This delicious corn bake combines sweet corn and vegetables with a creamy béchamel sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese and oregano. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a side or a light main course.
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Vegetable Stir-Fry Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Béchamel Sauce Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fried Corn and Vegetables:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- Broccoli, small florets
- 1 tomato, small cubed
- 1 small can (330g weight without liquid) of sweet corn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce):
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (250ml) milk
- Freshly ground black pepper, salt, and nutmeg to taste
For the Toppings:
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
- Oregano
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Prepare the Stir-Fried Corn and Vegetables:
- In a pan, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and stir until softened.
- Add the carrot, broccoli, and tomato. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Add the sweet corn and continue to stir and cook the vegetables until they are softened but still slightly crunchy.
- Pour the stir-fried vegetables into an oval baking dish (23 x 15 x 3 cm) and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce):
- In a separate saucepan or small pot, melt 2-3 tbsp of butter over low heat. Add the flour and stir until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the milk a little at a time, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth. If necessary, use a strainer to remove any lumps.
- Season the sauce with freshly ground black pepper, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
- Assemble the Corn Bake:
- Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the stir-fried corn and vegetables in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese or arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top.
- Sprinkle oregano over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven at 220°C (428°F) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Oven times may vary, so keep an eye on the dish to prevent over-browning.
- Serve:
- Serve the corn bake warm. It pairs well with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the corn bake warm with a side of mixed greens or a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Pair with a grilled protein, such as chicken or fish, for a more substantial dinner.
- Enjoy as a side dish with roasted meats or a holiday feast.
Cooking Tips
- For a richer flavor, use a mixture of cheeses, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, along with mozzarella.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the béchamel sauce for a slight kick.
- Ensure the béchamel sauce is smooth by stirring continuously and adding the milk gradually.
Nutritional Benefits
- Corn is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support overall health.
- Broccoli and carrots add essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of the dish.
- Using a moderate amount of butter and cheese provides necessary fats while keeping the dish balanced.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.
- For a lower-fat version, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave until warmed through.
- This dish is not suitable for freezing as the texture of the béchamel sauce may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of sweet corn and crunchy vegetables with a creamy béchamel sauce makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
- It’s easy to prepare and bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting side dish.
- The melted mozzarella cheese and oregano topping add a delicious and aromatic finish.
Conclusion
Enjoy this savory and comforting corn bake with its rich blend of vegetables, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!