Corn Casserole is a classic American side dish that combines a creamy mixture of corn, cheese, and spices baked until golden and slightly crispy on top. It’s a popular dish at family gatherings and celebrations like Thanksgiving because it offers a sweet and savory flavor in a comforting, smooth texture.
This dish is versatile, simple to prepare, and perfect for sharing with a crowd. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences with some variations.
Basic Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen sweet corn
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a pot, combine the corn, heavy cream, and milk. Bring to a boil and simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter with the garlic and cook for one minute. Add the flour and stir until thickened into a paste.
- Pour this roux into the corn mixture and stir until creamy and thickened.
- Add sugar, herbs, pepper, and salt. Cook for a few more minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and crushed chili flakes.
- Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Why Make This for Thanksgiving?
Corn Casserole is a Thanksgiving favorite because it brings sweetness, creaminess, and warmth to the table. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, reducing stress on the big day and allowing you to spend more time with loved ones. Its comforting flavor and texture make it a hit with all generations.
What to Serve it With
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Cornbread or dinner rolls
- Fresh salads
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use good-quality frozen sweet corn for the best flavor.
- Feel free to swap Parmesan for cheddar cheese for a different twist.
- To make it healthier, use low-fat milk and less butter.
- For added heat, increase the chili flakes or add hot sauce.
Variations
- Cheesy: Add cream cheese or extra cheddar for extra creaminess.
- Vegetarian: Incorporate roasted peppers or mushrooms.
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or extra chili flakes.
- Vegan: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the butter.
Preparation Time Table
| Step | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Gathering ingredients | 10 minutes |
| Cooking the mixture | 10 minutes |
| Broiling in the oven | 5 minutes |
| Total | 25 minutes |
With this simple and delicious recipe, you’ll impress your guests at Thanksgiving and enjoy a classic dish with an easy, quick twist!
