Crafting the perfect corn casserole begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that coveted balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a slight cornbread-like texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to make this unforgettable side dish:

• All-purpose flour and yellow cornmeal: These two ingredients are the foundational elements of our homemade cornbread mix. The flour contributes to the casserole’s overall structure, while the yellow cornmeal imparts that signature grainy texture and classic corn flavor, essential for a true corn casserole experience.
• Creamed corn: This is a non-negotiable ingredient! Sweet creamed corn provides not only an incredible, rich corn flavor but also a significant amount of moisture and a delightfully smooth, creamy texture that defines this casserole. It’s key to achieving that “corn pudding” consistency.
• Whole kernel corn: For a delightful contrast in texture and a burst of natural sweetness, we add whole kernel corn. Remember to drain it thoroughly before adding to the batter to prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Both canned and fresh/frozen (see tips below) work wonderfully here.
• Sugar: I personally prefer my corn casserole with a touch of sweetness to enhance the natural sugars in the corn, giving it a comforting, dessert-like quality. However, if your palate leans towards a more savory profile, feel free to reduce or even completely omit the sugar without compromising the dish’s integrity.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent is critical for creating a light, airy, and fluffy texture, ensuring our casserole isn’t dense or heavy. It helps the homemade cornbread base rise beautifully.
• Sour cream: Beyond just adding moisture and creaminess, sour cream introduces a subtle yet vital tang to the casserole. This slightly acidic note perfectly balances the sweetness of the corn, adding complexity and richness that truly elevates the flavor profile.
• Eggs: Two large eggs serve as the primary binding agent, holding all the ingredients together and providing essential structure to the casserole. They also contribute a pleasant richness and help create that slightly custardy, pudding-like consistency.
• Butter: Melted butter is a must for its incomparable flavor and to keep the casserole wonderfully moist. I always recommend using unsalted butter to maintain precise control over the overall saltiness of the dish. If salted butter is all you have on hand, simply adjust by omitting any additional salt called for in the recipe. Make sure to melt the butter first and allow it to cool slightly before incorporating it into the wet ingredients to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

Preparing this incredibly flavorful corn casserole is much simpler than you might imagine. With just a few basic steps, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready for the oven in no time. You’ll need either a standard 13×9-inch baking pan or a charming 10-inch ovenproof skillet, both generously greased with butter to ensure a perfect, non-stick bake. Let’s walk through the easy process:

1. Prepare Your Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your chosen 13×9-inch baking pan or 10-inch ovenproof skillet and generously grease it with unsalted butter. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring a beautiful, golden crust.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, sugar (if using), baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until they are thoroughly combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasoning.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the slightly cooled melted butter, sour cream, large eggs, sweet creamed corn, and the thoroughly drained whole kernel corn. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spoon or spatula *just until combined*. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough, dense casserole rather than a light and fluffy one. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Bake Until Golden: Scrape the prepared batter evenly into your generously greased baking pan. Bake, uncovered, for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole is ready when its top is beautifully golden brown, the edges are slightly crisp, and the center appears set and firm.

Pro Tip for Doneness: The ultimate sign that your corn casserole is perfectly baked is a golden-brown top and slightly crisp edges. For an extra check, gently insert a toothpick into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your casserole is ready to be removed from the oven. If it still looks a bit wet or jiggly, return it to the oven for a few more minutes, checking frequently to prevent overbaking.

Once baked to perfection, allow the cornbread casserole to cool slightly before serving. It’s absolutely divine slathered with extra butter (whether regular or infused with a touch of honey!), and a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives along with plenty of cracked black pepper adds a wonderful aromatic and savory counterpoint.

While this homemade corn casserole recipe is delicious as is, these expert tips and creative variations will help you customize it to your liking and achieve even more incredible results:

• Elevate the flavor with savory additions! For a delightful kick, finely dice a fresh jalapeño (or two, if you like more heat!) and fold it into the batter before baking. If you prefer a smoky, savory note, add ½ to 1 cup of crumbled, crispy cooked bacon. These additions provide a wonderful depth of flavor and texture, transforming the casserole into an even richer side.
• Go delightfully cheesy. Who doesn’t love cheese? Stir in 1 ½ to 2 cups of your favorite shredded cheese directly into the batter for a creamy, gooey, and utterly irresistible upgrade. Classic sharp cheddar is always a crowd-pleaser, melting beautifully and adding robust flavor. For a more sophisticated touch, consider Gruyere or Swiss cheese, which offer nutty and slightly sweet undertones. Pro tip for the best melt: Always shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can hinder smooth melting and result in a less creamy finish.
• Smart prep ahead for convenience. To save precious time on busy days, you can prepare the batter up to 3 hours in advance. Simply mix all ingredients as directed, spoon the batter into your prepared baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remember to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since the batter will be cold. Note: Due to the extra baking powder in this recipe, it’s best not to prepare the batter much further ahead than 3 hours to maintain its optimal fluffiness and rise.
• Incorporate fresh or frozen corn. While canned whole-kernel corn works perfectly, feel free to substitute it with 2 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels for an even brighter, fresher flavor. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels from about 3 ears of corn, then sauté them in a tablespoon of butter for about 5 minutes until slightly tender before mixing them into the batter. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw or cook them beforehand. Crucially, always keep the canned creamed corn in the recipe—it is essential for achieving the casserole’s signature moisture and creamy texture!
• Add a vibrant pop of color and subtle sweetness. For an appealing visual contrast and a hint of extra flavor, finely dice about ½ cup of red or green bell peppers and fold them into the batter. These provide a lovely subtle sweetness and a slight crunch, making your casserole even more festive and enticing, especially during the holidays.

Storing and Enjoying Leftover Corn Casserole

Proper storage ensures you can savor the deliciousness of this corn casserole for days to come. Here’s how to handle any leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Any remaining corn casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: While you can freeze corn casserole in a freezer-safe container for 2 to 3 months, I wholeheartedly recommend enjoying it fresh. Freezing can sometimes alter the delicate texture, making it slightly grainier, and the overall taste might diminish. If you choose to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled before packing. To reheat, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until thoroughly warmed, possibly adding a foil cover to prevent drying out.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Corn Casserole

This crowd-pleasing, buttery corn casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a vast array of dishes, making it a star on any table. While it’s an absolute must for holiday spreads, it’s equally delightful for everyday meals. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire your next culinary creation:

For the Holidays: Naturally, this casserole shines alongside festive feasts. It’s the ideal companion for a perfectly roasted Thanksgiving turkey, a succulent herb-crusted prime rib, or a juicy holiday ham. Complete your celebratory spread with classic side dishes such as creamy, dreamy cream cheese mashed potatoes, savory homemade stuffing, and bright, tangy orange cranberry sauce. And for a truly unforgettable finale, don’t forget delightful easy pecan pie bars for dessert!

For Weeknight Dinners & Casual Gatherings: Don’t limit this deliciousness to just holidays! This corn casserole is equally at home with simpler, comforting weeknight staples. Serve it alongside tender oven-baked barbecue ribs, a classic baked or roasted chicken, or a hearty bowl of your favorite vegetarian chili or chipotle beef chili. It also makes a fantastic addition to potlucks and family barbecues, always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

If you loved this homemade corn casserole, be sure to explore more of our cherished recipes perfect for gatherings or comforting family meals:

• Creamy Green Bean Casserole: A comforting classic reinvented from scratch.
• The Best Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, savory, and incredibly smooth.
• Pumpkin Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet – perfect for any dinner.
• Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles: An elegant and flavorful appetizer or side.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Balsamic: A savory and slightly sweet side dish that will convert sprout skeptics.
• Roasted Garlic Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist.