If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming of a side dish that’s irresistibly creamy, a little bit sweet, and guaranteed to coax “just one more scoop” from everyone at the table, this Easy Corn Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It’s the kind of comforting classic that brings out the kid in all of us, blending hearty corn, sour cream, buttery goodness, and a touch of cheddar for a dish that’s as at home on a busy weeknight as it is nestled next to your Thanksgiving turkey. The magic here is in its simplicity; you’ll be amazed how a handful of pantry essentials transforms into a golden, fluffy, crave-worthy casserole that always steals the spotlight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s truly remarkable how such a short list of simple ingredients comes together to create something so flavorful. Every element in this Easy Corn Casserole Recipe pulls its own weight, contributing to the signature creaminess, slight sweetness, and gorgeous golden color that makes this casserole so beloved.
- Canned Whole Kernel Corn: Adds pops of juicy sweetness and texture throughout each bite. Be sure to drain it well!
- Canned Creamed Corn: The secret to the casserole’s ultra-creamy consistency—no extra effort required.
- Sour Cream: Provides that tangy richness and moisture, making the casserole super tender.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Buttery flavor guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth experience, and the unsalted version lets you control seasoning.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: The star shortcut—this mix lifts the casserole with a subtle cake-like fluff and just the right hint of sweetness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): Adds irresistible gooeyness and savory depth, especially delicious when sprinkled on top towards the end.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Don’t skip these—they balance all the creamy and sweet flavors perfectly.
How to Make Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven & Baking Dish Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with either butter or a bit of nonstick spray. This simple prep step makes serving and cleanup a breeze, and ensures those golden edges lift right out.
Step 2: Mix All the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Give everything a good stir until the mixture is fully combined and creamy. The blend should look luscious already—you’re halfway to casserole bliss!
Step 3: Fold In the Corn Muffin Mix
Add the Jiffy corn muffin mix to your bowl, and gently fold it in. You want the batter to be mostly combined, but try not to overmix; it’s fine if it’s a little lumpy, which helps keep the casserole light and fluffy rather than dense.
Step 4: Add Cheese, Salt, and Pepper
Next, if you’re going the cheesy route (trust me, that gooey top is never a bad decision), fold in your shredded cheddar cheese along with the salt and pepper. The cheese will melt into the casserole, giving every bite a bit of that savory, melty pull.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the prepared mixture into your greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center isn’t wobbly—your house will smell so good, it’ll be hard to wait! Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving; this helps it set up just right.
How to Serve Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping my Easy Corn Casserole Recipe with a sprinkle of extra cheddar during the last few minutes in the oven, giving it a bubbly, golden crust. Fresh chopped herbs—like chives or parsley—add a burst of color and a whisper of freshness that really pop against the creamy corn.
Side Dishes
This casserole is famously versatile. It’s at home alongside a roast chicken or glazed ham, but honestly, I’ve happily made a plate with just this, a crisp green salad, and some fresh tomatoes. On holiday tables, it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, or sweet potato casserole for an unbeatable spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, spoon individual servings into ramekins for a more upscale twist, or bake in a cast iron skillet for a rustic table centerpiece. The Easy Corn Casserole Recipe is also fantastic as a make-ahead brunch addition—pair with eggs and breakfast sausage for a morning treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container—this keeps the texture creamy and delicious.
Freezing
If you’d like to make some ahead for another time, simply cool the casserole, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Individual portions can also be frozen in small containers for quick lunches.
Reheating
To reheat, just pop a portion in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for an extra-luscious result—it’ll taste just like freshly baked!
FAQs
Can I make the Easy Corn Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (but don’t bake it), cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready—add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Do I have to use Jiffy corn muffin mix?
Jiffy is classic, but any brand of cornbread mix will work in this Easy Corn Casserole Recipe. Just be sure it’s the same size (about 8.5 ounces) so the ratios stay spot on.
How can I make it spicier or more flavorful?
Stir in some diced jalapeños or a small can of chopped green chiles with the wet ingredients for a gentle kick. A handful of diced red bell pepper also adds color and sweetness!
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute a gluten-free cornbread mix for the Jiffy. Be mindful to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well, and you’ll still get all the creamy, fluffy magic.
Does this Easy Corn Casserole Recipe pair well with barbecue?
It’s actually one of the most popular sides at backyard BBQs and cookouts—the sweet, creamy corn is perfect alongside smoky ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. It’s the casserole everyone asks for seconds of!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the crowd-pleasing comfort of this Easy Corn Casserole Recipe to bring warmth and cheer to your table, whether it’s a special occasion or a regular weeknight. I can’t wait for you to try it—get ready for a new family favorite that just might become a tradition!
Print
Easy Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Corn Casserole Recipe is a delicious and comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a mix of whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and a golden corn muffin mix, this casserole is creamy, slightly sweet, and oh-so satisfying. Add some cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy twist!
Ingredients
For the Corn Casserole:
- 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and corn muffin mix. Stir until well combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper if desired.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped green chiles or diced jalapeños.
- Sprinkle more cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesier crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
