The Ultimate 5-Ingredient Creamed Corn Casserole: Your Go-To Holiday Side Dish
Discover the magic of effortless cooking with this incredibly easy Creamed Corn Casserole recipe. A true kitchen hero, it demands only five simple ingredients and transforms into a delightfully creamy, savory, and subtly sweet side dish that perfectly complements any meal. Whether you’re planning a quick family dinner or preparing a grand holiday feast, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser, delivering comforting flavors with minimal fuss.
Why This Creamed Corn Casserole Will Become Your Favorite
Imagine a dish so simple, yet so profoundly satisfying, that it earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. This creamed corn casserole is precisely that. Its appeal lies in its straightforward preparation: combine all ingredients in a bowl, transfer to a baking dish, and let your oven do the rest. In approximately 45 minutes, you’re rewarded with a perfectly cooked side dish that tastes like it took hours of effort.
The beauty of this recipe extends beyond its ease. It relies on pantry staples, making it accessible any night of the week when you need a quick and delicious accompaniment. This versatility makes it ideal for everything from casual weeknight meals to special holiday gatherings. It’s a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it a beloved comfort food for many.
We often pair this delightful corn casserole with heartier main courses. For example, it’s a fantastic match for succulent Southern Style Green Beans, creating a classic, soul-satisfying meal. This week, we enjoyed it alongside a comforting Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers and a hearty Stove Top Stuffing Meatloaf, demonstrating its adaptability as a complementary vegetable side. Looking ahead, we envision it as the perfect partner for a hot bowl of Crockpot Chicken Chili for a truly irresistible combination.
Often referred to as corn pudding or even corn soufflé by some, this dish is universally adored, especially during festive seasons. It consistently ranks among our favorite Christmas and Thanksgiving side dishes, beloved by family and friends alike. Its rich, creamy texture and delightful corn flavor make it an essential addition to any holiday table, or simply any day you crave a delicious corn side.
Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Creamed Corn Casserole
Crafting this incredible creamed corn casserole requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. The magic truly happens when these simple components combine to create a dish bursting with flavor and comforting texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: This is the secret weapon for a slightly sweeter, tender casserole with a perfect crumb. Unlike regular cornbread mix, Jiffy’s muffin mix provides a unique sweetness and texture that sets this casserole apart.
- Whole Kernel Corn: Provides bursts of sweet corn flavor and a delightful textural contrast. Look for cans labeled “sweet corn” if “whole kernel” isn’t explicitly stated, as they are often the same product. Be sure to drain this completely before adding to the mix.
- Creamed Corn: The cornerstone of the casserole’s creamy texture and rich corn flavor. Do NOT drain this can; its liquid is essential for the casserole’s consistency.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy depth, incredible moisture, and contributes to the casserole’s wonderfully tender and fluffy internal structure.
- Butter: Essential for richness and flavor. Melted butter ensures it seamlessly integrates into the mixture, contributing to that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Optional Add-Ins to Elevate Your Casserole:
- Shredded Cheese: For a deliciously cheesy corn casserole, stir in about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend) with the other ingredients. It melts into gooey perfection, adding another layer of flavor.
- Eggs: To achieve an even lighter, more souffle-like texture, incorporate 2 beaten eggs into the mixture. This is a classic trick for a truly airy corn pudding.
- Sugar: If you prefer a distinctly sweeter profile, feel free to add 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This is especially recommended if using a less sweet cornbread mix instead of Jiffy.
- Bacon and Jalapeños: For a savory and spicy kick, crumbled crispy bacon and diced fresh or canned jalapeños (seeded for less heat) make fantastic additions. Combine these with shredded cheddar cheese for a Southwestern-inspired delight.
- Seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference and the natural saltiness of your other ingredients.
As you can see, this cornbread casserole is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it with your favorite flavors and ingredients.
Essential Equipment for Easy Preparation
While the recipe itself is simple, having the right tools on hand can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Microwave Silicone Cover: A must-have for melting butter safely and cleanly in the microwave. These covers prevent messy splatters, saving you cleanup time and ensuring all your melted butter makes it into the recipe.
- Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial to comfortably combine all the ingredients without spills. We particularly love a glass batter bowl with a handle, which offers stability and makes mixing easier. Ensure your bowl is large enough to accommodate the full volume of ingredients.
