There’s something profoundly comforting about a warm, golden Corn & Cheddar Casserole that reminds me of family gatherings in Mama Lou’s kitchen. I still remember the way the scent of melted cheddar and sweet corn would float through the house, luring my sister Ouma and me from our afternoon games. This casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s a spoonful of nostalgia, a taste of tradition, and a celebration of the simple joys that bring us together. Today, I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, hoping it fills your home with the same warmth and love that it always did in ours.
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Why You’ll Love This Corn & Cheddar Casserole
This Corn & Cheddar Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich, creamy melt of sharp cheddar cheese, all baked into a luscious, slightly crunchy-topped dish that’s irresistible. Growing up, Mama Lou’s kitchen was always filled with recipes like this—ones that used humble ingredients but delivered extraordinary comfort.
What makes this casserole so special is its versatility and heartwarming simplicity. It’s perfect as a side for holiday dinners or a satisfying centerpiece for a weeknight meal. I often think of how Ouma and I would sneak bites right from the baking dish, the cheese strings stretching between us and laughter filling the room. This recipe captures that spirit perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Corn & Cheddar Casserole
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth
Substitution tip: If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream, and you can swap mayonnaise for a lighter mayo or even a bit of olive oil for richness without heaviness. For cheese, Monterey Jack or a mild Colby cheese works beautifully too.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 280 per serving (based on 8 servings)
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
These numbers reflect the balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with the natural sweetness and fiber from the corn. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly nourishing, especially when paired with a fresh salad or roasted veggies.
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Ultimate Comfort Food Corn & Cheddar Casserole Recipe
Learn how to make delicious Corn & Cheddar Casserole. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth
Substitution tip: If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream, and you can swap mayonnaise for a lighter mayo or even a bit of olive oil for richness without heaviness. For cheese, Monterey Jack or a mild Colby cheese works beautifully too.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s slow, deliberate hands—she never rushed, making sure every corner was perfect.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and eggs until smooth. This creamy base is the heart of the casserole, just like the love Mama Lou stirred into every meal.
- Add the melted butter and sugar, mixing well. The sugar may seem unexpected, but it beautifully enhances the corn’s natural sweetness—Ouma swears by it!
- Stir in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese, folding gently to combine without breaking up the corn.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. This dry mixture gives the casserole its tender crumb and subtle rise.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; I remember Mama Lou always said, “Let the batter rest easy,” and her casseroles turned out just right.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean and the edges are bubbling softly.
- Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This wait is the hardest part—Ouma and I would always sneak quick tastes, but Mama Lou gently reminded us to be patient.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Corn & Cheddar Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This step always reminds me of Mama Lou’s slow, deliberate hands—she never rushed, making sure every corner was perfect.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, and eggs until smooth. This creamy base is the heart of the casserole, just like the love Mama Lou stirred into every meal.
- Add the melted butter and sugar, mixing well. The sugar may seem unexpected, but it beautifully enhances the corn’s natural sweetness—Ouma swears by it!
- Stir in the corn kernels and shredded cheddar cheese, folding gently to combine without breaking up the corn.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. This dry mixture gives the casserole its tender crumb and subtle rise.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; I remember Mama Lou always said, “Let the batter rest easy,” and her casseroles turned out just right.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean and the edges are bubbling softly.
- Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This wait is the hardest part—Ouma and I would always sneak quick tastes, but Mama Lou gently reminded us to be patient.
Tips for Making the Best Corn & Cheddar Casserole
Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets to ensure your Corn & Cheddar Casserole turns out perfectly every time. One of the most important is to use fresh or good-quality frozen corn. The sweet, juicy kernels are what make this dish shine. I remember when Mama Lou would pick corn fresh from the garden, and that flavor is unbeatable. Learn more: Irresistible Cheddar Corn Spoonbread Recipe You Need to Try
Don’t skip the rest time after baking—it lets the casserole firm up and enhances the melding of flavors. Also, resist the urge to overmix your batter; gentle folding keeps the texture light and tender.
If you want a little extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. Mama Lou never added this, but Ouma and I discovered it one holiday, and it’s become a new favorite tradition.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This casserole is a true crowd-pleaser and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. When I serve it, I love to bring out a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted chicken or glazed ham, especially during holiday meals where family gathers around the table.
One of my fondest memories is a summer picnic where Mama Lou packed this casserole alongside her famous fried chicken and fresh lemonade. The laughter, the sun, and the food made for a perfect day—something I hope you can recreate with your loved ones.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Absolutely! This Corn & Cheddar Casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method preserves the texture better than the microwave, which can sometimes dry it out.
If you want to freeze it, bake the casserole first, cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I remember once making a double batch to freeze for busy weeks ahead—Mama Lou would be proud of this kind of foresight!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Corn & Cheddar Casserole?
The main ingredients for Corn & Cheddar Casserole include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Corn & Cheddar Casserole?
The total time to make Corn & Cheddar Casserole includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Corn & Cheddar Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, Corn & Cheddar Casserole can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Corn & Cheddar Casserole?
Corn & Cheddar Casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Corn & Cheddar Casserole suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Corn & Cheddar Casserole may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Making this Corn & Cheddar Casserole always brings me back to those cozy afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where food was a language of love and togetherness. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of family bonds, traditions, and the joy found in simple, honest cooking. Whether you’re sharing it at a holiday feast or a quiet dinner at home, I hope this casserole fills your table—and your heart—with warmth and happiness.
