If you have a soft spot for comforting, hearty dishes that bring everyone to the table smiling, then you are going to absolutely adore Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe. This dish is a warm hug in food form, combining the sweetness of corn with the richness of melted butter and sharp cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s not just any casserole—it’s a nostalgic, beloved family favorite that turns simple pantry staples into a show-stopping side that pairs beautifully with just about any meal. Once you make it, this recipe will surely become a treasured part of your own family traditions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe so delicious is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how perfectly they work together. Each item adds a special touch, from the creamy texture of the creamed corn to the savory spices that bring it all home.
- Creamed corn (14 oz can): This provides a luscious, silky base that keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
- Whole kernel sweet corn (12 oz can): Adds a delightful pop of sweetness and texture to contrast the creamy element.
- Corn muffin mix (8.5 oz package): Acts as the binder and adds a subtly sweet, cornbread flavor that complements the corn perfectly.
- Sour cream (¾ cup): Brings a tangy richness that balances the sweetness and keeps the casserole tender.
- Butter (½ cup, melted): Adds essential richness and helps to create a beautifully moist texture.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Introduces a gentle savory background note that enhances all the flavors.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Provides depth and warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild kick and balances the richness.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Sprinkled on top for a golden, bubbling, and flavorful finish.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a touch of color and freshness as a final garnish.
How to Make Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will develop a nicely browned outer crust once baked.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the creamed corn, whole kernel sweet corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so every ingredient is well incorporated. This mixture is where all the flavor magic happens, and it’s important to get a consistent blend.
Step 3: Pour and Smooth the Mixture
Transfer the combined mixture into your greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a smooth top layer for even baking. This not only looks appealing but helps the casserole cook uniformly.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the casserole in the oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll want to see the edges pulling away slightly from the pan, and the top turning a lovely light golden brown, indicating it’s perfectly set and ready for the next step.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Finish
About 10 minutes before the casserole is done, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the top. Return it to the oven so the cheese melts beautifully and forms a bubbling, savory crust.
Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Parsley
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note that elevates the dish visually and aroma-wise.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow your Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe to cool for several minutes before serving. This helps it to set fully so each slice holds together perfectly, making plating and sharing much easier.
How to Serve Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh parsley, you can add a sprinkle of finely diced green onions or a dusting of smoked paprika for a bit more color and a subtle smoky flavor. These small touches turn a simple dish into something spectacular.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs like a dream with roasted chicken, baked ham, or even a juicy steak. Its creamy, slightly sweet profile beautifully complements savory mains and adds a cozy, homey vibe to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of sour cream or a handful of crispy fried onions. It makes for an impressive presentation that’s both charming and comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its creamy texture and flavor beautifully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe before baking by wrapping the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this classic anytime life gets busy.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results and more even heating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels work wonderfully in this recipe and will add a naturally sweet, juicy bite. Just make sure to cook or blanch the kernels first to soften them slightly before mixing.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes. The texture might shift a bit, but it will still be deliciously satisfying.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Certainly! Some people like to add diced bell peppers, chopped jalapeños for heat, or even cooked bacon bits. Just keep in mind these additions can alter the flavor balance, so start small and adjust to taste.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when it’s set in the middle, pulling slightly away from the sides of the dish, and the top is lightly golden. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out mostly clean, it’s ready.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the corn muffin mix with a gluten-free cornbread mix or making your own gluten-free blend, you can keep this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe is more than just a side dish. It’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and joy to any meal, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—once you do, it’s hard not to fall in love with the golden, cheesy, tender bites that feel like a pure taste of home.
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Grandma’s Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma’s Corn Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish combining creamed and whole kernel corn with corn muffin mix, sour cream, and a blend of spices. This hearty casserole is perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, topped with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 14 oz can creamed corn
- 12 oz can whole kernel sweet corn
- 8.5 oz package corn muffin mix
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside to prepare for baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, whole kernel sweet corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the corn casserole mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread and smooth the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top develops a light golden brown color.
- Add Cheese Topping: About 10 minutes before the baking time is complete, evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, then continue baking until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Garnish with Parsley: After removing the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Make sure to grease the casserole dish well to prevent sticking.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
