This creamy corn casserole is the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving! It’s made with sweet corn, cheese, and a little cream for extra yumminess. Everyone will love its rich flavor!
Honestly, this dish is so easy to whip up that I often make it just for fun, not just holidays! It always makes my guests smile, and I can’t resist sneaking a bite while it bakes. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Kernels: You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. If using canned, make sure to drain it well. I love fresh corn in the summer, but frozen works perfectly out of season!
Sour Cream: It gives the casserole its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This adds a great flavor, but feel free to swap with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder taste, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the salt in the dish. If you’re trying to avoid dairy, use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is the Perfect Texture?
The key to a creamy texture is to mix your ingredients just until they’re combined. Overmixing can result in a dense casserole. Here’s how to achieve the right texture:
- Start by mixing the wet ingredients (corn, sour cream, butter, and eggs) first.
- Then, gently fold in the dry ingredients (cheese, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) until you don’t see any dry flour.
Don’t be alarmed if the mixture seems thick; that’s perfectly normal! Baking will give it a beautiful, fluffy texture.
Easy Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe for Thanksgiving Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen thawed, or canned drained)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious corn casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 45-50 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have it ready to share in just about an hour — perfect for those holiday dinner preparations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to grease a 2-quart baking dish. This will help your casserole come out easily after baking.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the corn kernels, sour cream, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole so delightful!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Now, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything gently until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; you want that lovely fluffiness in the casserole.
4. Pour and Spread:
Pour the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so that it cooks uniformly. It should look delicious already!
5. Bake and Check:
Pop the dish in the oven, uncovered, and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set and the top has turned a lovely golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make serving a little easier. Then, if you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor before diving in!
7. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy corn casserole as a comforting side dish at your Thanksgiving dinner. It’s bound to be a hit!
Dig in and savor each delicious bite together with friends and family!
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand, and you can use it in the same way as fresh corn. Drain any excess water for the best results!
Can I Make This Corn Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Corn Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave, or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to customize! You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a healthier twist, or swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just keep an eye on the moisture levels if you make significant substitutions!
