Spice up your next gathering with this incredibly flavorful Jalapeno Corn Casserole! This easy recipe is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or a simple weeknight meal. It's a delicious blend of sweet corn, creamy goodness, and a delightful kick of jalapeno – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to make. Get ready for compliments galore!
Ingredients:
- 2 (15 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/4 cup chopped jalapeno peppers (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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 your casserole releases easily and prevents sticking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. A smooth mixture is key to a consistent casserole texture.
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Add the Corn & Cheese: Gently stir in the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cheddar cheese, cornmeal, and jalapenos. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown on top. The golden-brown top is a great indicator of perfect baking.
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Cool & Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set properly and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Best Jalapeno Corn Casserole:
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers according to your preference. For a milder dish, use less; for extra heat, add more! You can even substitute with milder peppers like poblanos.
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Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all be delicious additions.
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Make it Ahead: This casserole can be made a day ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
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Serving Suggestions: This jalapeno corn casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or simply alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
This Jalapeno Corn Casserole is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a healthy meal option packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking masterpieces. This recipe offers the best recipes experience for both seasoned chefs and culinary novices alike. Enjoy!