Ingredients
1. Creamed Corn (14.75 oz.)
- Flavor and Texture: Creamed corn is the star of this casserole. It provides a rich, creamy texture that forms the base of the dish, giving it a smooth, velvety consistency. The subtle sweetness of the creamed corn is a perfect balance to the savory flavors of the cheese and butter.
- Tip: If you prefer a slightly fresher taste, you can substitute the canned creamed corn with homemade creamed corn or fresh corn blended with a little bit of butter and cream.
2. Frozen Sweet Corn (10 oz.)
- Flavor and Texture: The thawed sweet corn adds a pleasant burst of natural sweetness and texture to the casserole. These kernels pop in your mouth, creating a wonderful contrast to the creamy base. The sweet corn brings a burst of flavor that’s essential to the dish’s well-rounded taste.
- Tip: Feel free to use fresh corn if you prefer. Just make sure to cook and cut the kernels off the cob before adding them to the casserole.
3. Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix (8.5 oz.)
- Flavor and Texture: This is the secret to the casserole’s slightly fluffy and moist texture. The Jiffy corn muffin mix creates the perfect balance between cornbread and casserole, giving the dish just enough structure without it becoming too heavy.
- Tip: If you’re out of Jiffy mix, you can substitute it with other corn muffin mixes, or make your own using cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder.
4. Sugar (1 tablespoon)
- Flavor: A small amount of sugar is added to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. It’s not overly sweet, but it helps balance the savory elements of the casserole, giving it a more complex flavor.
- Tip: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the sugar by half or even omit it entirely.
5. Sour Cream (8 oz.)
- Flavor and Texture: The sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. It helps to create a smooth, velvety texture in the casserole, making every bite rich and satisfying.
- Tip: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt, which will still provide the tangy flavor but with fewer calories.
6. Butter (1 stick, melted + extra for greasing)
- Flavor and Texture: Butter is key to achieving the creamy, indulgent texture of the casserole. It brings richness and flavor to the dish and helps to create a golden, crispy top. Butter also contributes to the casserole’s moistness, making it irresistible.
- Tip: For a healthier version, you can substitute with olive oil or avocado oil, though the flavor may be slightly different.
7. Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Flavor: Salt enhances the natural flavors of the corn and cheese, bringing all the ingredients together. It’s an essential element in balancing the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the sour cream and butter.
- Tip: If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt or use a low-sodium version.
8. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups shredded, divided)
- Flavor and Texture: Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, savory flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the corn. The melted cheese on top forms a gooey, golden crust that adds a delightful texture to the casserole. The cheese is also mixed into the casserole to make it creamy and flavorful.
- Tip: While cheddar is the traditional choice, you can use other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Instructions
Oven Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the casserole cooks through evenly while allowing the cheese to melt and bubble to perfection.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease an 8×8 pan or cast-iron skillet with softened butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and create a beautifully golden crust on the edges. Set the pan aside.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, thawed sweet corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sugar, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. This simple step ensures that all the ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Pour into the Prepared Pan:
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. The casserole will look thick and creamy, with the corn kernels and shredded cheese incorporated into the base.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the pan in the oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. During this time, the casserole will set and begin to form a slightly crispy top. You’ll start to notice the aroma of melted cheese and corn filling the kitchen.
- Add the Remaining Cheese:
- After 45 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve. The result is a deliciously creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to be the star of the meal.
Crock Pot Preparation
If you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, this casserole can also be prepared in the Crock Pot. Here’s how:
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the creamed corn, sweet corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sugar, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to the Crock Pot:
- Lightly grease the Crock Pot and add the mixture. Cover with the lid.
- Cook on High or Low:
- Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours. The casserole will slowly cook, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cheese at the End:
- About 20 minutes before serving, add the remaining shredded cheddar cheese to the top of the casserole. Let it cook for the remaining time until the cheese has melted.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Make sure the casserole is firm and set in the center before serving. This slow-cooker version will have a slightly softer texture but will still be just as delicious.
Notes
- Add Extra Flavor with Toppings:
- Top the casserole with green onions, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of sour cream to add more flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up:
- If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. The kick of spice will complement the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the cheese.
- Make it a Main Dish:
- Add cooked chicken, ham, or even ground beef to turn this casserole into a main dish. Simply fold in your protein of choice before baking.
- Make it Ahead:
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to add the cheese topping in the last few minutes of baking.
- Serving Suggestions:
- This cheesy corn casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a simple salad. It’s a perfect side dish for holiday meals, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour