This Sweet Corn Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines sweet corn, cream, and a hint of buttery goodness. It’s super easy to make and goes well with any meal!
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. I love serving it alongside grilled meats—it adds the perfect sweet touch! 🌽✨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Kernel Corn: Use canned corn for convenience, but fresh or frozen corn works well too! Just make sure to cook it first to soften it up.
Cream-Style Corn: This adds sweetness and moisture. If you can’t find it, you can blend some regular canned corn with a bit of cream to mimic it.
Cornmeal: Yellow cornmeal gives a lovely texture, but white cornmeal or even polenta can be used if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Sour Cream: This gives a creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that works well here too.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for controlling salt levels but feel free to use margarine or a dairy-free alternative if you need a vegan option.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole Cooks Evenly?
Getting a perfect bake is all about the preparation and temperature. Here’s how to ensure it turns out great:
- Start with a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking right from the start.
- Mix your ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Just combine until it’s all moistened.
- Grease your baking dish well. This helps prevent sticking and gives a nice texture to the edges.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, you’re ready to go!
- Let it cool slightly before serving to help it set up better for easier slicing.
Sweet Corn Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh thyme or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Corn Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Make sure to give it some time to cool before you dig in, so the flavors really come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a medium-sized baking dish or casserole pan and grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Corn:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn and cream-style corn. Stir them together until they look well mixed.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle in the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just make sure everything is combined!
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until you have a smooth mixture. This will add richness to your casserole.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mix into the dry mixture, and gently fold everything together until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix, or your casserole might get dense!
6. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Transfer your batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake It:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. If you want, add some fresh thyme or parsley on top for a nice touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Sweet Corn Casserole is ready! Serve it warm, and enjoy the creamy, sweet flavors with your loved ones. It’s a true comfort dish!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using frozen corn, just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before mixing it into the recipe. This will help maintain the casserole’s texture.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free, and you’ll be good to go!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free sour cream alternative and swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter substitute or coconut oil. It will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then proceed with baking as directed.
