Name: Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 cans sweet corn (15 oz each, drained); 1 can cream-style corn (15 oz); 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional); 1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz); Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste

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There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich, buttery goodness of cornbread. The Easy Corn Casserole is exactly that—a perfectly balanced recipe that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. With simple pantry staples coming together to create a golden, cheesy delight, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as straightforward to make as it is delicious.

Easy Corn Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any good recipe, and for this Easy Corn Casserole, they’re both simple and essential. Each component plays a vital role in delivering a perfect texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden hue.

Sweet corn (2 cans, drained): Provides the juicy, sweet kernels that make the casserole burst with fresh, natural flavor.
Cream-style corn (1 can): Adds a creamy, smooth texture that keeps every bite moist and luscious.
Sour cream (1 cup): Contributes a tangy richness that balances out the sweetness of the corn perfectly.
Melted butter (1/2 cup): Brings a deep, savory richness and helps bind everything together beautifully.
Cornbread mix (1 box): The star ingredient that gives the casserole its hearty structure and corn-infused crumbly texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey pockets of flavor, adding sharpness and a delightful golden top.
Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): Offers a fresh, mild bite that brightens the dish visually and taste-wise.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Easy Corn Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature ensures the casserole cooks evenly, developing a beautiful golden crust without drying out the inside.

Step 2: Combine the Corns, Sour Cream, and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the drained sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. This blend forms the creamy, sweet base that promises every spoonful is bursting with flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Stir in the Cornbread Mix

Add the cornbread mix to your bowl and gently fold it in until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the casserole light and tender, allowing the corn kernels to remain distinct throughout.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Green Onions

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for richness and a melty texture, along with the optional chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool just slightly before serving. This rest allows everything to set so it holds together perfectly when plated, making every bite as delightful as the first.

Step 7: Optional Flavor Boosts

If you like to experiment, try adding a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth, or toss in diced jalapeños for that thrilling spicy kick that wakes up the palate.

How to Serve Easy Corn Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a lovely burst of color and freshness on top. A dollop of sour cream or a few extra shredded cheese shreds melted on top right before serving can elevate this dish even further.

Side Dishes

This Easy Corn Casserole pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food staples like roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled sausages. For a vegetarian twist, serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for balanced, satisfying meals.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve spoonfuls of the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at dinner parties. Or create mini muffin-sized portions using a muffin tin for a fun side or appetizer at family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Easy Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it convenient for quick reheats or packed lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by transferring portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before freezing, and use within 2 months for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge. Warm it gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave single servings for a quick fix. Reheating slowly preserves the creamy consistency and keeps the top crispy if finished in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Corn Casserole dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free butter or olive oil. Choose a vegan cornbread mix and non-dairy cheese to keep it completely dairy-free.

What can I add to make this casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while mixing the batter. You could also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Is it possible to use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels work wonderfully, just be sure to cook them briefly or blanch before adding to the mix for the best texture. Adjust the moisture by slightly reducing the cream-style corn or adding a little extra melted butter.

Can I prepare the Easy Corn Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving. This makes it an excellent dish for busy days or holiday meal prep.

How do I keep the casserole moist and not dry?

The key is not to overbake and to keep the balance of wet ingredients like sour cream and cream-style corn. Make sure to cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly while baking, preserving moisture inside.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Corn Casserole is a golden gem in the world of comforting side dishes, blending sweet, creamy, and cheesy flavors that everyone will love. It fills your kitchen with warmth and your table with smiles, proving that simple ingredients and easy steps can turn into something truly special. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a new favorite to make again and again.

Easy Corn Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 12 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Corn Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Combining sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and cornbread mix, it bakes to a golden brown perfection with a tender, moist texture and a subtle savory flavor from cheddar cheese and green onions. Simple to prepare and full of classic Southern charm, this casserole is sure to satisfy any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Dairy

2 cans sweet corn (15 oz each, drained)
1 can cream-style corn (15 oz)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Pantry

1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for even baking.
Mix Corn and Dairy: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sweet corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Add Cornbread Mix: Stir in the cornbread mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could affect texture.
Incorporate Cheese and Onions: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if using. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture evenly inside, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
Bake the Casserole: Bake for 45 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and enhance the flavors.
Optional Flavor Enhancements: For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or diced jalapeños into the mixture before baking for a spicy kick.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Do not overmix after adding the cornbread mix to keep the casserole light and fluffy.
Green onions add a mild sharpness but can be omitted if unavailable or undesired.
Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if your cornbread mix is pre-seasoned.
Adding jalapeños or spices can customize the casserole to your preferred heat level.
Use a toothpick test to ensure the casserole is fully baked without drying it out.
This dish pairs excellently with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a vegetarian main with a side salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Southern American