The holiday season often calls for warm, comforting dishes that bring everyone together around the table. While the main course usually steals the spotlight, a truly memorable meal is built upon equally spectacular side dishes. Look no further than this incredibly creamy and cheesy corn casserole – a beloved family favorite that promises to be the star side of any festive spread. Forget complicated recipes; this delightful dish comes together quickly and effortlessly, proving that homemade perfection doesn’t have to be stressful. Crafted from simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand, this from-scratch corn casserole is so irresistibly delicious, your guests will be begging for the recipe!
This baked creamed corn casserole stands out because it achieves that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and utterly creamy without relying on any boxed cornbread mix. The secret lies in a rich, homemade base and a generous layer of cheese that bakes to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, making it an ideal accompaniment for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy weeknight meal. Its appealing texture and rich flavor profile ensure it’s a hit with both adults and children alike, promising clean plates every time.
If you’re curating your holiday menu and seeking other delectable side dishes that pair beautifully with this corn sensation, consider adding my Roasted Brussels Sprouts for a touch of savory green goodness, or my Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes for another comforting and slightly sweet option. These recipes are designed to complement each other, creating a diverse and flavorful holiday spread that will impress all your guests.
Why This Creamed Corn Casserole Will Become Your New Favorite
Discover the compelling reasons why this creamy corn casserole is destined to become a regular fixture in your recipe rotation:
- Effortlessly Simple to Prepare: You’ll be amazed at how easily this dish comes together. The process involves a few straightforward steps: simmering the corn in a dairy base, creating a quick roux for thickening, combining them, and then baking to cheesy perfection. It’s a low-stress recipe perfect for busy holidays or any time you need a delicious side without the fuss.
- Crafted with Common Pantry Staples: One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it utilizes ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. From frozen corn and basic dairy products to flour and seasonings, these accessible components mean you can whip up this casserole on a whim. It’s a lifesaver when unexpected guests arrive, or when you need a last-minute addition to your meal plan.
- Unforgettably Delicious and Crowd-Pleasing: This isn’t just any corn casserole; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of naturally sweet corn with rich cream, savory garlic, and a decadent layer of melted cheese creates an irresistible taste that appeals to everyone. Its creamy texture and cheesy crust are particularly popular with kids, guaranteeing requests for seconds and the recipe itself!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: While it shines during holiday feasts like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this creamed corn casserole is equally at home at summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a comforting side to a weeknight roast chicken. Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire year-round.
- Homemade Goodness Without the Hassle: Achieving that rich, from-scratch taste might seem daunting, but this recipe proves it can be incredibly simple. You get all the warmth and flavor of a homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen, making it a truly rewarding cooking experience.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Corn Casserole
To create this magnificent creamy corn casserole, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich taste and luxurious texture:
- Frozen Sweet Corn: Opt for high-quality frozen sweet corn for ultimate convenience and consistent flavor year-round. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand, saving you precious prep time. The freezing process locks in its natural sweetness and crisp texture, making it perfect for this casserole.
- Dairy Blend: A combination of rich heavy whipping cream and creamy whole milk forms the luscious base of our casserole. This blend ensures a velvety smooth texture and a deeply satisfying richness that defines the dish.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned to your taste. It’s essential for building the roux and adding a foundational richness.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the casserole with an aromatic, savory depth. While pre-minced garlic can be a time-saver, freshly minced garlic offers a brighter, more pungent flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Just a small amount of all-purpose flour is key to creating a simple roux, which acts as the thickening agent for our creamy corn mixture, giving it that perfect, spoonable consistency.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar helps to balance the savory elements and enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both comforting and delightful.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of dried herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary) adds a wonderful aromatic complexity and a touch of herbaceous warmth. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can easily create your own blend from individual dried herbs.
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out all the flavors. Remember to taste and adjust according to your preference throughout the cooking process.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the ultimate cheesy topping, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended. Its sharp, nutty flavor and ability to melt beautifully create a golden-brown crust that adds a fantastic textural contrast.
- Crushed Red Chili Flakes: A pinch of crushed red chili flakes is optional but highly encouraged to introduce a subtle warmth and a gentle kick that complements the sweetness of the corn without overpowering it.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley: Used as a garnish, fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish upon serving.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Creamed Corn Casserole
Creating this irresistible creamy corn casserole is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfectly rich and cheesy side dish:
- Gently Simmer the Corn: Begin by combining the frozen sweet corn, heavy whipping cream, and whole milk in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the dairy from scorching or forming a film on the surface, ensuring a smooth and even base.
- Prepare the Flavorful Roux: While the corn is simmering, melt the unsalted butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly roasted – be careful not to burn it. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for another minute, forming a smooth, thick paste known as a roux. This will be the thickening agent for your casserole.
- Combine and Thicken the Mixture: Carefully add the prepared roux to the pot of simmering corn and dairy. Stir continuously to incorporate the roux thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until it visibly thickens to a creamy, luscious consistency. The corn should be tender, and the sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Season to Perfection: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, Italian seasonings, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, proper seasoning is key to a truly outstanding dish.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the creamy corn mixture into a casserole dish suitable for baking. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by a pinch of crushed red chili flakes for a slight warmth and visual appeal.
- Broil to Golden Brown: Place the casserole dish in the oven under the broiler. Watch it very closely for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the Parmesan cheese is beautifully melted and develops inviting golden-brown spots and a bubbly crust. Broilers can heat quickly, so vigilant monitoring is crucial to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once the casserole is perfectly golden, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color. Serve your irresistible creamy corn casserole immediately while it’s warm and bubbling, allowing everyone to savor its cheesy, comforting goodness.
Expert Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Creamed Corn
Achieving the perfect creamy corn casserole is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Continuous Stirring is Key: When simmering the corn in the dairy mixture, it’s crucial to stir frequently. This prevents the dairy from sticking and burning at the bottom of the pot, and also stops a skin or film from forming on the surface, ensuring a smooth and homogenous base.
- Adjust Salt Based on Butter: If you only have salted butter on hand, make sure to omit or significantly reduce any additional salt called for in the recipe. You can always add more salt later, but you can’t take it away!
- Add a Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider dicing and adding some fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the corn mixture before transferring it to the casserole dish and topping with cheese. It adds a wonderful layer of flavor.
- Customize the Dairy: While the recipe specifies heavy whipping cream and whole milk, you can certainly experiment. For an even richer casserole, you can use all heavy cream, or for a slightly lighter version, use a larger proportion of whole milk.
- No Thawing Necessary for Frozen Corn: One of the beauties of using frozen corn is that there’s absolutely no need to thaw it beforehand. It will thaw rapidly and seamlessly once added to the hot dairy mixture on the stovetop, saving you valuable preparation time.
- Monitor the Broiler Closely: When broiling the casserole to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese crust, keep a very close eye on it. Broilers work quickly, and cheese can go from perfectly melted and golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stay vigilant!
- Choose the Right Casserole Dish: A shallow, wide casserole dish will allow for more surface area, resulting in a larger crispy, cheesy crust. A deeper dish will yield a creamier, softer interior. Choose based on your preference.
- Freshly Grate Your Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan (or any other cheese) melts more smoothly and has a superior flavor, free from anti-caking agents. This small step makes a big difference in the final texture and taste.
- Prep Ahead for Ease: You can prepare the corn mixture and transfer it to the casserole dish ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add the cheese and broil before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamed Corn Casserole
Here are answers to some common questions about making and storing this delicious creamy corn casserole:
How to store leftover creamed corn casserole?
If you find yourself with any delicious leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can you freeze corn casserole?
While technically possible, I generally don’t recommend freezing this particular corn casserole. The texture of the creamy sauce and the corn kernels can sometimes become a bit watery or grainy once thawed and reheated, affecting the overall quality. Given how quick and easy it is to make, it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can you use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cheese topping to your liking. Instead of just Parmesan, you can experiment with mozzarella, sharp cheddar, provolone, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each will lend a slightly different flavor and melting quality, so have fun exploring what suits your taste buds best!
Can you make corn casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for holiday meal prep! Prepare the recipe as directed, pour the creamy corn mixture into your baking dish, but do not add the cheese topping yet. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven, uncover, add the cheese, and then bake/broil as instructed.
How to make homemade Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have a pre-made Italian seasoning blend, it’s incredibly easy to whip up your own. In a small jar or bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried sage, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Mix well, and use this aromatic blend in place of the store-bought Italian seasoning.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, to make this creamy corn casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the roux with an equal amount of your preferred gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it’s a blend suitable for thickening sauces. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What is the ideal serving size?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings as a generous side dish. For a larger crowd, or if it’s part of a more extensive meal, you may want to double or triple the recipe accordingly. The ingredient amounts can be easily scaled up while following the same cooking process.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Creamed Corn Casserole?
This versatile creamy corn casserole complements a wide array of main courses. Its rich and comforting profile makes it an excellent partner for many proteins and other sides. Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve alongside this amazing dish:
- Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast: The tender, savory turkey provides a perfect contrast to the creamy sweetness of the corn, creating a classic and satisfying meal, especially for holiday gatherings.
- Oven Roasted Spatchcock Chicken: A beautifully roasted chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat pairs wonderfully. The casserole adds a comforting, indulgent element to the meal.
- Oven Baked Roasted Whole Chicken: Similar to the spatchcock chicken, a traditional whole roasted chicken benefits from the creamy, cheesy side, making for a hearty and family-friendly dinner.
- Chicken Taco Casserole: For a more casual and flavorful pairing, this corn casserole offers a cooling, creamy counterpoint to the vibrant spices of a chicken taco casserole. It adds an extra layer of Tex-Mex comfort.
- Holiday Ham or Prime Rib: Its sweetness and richness make it an ideal partner for a salty glazed ham or a luxurious prime rib, balancing the intense flavors of these festive main dishes.
- Grilled Steaks or Pork Chops: For a summer meal, the casserole can be a delightful addition to grilled meats, offering a comforting and flavorful side that stands up to smoky flavors.
- Vegetarian Options: Pair it with a hearty mushroom loaf or a robust vegetable pot pie for a satisfying vegetarian spread. The corn casserole itself is meat-free and incredibly flavorful.
I genuinely hope you cherish every recipe I share with you, and this delightful Creamed Corn Casserole is no exception. It’s truly a special dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Please give it a try, savor every spoonful, and consider leaving a rating and sharing your experience with friends and family! Your feedback means the world.
If you fall in love with this recipe, please take a moment to leave a star rating and a comment below. It helps other home cooks discover and enjoy this delicious creation! Don’t forget to use my hashtag when you share your delicious recreations on Instagram so I can see them. And for all my latest culinary adventures, recipes, and social posts, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST. Happy cooking!
Baked Creamed Corn Casserole
This Creamed Corn Casserole bake is made with a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have on hand. Super cheesy and creamy, this casserole is a perfect side dish for holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. frozen sweet corn
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsps. unsalted butter
- 1 tsps. garlic, minced
- 2 tbsps. all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsps. sugar
- 1 tsp. Italian seasonings
- ¾ tsp. fresh ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp. crushed red chili flakes
- ¾ tsp. Salt, to taste
- Chopped parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- In a medium heavy bottom pot add sweet corn, whipping cream and milk and bring them to boil. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile prepare the roux by heating a separate pan with butter and garlic. Cook for a minute until the butter is melted and the garlic is roasted. Sprinkle flour and stir it to form a smooth and thick mixture.
- Add the roux to the corn simmering pot. Allow the corn to cook further for 3-5 minutes until everything comes together thick and creamy.
- Stir in the sugar, Italian seasonings, black pepper and salt.
- Transfer the prepared corn mixture to a casserole dish. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly and crushed red peppers on top.
- Place the casserole dish in the oven under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted with some brown spots. Keep a good eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once done, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure when you simmer the corn in the dairy, stir frequently to prevent scorching or film formation.
- If using salted butter, reduce or omit additional salt.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños before topping with cheese.
- You can use all cream in place of milk for a richer result.
- No need to thaw frozen corn; it will thaw quickly on the stovetop.
- Watch the casserole closely under the broiler to avoid burning the cheese.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 37g |
Protein: 8g |
Fat: 32g |
Saturated Fat: 19g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 9g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 107mg |
Sodium: 170mg |
Potassium: 366mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 13g |
Vitamin A: 1532IU |
Vitamin C: 7mg |
Calcium: 183mg |
Iron: 1mg
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