Growing up, my mom’s 5-ingredient Corn Casserole was always the star of the show at our family’s holiday gatherings. I can still remember the aroma of that warm, creamy casserole wafting through the house, drawing everyone to the table with eager anticipation. It was the dish that instantly evoked feelings of comfort, nostalgia, and pure deliciousness.
There was just something about that perfect balance of sweet corn, savory cheese, and buttery crackers that made it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Mom would make it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and any other special occasion, and I always looked forward to sinking my fork into that golden, bubbly goodness. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through our family for generations, and to this day, it remains one of my all-time favorite comfort foods.
Why This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect 5-ingredient Corn Casserole
What makes this 5-ingredient Corn Casserole recipe so special is its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a dish that’s truly extraordinary. The secret lies in the perfect blend of flavors and textures – the sweetness of the corn, the creaminess of the cheese, and the crunch of the cracker topping all come together in a harmonious symphony that will have your taste buds singing.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Corn: The star of the show, of course! You’ll need two 15-ounce cans of whole kernel corn, drained.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is the way to go, bringing a rich, savory flavor to the casserole.
- Sour Cream: This adds a lovely tanginess and creaminess to the dish.
- Crackers: Buttery, crispy crackers, crushed, provide the perfect topping.
- Butter: A little bit of melted butter helps bind the cracker topping and adds an extra layer of richness.
Step-by-Step 5-ingredient Corn Casserole Instructions
Preparing Your 5-ingredient Corn Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole comes together in just a few simple steps and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned corn, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir until well incorporated.
2- Transfer the corn mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
3- In a separate bowl, crush the crackers into small pieces. Melt the butter and mix it into the crushed crackers until they’re evenly coated.
4- Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping over the corn mixture, covering it completely.
5- Bake the 5-ingredient Corn Casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
6- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
For an extra creamy texture, consider using a combination of cheddar and cream cheese. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Crush the crackers into a fine, breadcrumb-like consistency for the best texture.
Avoid over-baking, as the casserole can become dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as the top is golden brown.
Serving and Storing Your 5-ingredient Corn Casserole
Perfect Pairings for 5-ingredient Corn Casserole
This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or baked chicken for a classic holiday meal. It also makes a fantastic side dish for weeknight dinners, complementing grilled or baked proteins perfectly. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover 5-ingredient Corn Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings in short bursts.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. On the day of, just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for 5-ingredient Corn Casserole
Creative 5-ingredient Corn Casserole Variations
While the classic 5-ingredient Corn Casserole is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding diced jalapeños or green chiles for a spicy kick, or stir in some cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist. You could also switch up the cheese, using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for extra flavor.
Making 5-ingredient Corn Casserole Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, you can swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat or low-sodium crackers. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cereal. And for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese and non-dairy sour cream alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen corn before using it in the recipe.
Q: How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Q: Can I use a different type of cracker?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of crackers, such as saltines, Ritz, or even crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs.
Q: How many people does this 5-ingredient Corn Casserole serve?
A: This recipe makes a 9×13 inch casserole, which should serve 8-10 people as a side dish.
Q: What should I do if the top gets too brown before the center is done?
A: If the top is browning too quickly, simply cover the casserole with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent further browning while the center finishes baking.
5-Ingredient Corn Casserole
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6
Description
This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a golden, bubbly topping, it’s the perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
– 15 oz can corn, drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the drained corn, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, and salt until well combined.
3. 3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. 4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. 5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. You can also add some diced jalapeños or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This 5-ingredient Corn Casserole is an absolute classic that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its unbeatable combination of sweet corn, creamy cheese, and buttery cracker topping, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds all around. So what are you waiting for? Give this 5-ingredient wonder a try, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, delicious masterpiece!
