If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy side dish, look no further than The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe. This dish brings together the natural sweetness of corn with the savory depth of cheddar and bacon, all wrapped up in a luscious, baked casserole that everyone will ask for again and again. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color. These staples come together to make a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly rich without feeling overwhelming.
- Frozen corn (2 packages, 12-oz each): Using thawed frozen corn ensures a fresh flavor and sweet pop in every bite, while convenience is unbeatable.
- Eggs (2): They bind the casserole together, creating that creamy texture that is pure comfort food magic.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): This thickens the mixture to hold it just right, giving the casserole body and that pleasing sliceable quality.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): A touch of sweetness enhances the natural corn flavor and balances the savory ingredients perfectly.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness and helps meld all those flavors into a creamy delight.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just a hint of warmth cuts through the richness, providing a subtle but welcome kick.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Sharp and melty, this cheese adds gooey texture and depth of flavor, both inside and on top of the casserole.
- Bacon (8 slices, cooked and chopped): Crispy bacon bits lend smoky crunch and umami that elevate this casserole from good to unforgettable.
How to Make The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. While it’s warming up, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This small prep step ensures your casserole comes out clean and beautiful, ready to wow your guests.
Step 2: Create the Creamed Corn Base
In a food processor or blender, combine one package of thawed frozen corn with eggs, flour, sugar, softened butter, and cayenne pepper. Pulse three to four times until the corn turns creamy but not completely pureed, retaining some texture. This mixture forms the luscious base of the casserole that blends smooth creaminess with bursts of whole corn kernels.
Step 3: Mix in the Remaining Ingredients
Pour the creamed corn mixture into a large bowl and then add the remaining package of corn, one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped cooked bacon. Stir everything together gently so that the ingredients are well combined, maintaining even distribution for that satisfying cheesy, smoky bite throughout.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Pour the entire corn mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This extra layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that adds irresistible flavor and a beautiful finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. During this time, the ingredients meld together and the top becomes beautifully golden. When done, it should be softly set in the center with a slight crust on top—perfect for serving up warm and gooey goodness.
How to Serve The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Lightly sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving for a bright pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This corn casserole pairs beautifully with classic roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. It’s also a great companion to crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, adding a hearty, creamy counterbalance to lighter sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mini ramekins for a charming presentation at holiday dinners or potlucks. You can also turn this dish into a layered corn bake by alternating casserole with crumbled bacon and extra cheese for a festive twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover corn casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350ºF oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. To keep the top from drying out, cover loosely with foil during reheating and uncover for the last few minutes to refresh the cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels are a fantastic substitute and can add wonderful sweetness and freshness. Just char or steam them slightly before using to mimic the texture and moisture of thawed frozen corn.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a similar umami punch without the meat.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time before baking?
You can assemble the entire casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold going in.
What type of cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you could try Monterey Jack or a smoky Gouda for interesting flavor variations. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that gooey finish.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
It’s optional but highly recommended. The tiny bit of heat adds a wonderful depth and contrast that makes The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe truly stand out. You can adjust it to suit your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got all the secrets to making The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe, it’s time to bring this heartwarming dish to your table. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this casserole promises smiles with every spoonful. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved classic in your recipe rotation just like it is in mine!
Print
The BEST Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and cheesy corn casserole combines sweet corn, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon for a flavorful side dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals. With a slight kick of cayenne pepper and a rich, comforting texture, this easy-to-make casserole bakes to golden perfection in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Corn Mixture
- 2 (12-oz) packages frozen corn, thawed
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp butter, softened
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Add-ins and Topping
- 1½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
- Create creamed corn base: In a food processor or blender, combine one package (12 oz) of thawed corn, the eggs, flour, sugar, softened butter, and cayenne pepper. Pulse 3 to 4 times until the mixture resembles creamed corn with slightly blended texture but still some chunky bits. Transfer this mixture into a large mixing bowl.
- Combine remaining ingredients: To the bowl with creamed corn, add the remaining package of corn, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the cooked chopped bacon. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the corn mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake until bubbly and golden: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the cheese on top melted and slightly browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute one egg with an additional tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream.
- Make sure to cook and drain bacon well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal spread.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
