Are you craving the comforting flavors of classic corn casserole but need a dairy-free option? Look no further! This recipe delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness without any dairy products, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet. It’s a fantastic side dish for any occasion, from Thanksgiving feasts to simple weeknight dinners. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a healthy and delicious meal your whole family will love. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn
- 1 cup dairy-free milk (soy, almond, or oat milk work well)
- 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (or regular all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, creamed corn, and drained whole kernel corn. Ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
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Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms. Avoid overmixing.
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Pour into baking dish: Pour the corn casserole batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure even baking.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. The center should be firm to the touch.
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Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with fresh chives (optional). Serve warm as a delicious side dish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even a hearty vegan stew.
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Corn Casserole:
- For extra creaminess: You can add a tablespoon or two of vegan butter to the batter before baking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked later. Simply assemble the batter and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the batter.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different types of nutritional yeast for variations in the cheesy flavor profile.
- Herbs: Try adding other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This dairy-free corn casserole is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, showcasing the versatility of simple ingredients. Enjoy this tasty and easily customizable dish!