- 8×8 Baking Dish: This size is perfect for the standard recipe, yielding about 8 servings. If you plan to double the recipe for a larger gathering, you’ll need either two 8×8 dishes or one larger 9×13 casserole dish. Keep in mind that a larger dish will require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time, and metal baking dishes might slightly alter cooking times compared to glass.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy wooden spoon or a flexible rubber spatula works best for thoroughly mixing the ingredients and ensuring everything is scraped cleanly from the bowl into the baking dish, minimizing waste.
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray: A quick spray of your baking dish prevents the casserole from sticking, making serving a breeze and cleanup much simpler.
- Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety first! Investing in good quality, heat-resistant potholders is always a wise choice when handling hot dishes from the oven.
How to Make Perfect Creamed Corn Casserole: Step-by-Step
Making this casserole is incredibly straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these simple steps for a consistently delicious result every time:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment. This mise en place ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In your large mixing bowl, add the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, drained whole kernel corn, undrained creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Ensure all components are ready to be thoroughly incorporated.
Step 3: Mix Until Smooth
Using your wooden spoon or spatula, stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined and form a uniform mixture. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl to ensure no dry pockets of corn muffin mix remain. Mix just until combined; overmixing can sometimes lead to a tougher texture.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the corn mixture evenly into your greased 8×8 baking dish. Place it into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean. The internal temperature should reach about 200°F (93°C). Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly.
Preparation, Storage, and Reheating Tips
One of the many advantages of this creamed corn casserole is its flexibility when it comes to preparation and storage. You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, and reheat for future enjoyment.
Make-Ahead: This casserole is incredibly make-ahead-friendly, making it perfect for busy holidays or meal prepping. You can assemble the entire dish up to 48 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, pour them into your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature while your oven preheats. Baking time might increase slightly, typically by a few extra minutes, depending on how cold the mixture is.
Storage: Leftover creamed corn casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days.
Freezing: For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Allow the cooked casserole to cool completely. Divide it into individual portions or freeze it in its baking dish (if freezer-safe). Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or transfer to airtight, freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months without significant loss of quality.
How to Reheat: Reheating is simple, whether from the refrigerator or freezer. For refrigerated portions, you can microwave individual servings until heated through. For larger quantities or a crispier texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, usually 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as described for refrigerated portions, or bake directly from frozen at a lower temperature (around 325°F/160°C) for a longer period, covered with foil, until heated through, then uncover for the last few minutes if desired for browning.
Recipe Variations to Suit Every Taste
This creamed corn casserole is a fantastic base for creativity. Explore these variations to tailor the dish to your dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Substitutions for Corn Muffin Mix: While Jiffy corn muffin mix provides a unique sweetness, you can use regular cornbread mix. If you do, we highly recommend adding 1-2 tablespoons of sugar to achieve a similar flavor profile. Some brands may label whole-kernel corn as “sweet corn,” which is perfectly acceptable and works just as well in this recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: This timeless side dish is naturally vegetarian when made with Jiffy Vegetarian Corn Mix. Be aware that the regular Jiffy mix traditionally contains lard, an animal-derived ingredient, so checking the label is essential for strict vegetarians.
- Vegan Option: To transform this into a delectable vegan dish, replace the cornbread mix with a plant-based alternative (ensure it’s lard-free), use dairy-free sour cream (such as a cashew or almond-based version), and substitute the butter with a high-quality plant-based butter or margarine.
- Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap out the standard corn muffin mix for a certified gluten-free corn muffin mix. Many excellent options are available that will provide the same great texture and flavor.
- Alcohol-Free: Our traditional creamed corn casserole is naturally alcohol-free. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and want a boozy twist, some recipes, like Paula Deen’s “Naughty Creamed Corn,” incorporate white wine for an added depth of flavor.
- Serving Size Adjustments: The written recipe yields approximately eight servings, making it perfect for a family meal. For smaller gatherings, you can easily halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish. If you’re hosting a large holiday feast, double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13 casserole dish or two 8×8 baking dishes. Remember to adjust baking times accordingly for larger pans; a 9×13 dish might take an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Make It Spicy: For a delightful kick, integrate chopped green chilies or diced jalapeños (fresh or canned) into the mixture. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a more even distribution of heat.
- Sugar-Free: The base recipe contains around 9 grams of sugar per serving. To make it sugar-free, opt for a sugar-free corn muffin mix and choose canned corn varieties that specify “no sugar added.”
