Discovering a truly remarkable holiday side dish that captivates every palate is a culinary triumph. Down in the South, one such dish reigns supreme: the classic creamy Scalloped Corn Casserole. This isn’t just any side; it’s a luscious, buttery, and incredibly flavorful corn delight that holds a permanent, cherished spot on every festive table. Steeped in tradition, this casserole brings a sweet, savory comfort that instantly feels like home, no matter where you are.
Growing up in a rich Louisiana culinary tradition, I learned the art of Southern cooking from my family elders. After years of passionately sharing authentic regional recipes online, you can trust that what I’m bringing you today is the genuine article. This Scalloped Corn Casserole recipe is a testament to those heritage flavors – simple to prepare, yet yielding a dish that’s incredibly tender and custardy in the middle, beautifully golden and crisp on top, and tastes as if it’s been lovingly passed down through generations. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this timeless classic.
The Undeniable Charm of Casseroles: Comfort and Convenience
Casseroles, for me, are more than just a dish; they’re a culinary philosophy. There’s an undeniable charm in a good casserole – the ease with which you can combine a few readily available ingredients, pop it into the oven, and emerge with a complete, satisfying meal or side. This simple approach to cooking delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making casseroles perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and, of course, holiday gatherings. The beauty of a casserole lies in its versatility and ability to feed a crowd while still feeling like a homemade, comforting embrace.
My kitchen is often bustling with new casserole creations, and some have become incredibly popular staples among my readers. If you appreciate the convenience and deliciousness of a hearty, baked dish, you’ll love exploring my Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, a satisfying low-carb take on a classic. Another fan favorite is the Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, which brings all the savory flavors of a beloved sandwich to your dinner table. And for a perfect start to any day, my Low Carb Breakfast Casserole is always a hit. These recipes, like the Scalloped Corn Casserole, celebrate the joy of simple, flavorful cooking that brings everyone together.
Understanding Scalloped Corn: A Distinct Southern Delight
While many corn casseroles grace Southern tables, “scalloped corn” holds a special place. It’s important to distinguish it from other popular corn-based dishes. Some corn casseroles, for instance, incorporate cornbread or cornbread mix, resulting in a denser, often crumblier texture. These are delicious in their own right, offering a more bready experience. However, a true scalloped corn casserole, like the one we’re making today, is characterized by its utterly creamy, almost custardy texture. It focuses on the sweet, tender corn kernels suspended in a rich, buttery, and milky sauce, often thickened with eggs and a touch of flour or cornstarch, then crowned with a crisp topping.
This particular recipe emphasizes that smooth, luscious consistency, allowing the natural sweetness of the corn to shine through, beautifully complemented by the rich dairy and a delicate crunch on top. It’s a dish that embodies both elegance and down-home comfort, making it an indispensable part of any holiday spread or special family meal. It’s simply creamy and utterly delicious, a testament to classic Southern culinary tradition.
Table of Contents
Scalloped Corn Ingredients Unveiled: The Foundation of Flavor
Crafting the perfect scalloped corn casserole begins with understanding the role each ingredient plays. This recipe relies on a harmonious blend of simple components to create its signature creamy texture and sweet, comforting flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Corn: The star of the show! We’re looking for sweet, tender kernels. Frozen whole kernel corn is excellent for convenience and quality year-round. If using canned, ensure it’s well-drained. Fresh corn, when in season, will elevate this dish to another level of sweetness and crispness.
- Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour helps to slightly thicken the creamy base, ensuring the casserole holds together beautifully without being watery.
- Cornstarch: Working in tandem with the flour, cornstarch provides additional thickening power, contributing to that desirable smooth and custardy consistency.
- Sugar or Sweetener: To enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. Granulated sugar is traditional, but a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit can be used for dietary adjustments, as noted in the recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors. Even in a sweet dish, a pinch of salt can make the corn taste even sweeter. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth.
- Eggs: Crucial for structure and richness. Eggs bind the ingredients together, creating that delightful custardy texture as the casserole bakes. They act as a natural emulsifier, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to an incredibly rich and luxurious mouthfeel. Heavy cream adds unparalleled depth and creaminess, making each bite truly indulgent.
