Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving
Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving is a classic side dish that’s smooth, slightly sweet, and packed with tender corn kernels. It has a soft, almost pudding-like texture that melts in…
Tip: save now, cook later.Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving is a classic side dish that’s smooth, slightly sweet, and packed with tender corn kernels. It has a soft, almost pudding-like texture that melts in your mouth and adds the perfect comforting touch to your holiday spread. The creamy blend of corn, butter, and a little cheese creates a dish everyone at the table will want to go back for seconds of.
I love making this casserole because it feels like a little warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those recipes that’s so easy to prepare yet always impresses guests. I usually toss in just a bit of extra sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor and sometimes sprinkle some crunchy breadcrumbs on top before baking for a nice contrast in texture.
For Thanksgiving, I like to serve this casserole right alongside all the traditional dishes like turkey and stuffing. It’s great warm and fresh out of the oven but also holds up well if you need to make it ahead and reheat. Plus, leftovers (if there are any) make a fantastic snack the next day. This creamy corn casserole is truly a little holiday favorite in my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Kernel and Creamed Corn: Using both gives a great mix of texture and creaminess. If fresh corn is available, you can cook and cut fresh kernels but keep some cream or milk to mimic creamed corn’s smoothness.
Sour Cream: It adds tang and creaminess. Greek yogurt works well as a substitute if you want a lighter option or less tang.
Butter: Melted butter brings richness and keeps the casserole moist. You can try olive oil or a dairy-free margarine for a dairy-free version, but flavor will be a bit different.
Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: This mix creates the soft, cornbread base. If unavailable, try a simple homemade corn muffin mix or cornbread mix from the store.
Cheddar Cheese: Optional but adds a nice sharp flavor and creamy texture. Feel free to leave it out or swap for pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Balance of Creamy and Firm in This Casserole?
The key to this recipe’s texture is mixing and baking just right.
- Mix ingredients gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the texture tough.
- Use both whole kernel and creamed corn for texture variation—this keeps bites interesting.
- Preheat the oven fully so the casserole bakes evenly from the start.
- Bake until the edges turn golden and the center is mostly set; a toothpick inserted should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the casserole firm up and hold its shape.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 2-quart casserole dish – perfect size for even baking and serving right from the oven.
- Large mixing bowl – to easily combine all your ingredients without spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing ingredients gently without overworking the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the perfect texture.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot casserole dish when it comes out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs well with the sweet corn.
- Swap sharp cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a mild spicy kick that livens up the dish.
- Stir in diced green chilies or jalapeños to add some heat and depth.
- Mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra sweetness and texture variety.
Creamy Corn Casserole for Thanksgiving
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10–15 minutes prepping and mixing the ingredients. Baking takes around 45 to 55 minutes, and then it’s best to let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray so your corn casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Corn Base:
In a large bowl, stir together the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth and combined.
3. Add the Muffin Mix and Eggs:
Pour in the Jiffy corn muffin mix and stir it in well. Beat the eggs separately, then mix them into the batter along with salt and pepper until everything is evenly blended.
4. Cheese and Assembly:
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, gently fold it into the mixture now. Pour the batter into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes over the surface.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Your casserole is done when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick or knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it to set a bit so it holds together nicely on the plate. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish alongside your Thanksgiving feast!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Canned?
Yes! Just thaw and drain any excess moisture from the frozen corn before using it. This helps keep the casserole from becoming too watery.
Can I Make the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it a little longer (about 5-10 minutes extra) since it will be cold going in.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout.
What Can I Substitute for Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix?
If you don’t have Jiffy, you can use any cornbread mix or make a simple homemade cornbread batter. Just keep the texture similar to keep the casserole’s creamy consistency.