The moment I took the first creamy bite of this Corn Casserole – or Corn Pudding, as some call it – I knew it was destined to become a staple in my kitchen. There’s something irresistibly comforting about how the sweet corn melds with buttery goodness and a subtle savory touch, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners or add a soul-soothing side to your holiday spread, this recipe is wonderfully simple yet incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that easily pleases a crowd without demanding hours of prep, making homemade food feel both effortless and special. If you’ve ever thought cornbread was the only way to enjoy corn at dinner, get ready to have your mind—and taste buds—delighted all over again.
Why Choose Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding)?
Comforting Creaminess: This Corn Casserole melts in your mouth with its rich, buttery texture that feels like a cozy hug. Effortless Prep: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for busy nights. Sweet and Savory Harmony: The natural sweetness of corn balances beautifully with a subtle savory touch. Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed favorite at family dinners and holiday tables alike. Versatile Side: Pairs perfectly with everything from roast chicken to BBQ ribs, elevating any meal with ease.
Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding) Ingredients
For the Corn Mixture
- Creamed corn – Adds luscious sweetness and creaminess that’s key to the dish’s signature texture.
- Whole kernel corn – Provides delightful bursts of crunch and freshness amidst the creamy base.
- Butter – Melted butter infuses the casserole with that rich, comforting flavor every bite deserves.
For the Batter
- Jiffy corn muffin mix – The secret to easy structure and subtle corn flavor, making this casserole uniquely tender.
- Eggs – Bind everything together for the perfect creamy-yet-firm consistency.
- Sour cream – Adds a gentle tang and silkiness, balancing the sweetness with a hint of savory richness.
Optional Enhancements
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Sprinkle in some sharpness for an irresistible melty twist.
- Chopped jalapeños – For those craving a gentle kick and a splash of color in every bite.
This list of Corn Casserole ingredients ensures a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making your homemade corn pudding unforgettable.
How to Make Corn Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F for 10 minutes so your Corn Casserole bakes evenly, encourages a lightly crisp top, and ensures a moist, tender center in every creamy bite.
- Grease Pan: Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier once it’s baked and releases perfectly shaped slices.
For the Corn Mixture: - Combine Corn: In a large bowl, stir together 15 oz creamed corn and 15 oz drained kernel corn until the mixture is uniformly creamy.
- Add Butter: Pour in 4 tbsp melted butter and blend gently, ensuring every kernel gets a buttery, comforting coating throughout the casserole for that signature richness.
For the Batter: - Whisk Batter: In another bowl, whisk one 8.5 oz box of corn muffin mix, 2 large eggs, and 1 cup sour cream until smooth and lump-free.
- Fold Mixtures: Gently fold the corn mixture into the batter until evenly combined, giving each bite that perfect tender-yet-creamy corn pudding texture.
- Bake Casserole: Pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top. Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until golden, set in the center, and lightly crisp on edges.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before slicing to firm up, ensuring neat serving and maximum creaminess in every delicious bite.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped chives or shredded cheddar for vivid color and extra savory pop.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding)?
Imagine a warm, inviting table featuring the delightful creaminess of corn casserole while accentuating it with delicious and complementary sides.
-
Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors and juicy texture pair excellently with the sweet creaminess of corn casserole, creating a satisfying bite. Add a sprinkle of herbs for an aromatic touch, elevating the flavor profile.
-
Sautéed Green Beans: These vibrant, crisp-tender veggies introduce a fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the richness of the casserole. Toss them with garlic and a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish.
-
BBQ Ribs: Tender and saucy, BBQ ribs provide a hearty counterpart to the creamy corn pudding, delivering a delightful sweet-and-savory experience. The rib juices mingle beautifully with every bite of casserole, creating a flavor explosion.
-
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of tang, which cut through the richness of the corn casserole. Each bite feels revitalizing, making it an ideal companion.
-
Cornbread Muffins: For double the corn goodness, serve fluffy cornbread muffins alongside. Their slightly sweet, buttery flavor enhances the overall corn experience while adding a delightful texture to the meal.
-
Sweet Tea: Pair with a glass of homemade sweet tea to complement the comforting nature of corn casserole. The sweetness from the tea harmonizes with the dish’s flavor, offering a refreshing sip between bites.
Make Ahead Options
These Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding) make-ahead tips will save you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the corn mixture and batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the creamed corn, kernel corn, and melted butter, then separately whisk together the corn muffin mix, eggs, and sour cream. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, gently fold the mixtures together, pour into your greased baking dish, and bake as instructed. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious, creamy casserole that’s just as delightful and satisfying, making meal planning a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Corn Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover Corn Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid sogginess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Add a little extra butter for moisture if needed.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Corn Casserole out for more than 2 hours. Keep chilled to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding)
- Use Fresh Corn: Whenever possible, fresh corn kernels add vibrant sweetness and better texture than canned varieties. Drain canned corn well to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Gently folding the corn mixture into the batter prevents a dense casserole, keeping your corn casserole light and tender.
- Butter the Pan Generously: A well-greased dish ensures easy slicing and serving while adding subtle buttery flavor to the edges.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your corn pudding is perfectly baked.
- Let It Rest: Allow at least 5 minutes before slicing; this helps it set for cleaner, creamier servings that hold their shape beautifully.
Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding) Variations
Feel free to make this Corn Casserole your own by trying these delicious twists and swaps!
-
Cheesy Delight: Add 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, extra cheesy version. The richness will take it to another level!
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness of the corn.
-
Herby Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped thyme or chives to brighten up the flavors and add a burst of freshness.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the Jiffy corn muffin mix with a gluten-free alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
-
Creamy Coconut: Replace sour cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist that adds a rich, indulgent flavor and unique sweetness.
-
Savory Bacon: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch that adds depth and a satisfying savory element to each bite.
-
Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and a colorful veggie boost, making the dish even more vibrant.
-
Sweet Concentration: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup into the batter for a sweeter profile, making it a fantastic side dish to contrast with savory mains.
Corn Casserole (Corn Pudding) Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my corn is fresh enough for the Corn Casserole?
Fresh corn should smell sweet and have plump, juicy kernels with no dark spots or shriveling. If using canned corn, make sure it’s well-drained to keep the casserole from becoming watery.
How long can I store leftover Corn Casserole in the fridge?
Leftover Corn Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation that can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Corn Casserole, and how do I do it properly?
Absolutely! Freeze your Corn Casserole for up to 3 months by first letting it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
What if my Corn Casserole turns out too runny or dense?
If too runny, it might be from excess liquid—try draining canned corn well and avoid adding extra sour cream beyond the recipe. For dense casserole, gently fold the corn mixture into the batter instead of stirring vigorously to keep it light and tender.
Is Corn Casserole safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe contains dairy, eggs, and corn, so it’s not suitable for pets or those with allergies to these ingredients. Always check with your guests beforehand and consider substitutions if needed, like using dairy-free sour cream or egg replacers for dietary restrictions.
The Best Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat to 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, stir together creamed corn and drained kernel corn until creamy.
- Pour in melted butter and blend gently.
- In another bowl, whisk together corn muffin mix, eggs, and sour cream until smooth.
- Gently fold corn mixture into the batter until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
