, drained): Adds little bursts of sweetness and pop in every bite.
- Cream-Style Corn (15 oz can): Brings a creamy, luscious texture that melds everything together.
- Sour Cream (1 cup): Infuses moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and helps keep the casserole moist and golden.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, optional): The star ingredient for that irresistible cheesy goodness, melting perfectly into the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish or give it a good spray with cooking oil to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick. This preparation sets the stage for an easy release and even cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir all of these ingredients together until they’re fully incorporated. The mixture should have a thick, creamy consistency that promises a satisfying texture once baked.
Step 3: Add Cheese for Extra Flavor
This is where you bring in the deliciousness of cheese. If you’re going for the full cheesy experience, fold in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. It will melt beautifully in the oven, creating irresistible pockets of gooey cheese throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place it in the oven and allow it to bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a top that turns a gorgeous golden brown and a center that’s set and no longer jiggly. The smell alone will have you waiting eagerly to dive in.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once your casserole has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This short resting period helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!
How to Serve Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flavor and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top right before serving. These bright green herbs add a fresh contrast that lifts the savory, cheesy elements beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a side, especially alongside classic barbecue ribs, roasted chicken, or even fried catfish. It pairs well with crisp garden salads and steamed green beans, creating a well-rounded meal full of contrasting textures.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up, try serving the Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins. Another fun idea is to layer it with sautéed vegetables or a spicy salsa topping for an irresistible twist everyone will talk about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep plans without losing its moist texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. To freeze, prep and bake as usual, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick fix, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, uncover for the last few minutes to refresh that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I make the Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond-based sour cream, use dairy-free cheese or omit it, and swap butter with a plant-based margarine or oil to keep it dairy-free and delicious.
Is it possible to add other veggies to this casserole?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even chopped green onions are fantastic additions that bring color, crunch, and extra flavor to the dish without overpowering the classic corn muffin base.
What makes this recipe different from regular corn casserole?
The Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe leans heavily on Jiffy corn muffin mix which gives it a crumbly, muffin-like texture, combined with both whole kernel and cream-style corn for variety in bite and sweetness, plus the melted cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory layer that many other casseroles don’t have.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. You can assemble everything up to mixing and pouring into your baking dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the mixture before baking. You could also top the finished casserole with sliced pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe — it’s simple, comforting, and easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests. If you haven’t tried making this yet, now’s the perfect time to give it a whirl. I promise you’ll love how the sweet corn and savory cheese come together in each cozy spoonful. Your family and friends will be asking for it again and again!
Print
Cheesy Corn Muffin Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Corn Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Made with Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter, it’s baked to golden perfection and optionally enriched with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
Ingredients
Corn Casserole Ingredients
- 1 box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it or coating it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Add cheese (optional): If you choose to use cheese, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese now to add a rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is firm and set in the center.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as a delicious, comforting side dish to accompany your meal!
Notes
- For a spicier twist, add a small diced jalapeño or some chili powder to the mixture before baking.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats and holiday meals.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Using the shredded cheddar cheese is optional but recommended for added flavor and richness.
