Southern Corn Casserole: The Easiest 3-Step Recipe!

Table of Contents

• What is Southern Corn Casserole?
• Why You’ll Love This Easy Corn Casserole
• The Easiest 3-Step Southern Corn Casserole Recipe!
  • Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  • Step 2: Combine and Mix
  • Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• Tips for the Perfect Corn Casserole
• Serving Suggestions
• Variations and Add-ins
• Storage Instructions
• F.A.Q

Welcome to the ultimate guide for making a truly delightful side dish! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of Southern Corn Casserole: The Easiest 3-Step Recipe! This classic comfort food is a staple at potlucks, holidays, and family dinners throughout the South, and for good reason. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, bursting with creamy, sweet corn flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you know it as corn pudding, corn soufflé, or just “that amazing corn dish,” this recipe promises delicious results with minimal effort. It’s perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, offering a taste of authentic Southern hospitality right in your kitchen.

What is Southern Corn Casserole?

Southern Corn Casserole is a beloved side dish originating from the Southern United States. It’s often described as a cross between a creamy corn pudding and a savory cornbread, offering a unique texture that’s both soft and slightly firm. Made primarily with whole kernel corn, creamed corn, a binding agent (often cornbread mix), dairy, and sometimes cheese, it bakes up into a golden, bubbly dish.

Unlike a traditional pudding, this cornbread casserole typically holds its shape when served, making it ideal for scooping. It’s a versatile dish, sometimes sweetened, sometimes savory, but always comforting and rich.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Corn Casserole

There are countless reasons to adore this recipe for Southern Corn Casserole. First and foremost, its simplicity is unmatched. With just a few common ingredients and three straightforward steps, you can have a magnificent side dish ready for any occasion.

Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. It pairs well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to holiday ham, making it a perfect easy recipe. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, freeing up your time on busy cooking days. The creamy texture and sweet corn flavor appeal to everyone, even picky eaters, guaranteeing clean plates all around!

The Easiest 3-Step Southern Corn Casserole Recipe!

Get ready to master a true Southern cooking classic. This recipe for Southern Corn Casserole makes whipping up a flavorful side dish effortless. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, inviting casserole ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easier serving. Gather all your ingredients to make the mixing process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Combine and Mix

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, melted butter, sour cream, and jiffy mix cornbread mix. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and will bake out.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn
• 1 (8.5-ounce) package Jiffy cornbread mix (or similar brand)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option)
• Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Tips for the Perfect Corn Casserole

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough casserole. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients for a fluffy texture.
• Room Temperature Dairy: For the smoothest texture, allow your sour cream to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Cheese Please: For an extra layer of savory flavor, stir in some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley before serving adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to this side dish.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Southern Corn Casserole is the ultimate companion to a wide array of main dishes. It shines particularly bright during holiday meals alongside roasted turkey or ham. It’s also fantastic with BBQ, fried chicken, or even a simple weeknight roast.

For a complete Southern spread, pair it with green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and biscuits. Don’t forget, it’s also a star at potlucks and picnics, always disappearing fast!

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to get creative with your corn casserole! Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

• Spicy Kick: Add a can of drained diced green chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Bacon Bliss: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory touch to your cornbread casserole.
• Onion & Pepper: Sauté finely diced onion and bell pepper before adding them to the mix for extra depth.
• Sweet Touch: For a sweeter profile, add a tablespoon or two of sugar, or use a sweeter style of cornbread mix.
• Cream Cheese: Swap out half the sour cream for softened cream cheese for an even richer, tangier casserole.

Storage Instructions

Leftover Southern Corn Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

This casserole also freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Looking for more amazing dessert and baking recipes? Read our in-depth guide here. Explore the rich history of Southern cuisine and its impact on American culture at Southern Living.

F.A.Q

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, absolutely! If using fresh corn, you’ll need about 3 cups of kernels. For frozen corn, make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent a watery casserole. You’ll still want to include creamed corn for the classic texture and sweetness of this corn casserole.

What’s the difference between corn casserole and corn pudding?

While often used interchangeably, corn pudding typically has a more custard-like, softer consistency, often relying on more eggs and milk. Corn casserole, especially one using a cornbread mix, tends to be a bit firmer and more cake-like, though still very moist and tender. This recipe leans towards the casserole side, offering a delightful blend of textures.

Can I make this corn casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this Southern Corn Casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish! You can assemble the mixture the day before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. This makes holiday meal prep a breeze!