This sweet corn casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines creamy corn, fluffy cornbread mix, and a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect as a side for any meal!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just mix the ingredients, pour, and bake. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) taste great the next day too. Who can resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Whole kernel corn gives texture, while creamed corn adds creaminess. If you don’t have canned corn, frozen corn works well too. Just thaw it before mixing!
Cornmeal/Corn Muffin Mix: Yellow cornmeal offers great flavor. For a slightly sweeter taste, corn muffin mix is perfect. If gluten-free, select a gluten-free cornmeal or corn mix to substitute.
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds moisture and tang. If you’re out of sour cream, substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar texture—just remember to use plain yogurt!
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without added salt. You can replace it with olive oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get a Nice Golden Brown Top?
Achieving that lovely golden brown top is all about proper baking. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven well—this ensures even cooking from the start.
- Use a light-colored baking dish; darker metal pans can cause burning on the bottom.
- Check doneness towards the end of baking. If the top isn’t golden but the center is set, cover with foil to prevent over-browning while it finishes baking.
A toothpick test is key! Insert your toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
Sweet Corn Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal or corn muffin mix
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the baking dish)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sweet corn casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 45-55 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, including baking time! It’s a quick and delicious addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly. While it’s heating, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish with a bit of butter.
2. Mix the Corn:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn and the creamed corn. Stir them together until they are well mixed.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
Now, add the yellow cornmeal (or corn muffin mix), all-purpose flour, granulated sugar (if you want it sweeter), baking powder, and salt to the corn mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly so there are no dry patches left.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add in the moist ingredients! Mix in the sour cream, beaten eggs, and melted butter into the corn mixture. Stir gently until everything is combined and the batter is smooth.
5. Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baking is complete, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This little break helps it set. For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like. Serve it warm alongside your favorite main dishes!
This sweet corn casserole is a delightful treat that pairs well with all sorts of meals. I hope you enjoy every yummy bite! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen corn and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain the right texture for your casserole.
Can I Make This Corn Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Just mix all the ingredients, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tang, or even buttermilk if you prefer a little extra moisture.