Are you craving a comforting, delicious side dish that's effortlessly easy to make? Look no further! This crock-pot corn casserole recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget oven-baked casseroles that take up valuable oven space and time; this recipe delivers the same creamy, cheesy goodness with the convenience of your slow cooker. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or simply a delicious addition to any weeknight dinner. This easy recipe is a true testament to homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled bacon (optional, for added flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is well combined but avoid overmixing.
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Slow cooker magic: Grease a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Pour the corn casserole mixture into the slow cooker.
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Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness around the 4-hour mark if cooking on low.
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Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the slow cooker and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious and easy side dish! It's perfect alongside roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even as a standalone vegetarian option.
Cooking Tips for the Best Corn Casserole:
- For a smoother texture: If you prefer a smoother casserole, you can blend a portion of the creamed corn before adding it to the mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious additions.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 6g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
Variations:
- Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for a spicy twist.
- Mexican Street Corn Casserole: Add a can of drained fire-roasted corn, some crumbled queso fresco, and a lime wedge for serving.
- Creamy Bacon and Corn Casserole: Increase the bacon to 1 cup for a richer, bacon-lover's delight.
This crock-pot corn casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and delicious, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this crowd-pleasing side dish!