Expert Tips for the Best Creamed Corn Casserole
Achieving the perfect creamed corn casserole is simple when you keep a few key tips in mind:
- Always Preheat: Don’t skip preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a consistent texture from edge to center.
- For a Lighter Texture: Incorporate two beaten eggs into the mixture. This will give your casserole a softer, more souffle-like consistency, particularly appealing to those who prefer a less dense side dish.
- Season to Taste: While the basic ingredients provide plenty of flavor, a sprinkle of salt and a grind of fresh black pepper can truly elevate the taste. Adjust according to your preference.
- Sweetness Control: If you desire a sweeter casserole, particularly if you’re not using Jiffy corn muffin mix, a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar can be added to the mixture.
- Savory Additions: Elevate the savory profile by mixing in cooked, crumbled bacon bits, diced fresh or pickled jalapeños, and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. These additions turn a simple side into a robust and flavorful experience.
- Canned vs. Frozen Corn: This recipe is developed for canned corn. While frozen corn can be used, we recommend thawing and draining it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the casserole’s final texture. We haven’t extensively tested with frozen corn, so results may vary slightly.
- Customize Freely: Remember, this cornbread casserole recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs (like chives or parsley), different cheeses, or even a touch of garlic powder to make it uniquely yours.
- Nutritional Information: Keep in mind that the exact nutritional information, including calories, fat, carbohydrates, and other values, will vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you choose. Always refer to the labels of your products for the most accurate data.
Check out all of our casserole recipes for more delicious inspiration!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Creamed Corn Casserole
This rich, savory, and subtly sweet Creamed Corn Casserole is a versatile star, making it a must-have for any dinner spread, especially during the holidays. Its comforting profile pairs beautifully with a wide array of main courses and other sides. Here are some menu planning suggestions to inspire your next Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive meal:
Complementary Sides:
- Pineapple Stuffing
- Carrot Soufflé
- Crock Pot Mashed Cauliflower
- Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
- Jiffy Cornbread with Sour Cream
- CrockPot Sweet Potato Casserole
- Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
Hearty Main Dishes:
- CrockPot Turkey
- Crock Pot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin
- Crock Pot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage
- Crock Pot Chicken & Stuffing
- Crock Pot Orange Glazed Ham
- Crock Pot Coke Glazed Ham
- Bourbon Baked Ham
Delightful Desserts:
- Eggnog Cookies
- 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack
- Easy Holiday Reindeer Chow
- Church Window Cookies
- No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dip
- Easy Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze
- Ambrosia Salad
- Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball
- Cranberry Fluff Salad
Festive Drinks:
- Eggnog White Russian
- Spiced Cranberry Cocktail
- Cranberry Moscow Mule
- RumChata Pudding Shots
- Pomegranate Breeze Martini
- Mulled Cherry Cider Cocktail
When to Serve This Versatile Casserole
The beauty of Creamed Corn Casserole lies in its versatility. It’s truly a dish for all seasons and occasions:
- Everyday Dinners: Simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet special enough to make any meal feel comforting.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: A guaranteed hit, it travels well and appeals to a broad range of tastes.
- Easter Brunch or Dinner: Its bright corn flavor makes it a lovely addition to a spring holiday meal.
- Thanksgiving Feast: A traditional and beloved staple on many Thanksgiving tables, complementing turkey and other classic trimmings perfectly.
- Christmas Celebrations: Adds a touch of warmth and festive flavor to your Christmas dinner spread.
- Any Holiday Dinner: Truly, this casserole fits seamlessly into any celebratory meal, offering a reliable and delicious side that everyone enjoys.
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re looking for more fantastic side dishes to complete your meals, explore these popular recipes:
- Carrot Soufflé
- Cheesy Ranch Potatoes
- Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole
- Cracker Barrel Carrots
- Shrimp Remoulade
- Easy Macaroni Salad
- Sweet Potato Casserole made with Canned Yams
Don’t miss all of our favorite side dishes for ham!
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Creamed Corn Casserole Recipe
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Ingredients
- 8.5 Ounce Jiffy Cornbread Mix
- 15.25 Ounce Kernel Corn Drained
- 14.75 Ounce Cream Style Corn do not drain
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- ½ cup Butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy Cornbread Mix, drained kernel corn, undrained cream style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Pour the corn mixture into an 8×8 baking dish that has been greased with non-stick spray.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
Kitchen Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl
- 8X8 Pan
- Microwave Cover
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 198