Are you tired of the same old corn casserole recipe relying on that ubiquitous yellow box? Craving a truly homemade, deliciously flavorful corn casserole that's both easy and impressive? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe skips the Jiffy mix entirely, offering a fresher, brighter corn casserole bursting with natural sweetness and creamy texture. It's the perfect side dish for your next holiday gathering or weeknight dinner, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to elevate your corn casserole game! This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals without sacrificing deliciousness.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy removal of your perfectly golden corn casserole later.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk until well combined. Then, gently stir in the drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
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Cheese & Butter: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and melted butter. The melted butter adds richness and helps create a beautiful golden-brown top.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
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Cool & Serve: Let the corn casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows it to set up nicely and prevents a messy serving experience.
Tips for the Best Corn Casserole:
- Fresh Corn: If you have access to fresh corn on the cob during the summer months, feel free to use it! Cut the kernels off the cob and use them in place of the canned corn.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a beautiful fresh element. Sprinkle them on top before baking or after cooking.
Variations:
- Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for a spicy and savory twist.
- Creamy Southwestern Corn Casserole: Incorporate black beans, cornbread crumbs, and a blend of Mexican cheeses.
- Sweet Cornbread Casserole: Add 1 cup of cornbread crumbs to the batter for a heartier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 6g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This homemade corn casserole is a delicious and easy side dish that will impress your friends and family. It's a fantastic addition to any meal, and the best part is, you can easily customize it to your liking! Enjoy this flavorful and comforting dish – perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. Happy cooking!