Cheesy Corn Casserole is a rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a delicious side dish. With both whole kernel and creamed corn, this casserole brings out the full sweetness of corn, while the corn muffin mix adds a soft, slightly crumbly texture. Combined with sour cream and melted butter, this casserole is wonderfully moist, while cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of flavor. This is a family-friendly recipe that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Canned Corn: 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• Creamed Corn: 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
• Corn Muffin Mix: 1 package (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
• Sour Cream: 1 cup
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded (optional, for a cheesy casserole)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Green Onions: 2, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and corn muffin mix.
2. Add the sour cream and melted butter, and stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. If using cheddar cheese, add 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese to the mixture, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese on top, if desired, for an extra cheesy crust.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
2. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out mostly clean, the casserole is ready.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions for a touch of color and fresh flavor before serving.
3. Serve warm as a side dish to complement meats, vegetables, or other main courses.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole without cheese?
A: Absolutely! While the cheese adds extra flavor, you can omit it for a lighter version of the dish. The casserole will still be creamy and delicious.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the casserole?
A: Yes! You can customize this casserole by adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even a small can of green chilies for extra flavor. Just be sure to drain any canned ingredients to avoid excess moisture.

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow the casserole to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed.

Q: Can I use a different type of corn muffin mix?
A: Jiffy is a popular choice because of its flavor and texture, but you can substitute with other brands or even a homemade corn muffin mix. Just ensure the dry mix weight is close to 8.5 ounces for the correct consistency.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cheesy Corn Casserole

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the casserole to become too dense.
• Drain the Whole Kernel Corn: To avoid a watery casserole, be sure to drain the canned whole kernel corn well. If you prefer fresh or frozen corn, you can use about 1 1/2 cups as a substitute.
• Add a Topping for Extra Texture: For added texture, sprinkle a bit of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking. This gives the casserole a delightful crunch.
• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to use other types like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for added spice.
• Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Green onions are great for garnish, but you can also try fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro to add a fresh and vibrant finish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing the Casserole: This casserole can be frozen if you want to make it ahead of time or save leftovers. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: To reheat, let the casserole thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Corn Casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with any main course. Its blend of creamy textures, cheesy flavor, and slight sweetness from the corn makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a dish for a special holiday gathering or just a way to use up pantry staples, this casserole is a fantastic option.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. With a few pantry ingredients, you can quickly prepare a dish that feels like comfort in every bite. Serve it alongside roasted meats, grilled veggies, or a green salad, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal. Happy cooking!