Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's guaranteed to impress? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy Ritz corn casserole! This recipe is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly flavorful, incredibly easy to make, and always a hit at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. This delicious side dish is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and easy recipes that deliver big on taste. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to elevate your next meal with this amazing Ritz corn casserole!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cream style corn
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Combining the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream style corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until everything is well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Adding the Ritz Crackers:
- Gently stir in the crushed Ritz crackers. Don't overmix; you want some texture.
Baking the Casserole:
-
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top. This creates a golden-brown crust that's simply irresistible.
-
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The center should be set, and the top should be beautifully browned.
Serving and Enjoying:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut and serve. Serve warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Tips for the Best Ritz Corn Casserole:
- For extra flavor: Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture 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: You can assemble the casserole a few hours before baking. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Crispy topping: For an extra-crispy topping, sprinkle some extra crushed Ritz crackers over the melted butter before baking.
Variations:
- Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for a spicy and savory twist.
- Mexican Corn Casserole: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans, some diced green chilies, and a packet of taco seasoning. Top with crumbled cotija cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
This Ritz corn casserole recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic way to enjoy the best of seasonal produce. Enjoy!