Get ready for the easiest side dish ever! This classic corn casserole is a beloved staple, especially around the holidays or for any family meal. Thanks to a simple Jiffy mix, preparing this creamy, savory bake is wonderfully straightforward and quick. You’ll love how easily you can whip up this delightful dish, perfect for everything from festive gatherings to simple weeknight dinners. It is an ideal addition to any menu, bringing comforting flavor and a homemade touch to your table with minimal effort. This recipe simplifies baking for even the busiest parents and beginners.
Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole
This amazing corn casserole will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen for so many fantastic reasons. Its effortless preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- Quick and simple preparation: You only need a few minutes to combine everything before it bakes to golden perfection.
- Crowd-pleasing side dish: Everyone raves about this comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying bake, making it a hit for any gathering.
- Versatile for any meal: It pairs perfectly with holiday feasts like Thanksgiving turkey or simple weeknight proteins like roasted chicken.
- Great make-ahead option: Prepare the mixture in advance, saving precious time on busy days or when entertaining guests.
- Minimal dirty dishes: Everything mixes efficiently in one single bowl, making your cleanup routine incredibly fast and simple.
Ingredients
Making this comforting corn casserole requires just a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. You probably have most of these pantry staples at home already, making this recipe even more convenient for busy cooks. For more insight into the history and widespread appeal of this popular baking mix, learn about the origins of Jiffy Mix from Chelsea Milling Company.
- 14.75 oz. creamed corn
- 15.25 oz. whole kernel sweet corn (drained)
- 8.5 oz. Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 8 oz. sour cream
- 1 stick butter (melted)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Notes & Substitutions
Always drain the whole kernel corn thoroughly to prevent a watery corn casserole outcome; excess liquid can compromise the texture. For the absolute best melt and superior flavor, we highly recommend shredding your own cheddar cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded varieties. You can easily substitute frozen corn for canned whole kernel corn; just be sure to thaw and drain it exceptionally well before use. Plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream works as an alternative for full-fat sour cream, but be aware that full-fat offers the richest texture and taste. Add a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar if you prefer a sweeter corn bake, especially if serving with ham or other savory dishes.
Equipment
Gather these basic kitchen tools to make your easy corn casserole recipe a breeze. Having these items ready ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, whether baking in the oven or using a slow cooker.
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch casserole dish OR 10-inch cast iron skillet
- Rubber spatula or spoon for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Slow cooker/Crock Pot for an alternative hands-off cooking method.
Instructions
Preparing your homemade corn casserole is incredibly simple, whether you prefer using your oven for a traditional bake or a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach. Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions for a perfect dish.
Oven Method
- Preheat Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the middle position. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to come to temperature fully.
- Prepare Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps with easy serving.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, thoroughly drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix the batter.
- Pour Mixture: Pour the prepared casserole mixture evenly into your greased baking dish, spreading it to the edges.
- Initial Bake: Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. At this point, the edges should be visibly set and the center starting to firm up.
- Add Cheese: Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the partially baked casserole.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown, bubbly, and the center is fully set and firm.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the golden, bubbly corn casserole from the oven. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving warm; this allows it to set completely.
Crock Pot Method
- Prepare Crock Pot: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker or Crock Pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the creamed corn, well-drained whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir gently until just blended.
- Pour Mixture: Transfer the mixed casserole batter into the greased Crock Pot, spreading it evenly.
- Cook on HIGH: Cook on HIGH setting for 2-3 hours.
- Cook on LOW: Alternatively, cook on LOW setting for 4 hours.
- Stir: Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even heating and prevent any sticking to the bottom or sides of the pot.
- Add Cheese: During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the slow cooker bake. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese melts beautifully and is bubbly.
- Check Doneness: The center of your slow cooker corn casserole should be firm and cooked through when ready. Serve it warm directly from the Crock Pot.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Follow these simple yet crucial tips to ensure your homemade corn casserole turns out perfectly moist, flavorful, and beautifully set every single time you make it.
- Do not overmix: Stir your ingredients gently and only until they are just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the Jiffy mix, leading to a tough or dry texture in your finished dish.
- Drain corn properly: This is vital. Ensure you squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the whole kernel corn before adding it. Excess moisture is the primary culprit behind a watery corn bake.
- Achieve a golden brown top: For that appealing golden crust, if your casserole isn’t browning sufficiently, you can place it under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes. Watch it continuously to prevent burning.
- Prevent a watery texture: Beyond thorough draining, ensure accurate measurements, especially for liquids like sour cream. Too much liquid results in a loose consistency.
- Check for doneness correctly: An inserted toothpick or thin knife near the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should be set and the center firm to the touch.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your easy corn casserole with roasted chicken, BBQ ribs, or a hearty chili. It is also a perfect, comforting addition to any holiday meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Assemble the unbaked corn casserole up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before baking. Store baked leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2-3 months.
Variations
- Add chopped jalapeños for spice, or stir in crumbled bacon bits for a savory boost. Try diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch. Experiment with different cheeses, like Monterey Jack, or add a touch of honey for a sweeter corn bake.
Nutrition
This delightful corn casserole offers a creamy and satisfying addition to your meal. Please note that these are approximate nutritional values per serving and can vary based on specific ingredients, brands used, and any optional additions like cheese or butter. Always refer to your product labels for precise information, especially if you have dietary restrictions. For detailed information on the nutritional content of corn and other ingredients, you can explore the extensive database provided by USDA FoodData Central.
| Nutrition Fact | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20-25g |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40g |
| Protein | 8-10g |
| Sodium | 400-450mg |
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn for this corn bake?
Yes, you certainly can! Thaw the frozen corn completely beforehand and drain it very well to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.
What if I don’t have Jiffy mix?
You can create a homemade substitute using yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, a small amount of sugar, baking powder, and salt. Look for a reliable “homemade corn muffin mix” recipe online.
Why is my corn casserole watery?
This common issue usually happens from not draining the whole kernel corn thoroughly enough, or sometimes from accidental overmixing. Ensure you squeeze out all excess liquid.
Can I add eggs to this recipe?
While not strictly necessary for this particular Jiffy-based recipe, some variations do include eggs. Adding one large egg can contribute to a slightly firmer, more custardy texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, the standard Jiffy corn muffin mix contains wheat flour, meaning this classic recipe is not gluten-free. Seek out a certified gluten-free corn muffin mix or a completely scratch-made, GF-friendly corn bake recipe if you require a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious corn casserole truly embodies simple, comforting side dishes. With its minimal ingredients and wonderfully straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can confidently create a show-stopping dish that tastes homemade. It is perfect for any occasion, from elaborate holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners with the family. We encourage you to try this recipe soon and discover your new favorite, versatile side! We would absolutely love to hear how your corn bake turned out, so please leave a comment and rating below.