# Crockpot Corn Casserole: The Ultimate Easy Side Dish

Crockpot Corn Casserole: The Ultimate Easy Side Dish

Discover the ultimate easy side dish with this incredible crockpot corn casserole recipe. It is absolutely perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any family gathering. This classic comfort food appeals to everyone, bringing a delightful blend of flavors and textures to your table. You will love its creamy, sweet, and savory profile, making this crockpot corn casserole a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Corn Casserole

This simple crockpot corn casserole recipe quickly becomes a favorite for many great reasons:

• Frees Oven Space: Keep your oven open for other dishes, especially during busy holidays.
• Minimal Effort: Enjoy super easy, hands-on prep time, allowing you more time to relax.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish everyone loves, from kids to adults, ensuring an empty dish every time.
• Perfect Balance: Experience a delightful sweet and savory flavor that complements any meal.
• Event Ready: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or major holiday feasts.
• Creamy Texture: Each bite offers a wonderfully moist and creamy consistency.

Understanding the guidelines from the USDA helps ensure safe practices for slow cookers for dishes like this casserole.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your perfect crockpot corn casserole:

• 2 (8.5 ounce) boxes corn muffin mix
• 2 (14.75 ounce) cans cream-style sweet corn
• 2 (15 ounce) cans whole kernel sweet corn, drained
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup milk
• 1/3 cup honey (or granulated sugar)
• 1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream

Notes & Substitutions

• Corn Muffin Mix: Jiffy or Martha White brands work wonderfully for this recipe.
• Sweeteners: Adjust the amount of honey or sugar to suit your taste preference.
• Dairy: For a dairy-free option, substitute plant-based milk and sour cream. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.
• Corn: Fresh or frozen corn works well. If using fresh, blanch it first. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid.
• Flavor Boost: Add finely chopped jalapeños for a delightful spicy kick.

Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this fantastic corn casserole in your slow cooker.

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula
• 3.5-quart casserole slow cooker (or 4-quart oval slow cooker)
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your easy crockpot corn casserole. It’s incredibly simple and yields delicious results every time.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, add the corn muffin mix, both cans of cream-style sweet corn, drained whole kernel sweet corn, melted salted butter, beaten eggs, milk, honey (or sugar), and sour cream. Use a whisk or spatula to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Mix until just incorporated and ensure there are no dry spots of muffin mix. Avoid overmixing the batter for the best texture.

Step 2: Prepare Slow Cooker Generously spray the interior of your 3.5-quart casserole crock pot or 4-quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Carefully pour the mixed batter into the prepared slow cooker. Spread the batter evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 3: Cook in Slow Cooker Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook your crockpot corn casserole on the LOW setting for 4 to 6 hours. Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. When cooking on HIGH, monitor it closely, especially with newer slow cooker models, as some run very hot and can burn the edges. The casserole is ready when the edges are set and the center is mostly firm but might still have a slight jiggle.

Step 4: Serve Once cooked, your delicious crockpot corn casserole is ready to serve. Spoon it warm directly from the slow cooker onto plates. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley if desired, adding a touch of color. Enjoy this comforting side dish!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving the perfect crockpot corn casserole is easy with these helpful tips.

• Slow Cooker Type: Casserole-style slow cookers with wider, shallower inserts often yield the best results for casseroles, promoting even cooking.
• Metal Inserts: If your slow cooker has a metal insert, be mindful. Metal heats up quickly, so always cook on the LOW setting to prevent burning.
• Oven Method: No slow cooker? Bake in a 9×13-inch pan at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, until golden brown and set.
• Doneness Check: The casserole is done when the edges are firm and the center no longer looks wet. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
• Prevent Burning: Newer slow cooker models can run hotter. If cooking on HIGH, check frequently to avoid overcooking or burning the edges.
• Moisture Control: A little condensation is normal. To prevent a soggy top, carefully wipe any accumulated moisture from the inside of the lid periodically.
• Doubling Recipe: It is not recommended to double this recipe in a single crockpot. A larger volume can lead to uneven cooking, with the center remaining uncooked while the edges burn.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

This versatile crockpot corn casserole pairs well with many main dishes and offers convenient storage options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy side dish alongside holiday roast chicken, succulent turkey, baked ham, or classic BBQ. It also makes a wonderful addition to any weeknight dinner or potluck.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover crockpot corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Tips

Gently reheat refrigerated leftovers in the microwave until warm, or in an oven set to 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw first in the refrigerator, then follow the same reheating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Cheesy: Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese or a Mexican cheese blend for a gooey texture.
• Savory: Add 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon bits, or a handful of fresh chopped chives just before serving.
• Spicy: Mix in a can of diced green chilies (drained) or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Herbs: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, sage, or rosemary for an earthy flavor profile.

Nutrition

Beyond its delicious taste, corn offers several impressive health benefits.

Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed. Values may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities used.

FAQ

• Can I double this recipe?

  No, it is not recommended to double this recipe in a single crockpot. It may lead to uneven cooking, with parts burning and others remaining undercooked.

• What kind of corn muffin mix should I use?

  Jiffy or Martha White corn muffin mix are both excellent choices for this particular recipe.

• Can I make this dairy-free?

  Yes, you can substitute plant-based milk and sour cream. Be aware that the texture and flavor might vary slightly from the original.

• Is this more like a casserole or cornbread?

  This dish is a delightful blend of both: it’s moist and creamy like a traditional casserole, but with the distinct, comforting flavor of cornbread.

• Do I drain the canned corn?

  Yes, you should drain the whole kernel corn. However, use the creamed corn directly from the can without draining.

• Can I prepare this crockpot corn casserole ahead of time?

  You can assemble the batter and refrigerate it overnight. Add an extra 30-60 minutes to the cook time when cooking from cold. For potlucks, use the “warm” setting after cooking.

Conclusion

This easy crockpot corn casserole recipe truly simplifies meal preparation, making it a perfect addition to any busy schedule. Its irresistible creamy, sweet, and savory flavor profile ensures it will be a beloved side dish for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual family dinners. We encourage you to try this incredibly simple and delicious recipe soon! Please share your comments, ratings, and how this fantastic crockpot corn casserole turned out for you!