The Ultimate Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Perfect for Any Occasion
Welcome to your new favorite side dish: this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Creamy Corn Casserole. It’s a harmonious blend of velvety smooth texture and sweet, tender corn kernels, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re planning a grand holiday feast, a comforting Sunday dinner, or a simple weeknight family meal, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal effort. Its rich flavor and delightful consistency make it a versatile dish that complements almost any main course, from roasted chicken to holiday ham. Get ready to discover a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
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Why This Creamy Corn Casserole Will Be Your New Favorite
This isn’t just another corn casserole; it’s *the* creamy corn casserole that will win over hearts at any table. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- Unforgettable Taste and Texture – Imagine a dish where a velvety, rich creaminess meets the delightful pop of sweet, crisp corn kernels in every bite. This Jiffy corn casserole delivers exactly that. The natural sweetness of the corn is beautifully enhanced by the luxurious blend of butter and sour cream, while the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix adds a unique sweet and savory cornbread-like depth that sets it apart. It’s a truly satisfying balance of flavors and textures that tantalizes the palate.
- Effortlessly Easy to Prepare – In today’s busy world, time-saving recipes are invaluable. This creamy corn casserole is a true gem, coming together in approximately 5 minutes of active prep time. It’s so straightforward, even aspiring young chefs can lend a hand, making it a fantastic dish for family cooking sessions. Its simplicity ensures that you can whip up a comforting, delicious side dish without the stress, even on your busiest days.
- Guaranteed Crowd Pleaser – From festive holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas to casual backyard BBQs, potlucks, or even a simple family dinner, this corn casserole is universally loved. Its comforting appeal and delectable taste make it a surefire hit with everyone, young and old alike. You can rest assured that this dish will disappear quickly, leaving everyone asking for the recipe.
Looking for more delicious accompaniments to complete your meal? Be sure to explore some of our other celebrated side dish recipes, including Oven Roasted Broccoli, Roasted Potatoes and Carrots, Classic Macaroni Salad, Quick & Delicious Mashed Potatoes, Easy Twice Baked Potatoes, and the ever-popular Southern Squash Casserole.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Corn Casserole
Crafting this incredible creamy corn casserole requires a few simple yet powerful ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of savory delight. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix – This is the ultimate shortcut for convenience and flavor. One box of Jiffy corn muffin mix provides a fantastic cornbread-like texture and infuses the casserole with its signature sweet and savory corn essence. It’s the secret ingredient that makes this recipe so quick and easy. If you can’t find Jiffy mix, or prefer a homemade approach, check out our substitute recipe below!
- Unsalted Butter and Sour Cream – These dairy components are essential for creating the casserole’s signature creamy and moist texture. The unsalted butter contributes a rich, luxurious depth of flavor and helps bind the ingredients, while the sour cream introduces a delightful tanginess that beautifully complements the corn’s sweetness, preventing the dish from being overly rich. It also ensures an incredibly moist crumb.
- Granulated Sugar and Kosher Salt – These two ingredients are vital for balancing the flavor profile. The granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, giving the casserole that irresistible, slightly sweet edge. Kosher salt, on the other hand, brightens and deepens all the other flavors, making the corn taste even more vibrant and ensuring a well-rounded, savory-sweet experience. Adjust these to your personal taste for the perfect balance.
- Canned Creamed Corn and Canned Whole Kernel Corn – These are, of course, the stars of our corn casserole! The creamed corn provides an intensely creamy base and a concentrated corn flavor, while the drained whole kernel corn adds bursts of tender, distinct corn texture. The combination ensures a rich, full-bodied corn experience that’s both smooth and satisfyingly chunky.
- Eggs – Acting as a crucial binder, eggs provide structure to the casserole, preventing it from crumbling. They also add essential moisture and contribute to the overall richness, creating a cohesive and beautifully set dish. Using room temperature eggs will help them incorporate more smoothly into the batter.
How to Make the Best Creamy Corn Casserole
Preparing this creamy corn casserole is astonishingly simple, requiring just a few steps to achieve a truly comforting and flavorful side dish. Follow these easy instructions for perfect results every time:
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While the oven heats up, generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This crucial step ensures your delicious casserole won’t stick and makes for easy serving.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, and the slightly cooled melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly combined. Ensuring your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature will help them blend more seamlessly into a uniform batter.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher texture. Pour the delicious batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
Homemade Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix Substitute
If you find yourself without a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, or simply prefer to make things from scratch, don’t worry! You can easily create a homemade substitute that works beautifully in this creamy corn casserole recipe. This blend will mimic the key components of the Jiffy mix, ensuring your casserole still has that desirable texture and flavor. Simply whisk these ingredients together in a separate bowl until well combined, then add them to your wet ingredients as instructed in the recipe:
- 1/2 cup Yellow corn meal
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted butter
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Corn Casserole
Achieving the perfect creamy corn casserole is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For the smoothest and most evenly combined batter, always use room temperature eggs and sour cream. Cold ingredients can cause the butter to seize up and prevent proper emulsification, leading to a lumpy texture.
- Frozen Corn Option: No canned whole kernel corn on hand? No problem! You can easily substitute 2 cups of frozen whole-kernel corn. Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before adding it to your mixture to prevent a watery casserole.
- Checking for Doneness: The trick to a perfectly baked casserole is ensuring the center is fully set and no longer jiggly. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready. The edges should also be beautifully golden brown.
- Baking Pan Materials Matter: Be mindful of your baking dish material. Metal pans tend to conduct heat more efficiently, meaning your casserole might cook a few minutes faster than in a glass or ceramic dish. Keep a close eye on it and start checking for doneness a bit earlier if using metal.
- Adjusting for Pan Size: This versatile recipe can be baked in a 9×13, 9×9, or 8×8 inch casserole dish. Just remember that baking times will vary significantly with each size. A smaller, deeper pan will require a longer baking time. The pan used in this recipe, measuring 10.5″x7.5″, took approximately 45 minutes. Always rely on the toothpick test for accuracy.
- Don’t Overmix: While you want ingredients well combined, overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher, less tender casserole. Mix just until no streaks of dry ingredients remain.
- Allow for Cooling: Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Letting the casserole cool for at least 15 minutes before serving allows it to set properly, making it easier to scoop and ensuring that delicious creamy texture holds its shape.
Delicious Variations for Your Corn Casserole
While this recipe for creamy corn casserole is a beloved classic, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these variations to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences:
- Add Cheese: For a richer, cheesier experience, stir in 1 cup of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the batter before baking. For the best melting and texture, shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-clumping agents that can affect melt and texture. Alternatively, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- Adjust Sweetness (Sugar): The Jiffy cornbread mix itself contributes a sweet note. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can absolutely omit the granulated sugar. However, if you crave an even sweeter, dessert-like corn casserole, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of sugar to taste.
- Egg-Free Option: While eggs provide structure and moisture, some recipes omit them for a denser, more custard-like consistency. If you wish to experiment, know that omitting eggs will result in a casserole that is less firm and more spoonable, similar to a corn pudding but still holding its shape more than a true pudding.
- Introduce Meats: For a heartier side dish or even a light main course, consider adding some cooked and crumbled sausage (like breakfast sausage for a savory twist) or crispy bacon bits to the batter. These additions bring a wonderful savory depth and a textural contrast.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños (fresh or canned) to the mix. A touch of chili powder can also add a smoky, warm flavor.
- Herbal Enhancements: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile. Try incorporating finely chopped chives, parsley, or even a hint of thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
- Onion and Bell Pepper: Sautéed diced onions and bell peppers can add a lovely savory base and extra texture to your casserole. Cook them until soft before stirring into the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Corn Casserole
Got questions about making, storing, or serving this creamy corn casserole? We’ve got answers!
The main distinction lies in their texture and ingredient ratios. Corn pudding typically uses a higher proportion of eggs and milk, resulting in a softer, more custard-like, and often sweeter dish that doesn’t hold its shape as well. Corn casserole, on the other hand, often incorporates a cornmeal-based mix (like Jiffy) and has a denser, more cohesive consistency, akin to a very moist cornbread, yet still wonderfully creamy. It holds its shape much better when served.
Absolutely! This is a fantastic dish for meal prep. You can prepare the entire casserole batter and pour it into your baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking as instructed. Alternatively, you can bake the casserole completely, allow it to cool, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before serving. While it’s delightful fresh from the oven, making it ahead is a great convenience!
Yes, it certainly can! If you prefer a hands-off approach, simply spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray, pour in the prepared batter, cover, and cook on low for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it. The edges should be set and the center firm. The slow cooker method results in an incredibly moist and tender casserole.
To store leftover creamy corn casserole, ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, it’s best to let the chilled casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and reheat in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. This method helps maintain its moisture and creamy texture.
While this corn casserole is undeniably at its best when freshly baked, you can freeze it for longer storage. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the reheating instructions provided above. Be aware that the texture might be slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with a wide array of main courses. It’s a classic accompaniment for holiday roasts like turkey and ham. It also complements grilled meats such as chicken, pork chops, or steak. For a comforting family meal, serve it alongside meatloaf, fried chicken, or even a simple chili. It’s also a fantastic addition to potlucks and BBQs, as it travels well and is always a hit!
More Holiday Side Dish Recipes to Explore
If you loved this creamy corn casserole, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other delicious side dishes that are perfect for any holiday table or special occasion. These recipes are designed to complement your main courses beautifully and bring extra joy to your family and guests.
Easy Pecan Roasted Sweet Potato Casserole
Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Southern Slow Cooker Green Beans
Creamy Corn Casserole
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Ingredients
- 1 8.5oz Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (1 box)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
- 1 cup Sour cream (room temperature)
- 2 large Eggs (room temperature)
- 1 15 oz can Creamed corn
- 1 15 oz can Whole kernel corn (drained)
- 1 tbsp Granulated sugar (or more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Kosher salt (or more to taste)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the room temperature eggs, sour cream, and slightly cooled melted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.1 cup Sour cream, 2 large Eggs, 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
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To the wet mixture, add the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are just combined. Avoid overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.1 8.5oz Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, 1 15 oz can Creamed corn, 1 15 oz can Whole kernel corn, 1 tbsp Granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
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Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are a beautiful golden brown. The center should be set and not jiggle. Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure it sets properly and is easier to scoop.
Nutrition
This Creamy Corn Casserole is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Its ease of preparation, combined with its irresistible flavor and comforting texture, makes it a perfect choice for any meal, from weeknight dinners to special holiday feasts. We hope you and your loved ones enjoy this delightful side dish as much as we do. Happy cooking!