- Milk: Any milk will work here – whole milk for extra richness, or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk for a lighter touch, as I often use. It helps create the liquid base for the casserole, ensuring it’s moist and tender.
- Butter: Melted butter infuses the entire dish with a rich, savory, and comforting aroma. It contributes significantly to both flavor and texture.
- Breadcrumbs: The crowning glory! Breadcrumbs create that irresistible golden-brown, crispy topping that provides a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy interior. Panko breadcrumbs are excellent for extra crunch.
Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this scalloped corn casserole a true Southern masterpiece.
Mastering the Art of Scalloped Corn Casserole: A Simple Guide
Creating this beloved creamy scalloped corn casserole is remarkably straightforward, making it an ideal dish for cooks of all skill levels. The magic happens with minimal effort, resulting in a side that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. For precise measurements and a detailed step-by-step guide, be sure to refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down this post. However, here’s a simplified overview of the process:
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature from the moment your casserole enters the heat.
- Combine Dry Corn Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your corn kernels (thawed and drained if frozen), flour, cornstarch, and your chosen sweetener. Stir these together thoroughly, ensuring the corn is lightly coated. This step helps distribute the thickening agents and sweetness evenly. If you’re adding salt and pepper to the corn mixture, this is the time to season it.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, crack your eggs, then add the heavy cream, milk, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they are well combined and smooth. This creates the rich, liquid base that will envelop the corn.
- Integrate Mixtures: Pour the whisked wet ingredient mixture directly into the bowl with your corn and dry ingredients. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring all components are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the eggs.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Now, add about half of your breadcrumbs to the mixture in the pan and gently stir them in. This ensures some of that delightful crunch is woven throughout the casserole, not just on top. Smooth the surface evenly.
- Final Topping: Generously sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. This layer will become wonderfully golden and crisp during baking, providing a perfect textural contrast.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake as directed. You’re looking for a beautifully set casserole with a golden-brown, crispy top. The exact timing will ensure it’s cooked through with that signature custardy center.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This not only makes it easier to handle and serve but also allows the internal structure to set fully, resulting in cleaner, more defined portions.
Following these steps will lead you to a perfectly baked, incredibly delicious scalloped corn casserole that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. The detailed photos below offer a visual guide through the preparation, ensuring your success from start to finish!
Scalloped Corn Casserole Recipe: A Southern Delight
By Brandi Crawford
This Scalloped Corn Casserole is a foundational dish on any Southern holiday table. Rich, creamy, and loaded with that irresistible sweet corn flavor, it’s a taste of home. Passed down through generations, this recipe ensures a casserole that’s tender and custardy inside, with a perfect golden, crispy crust on top.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hr
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 204 kcal
Craving This? Save Your Recipe!
Get this recipe emailed directly to you, so you can easily come back to it later! You’ll also receive our exclusive free digital cookbook featuring 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes, along with weekly recipes and valuable cooking tips.
To save this recipe, consider subscribing to our newsletter!
Essential Equipment for Perfect Scalloped Corn
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Large Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
Detailed Ingredients List
- 30 oz frozen whole kernel corn (or 2 15oz cans, drained)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or preferred sweetener
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste, optional. See notes for guidance.)
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cups milk (Any milk works; I used almond milk.)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs recommended for extra crispiness.)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Scalloped Corn
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using frozen corn, ensure it is fully thawed at room temperature and thoroughly drained of any excess water. This prevents a watery casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, flour, cornstarch, and your chosen sugar or sweetener. Stir vigorously to ensure all the corn is evenly coated and the dry ingredients are well distributed. If you plan to season with salt and pepper, add them here.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the eggs, heavy cream, milk, and the melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until completely smooth and well combined. This is your rich, creamy base.
- Pour the milk and butter mixture over the corn mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing, especially after adding the eggs, to maintain a tender texture.
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half of the breadcrumbs directly into the pan and gently stir them into the mixture, then smooth the top with a spatula. This embeds some crunch throughout.
- Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs evenly over the entire surface of the casserole. This layer will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake uncovered for 40-50 minutes. The casserole is ready when the center is set and the top is golden brown and crisp. For an extra rich, deeply browned crust, I sometimes lightly spritz the top with cooking oil spray about halfway through baking.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to scoop.
Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Scalloped Corn
- Seasoning Balance: As a true Southern cook, I find that a dash of salt and pepper is essential in almost any corn dish, even those with a hint of sweetness. It truly enhances the overall flavor profile. However, if your preference is for a purely sweet corn dish, feel free to omit the salt and pepper. Adjust to your taste!
- Sweetness Level: For those who adore a truly sweet corn experience, don’t hesitate to add a bit more sugar or sweetener than the recipe calls for. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust accordingly.
- Topping Alternatives: While Panko breadcrumbs provide an excellent crispiness, this dish is traditionally made with crushed Ritz or saltine crackers. You can easily substitute the 1 cup of Panko for approximately one sleeve of either of these crushed crackers for a slightly different, equally delicious texture and flavor.
- Texture Control with Eggs: Eggs are vital for the casserole’s structure. If you prefer a moister, more tender, and slightly less firm casserole, you can reduce the egg count to two large eggs instead of three. Experiment to find your perfect consistency.
- Creamed Corn Option: For an even richer and naturally creamy base, you can opt to use canned creamed corn instead of whole kernel corn. If you choose this, you typically won’t need to drain it, but you might want to slightly reduce the amount of milk or heavy cream to maintain the desired consistency.
- Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided (macros) is calculated assuming the use of monk fruit sweetener. If you choose to use refined sugar or other sweeteners, the values will vary. Always use a trusted nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients for the most accurate information.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 204kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Scalloped Corn
Scalloped Corn is a quintessential Southern comfort food, a creamy corn casserole that consistently makes an appearance at holiday feasts and family gatherings. Imagine sweet, tender corn kernels baked in a rich, buttery, and slightly thickened mixture of eggs and milk, all crowned with a golden, crunchy topping of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. It’s beloved for its harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes, its incredibly soft and custardy interior, and that delightful textural contrast from the crispy crust. It’s truly simple, old-school Southern cooking at its finest, a dish that evokes the warmth and tradition of home-cooked meals, reminiscent of a cherished family recipe passed down through generations.
For this scalloped corn casserole, I personally love using whole kernel corn because of its distinct texture and burst of flavor. Frozen whole kernel corn is my go-to choice as it’s conveniently available all year long and offers great quality; just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water thoroughly before mixing. Many cooks also achieve excellent results with canned whole kernel corn – simply drain it very well. Some prefer canned cream-style corn, which naturally adds an extra layer of creaminess, often reducing the need for additional thickening. Ultimately, the best type of corn is what you prefer and have on hand, but always aim for high-quality, sweet corn.
This creamy Scalloped Corn Casserole typically requires 40 to 50 minutes of baking time in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. The exact duration can vary slightly depending on the specific characteristics of your oven and, more importantly, your personal preference for the crispiness of the topping. I lean towards a slightly crunchier crust, so I usually let mine bake for around 45 minutes, sometimes even closer to 50. You’ll know it’s perfectly done when the center is set (a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean, though it will still be very moist) and the top boasts a beautiful, golden-brown hue.
For this particular Scalloped Corn Casserole, you should bake it uncovered. The goal is to achieve a wonderfully browned and irresistibly crunchy crust, which develops best when exposed directly to the oven’s dry heat. Covering the dish would trap steam, which would prevent the breadcrumbs from crisping up and could lead to a soggy or soft topping. The golden, crispy top is one of the hallmarks of a great scalloped corn. If you notice the top browning too quickly before the internal custard has set, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes, but generally, it’s baked uncovered from start to finish.
Absolutely! Scalloped corn casserole is an excellent candidate for advance preparation, making it a fantastic choice for busy holiday schedules or whenever you need to save time on the day of serving. To make it ahead, assemble the entire casserole mixture as directed, but hold off on adding the second half of the breadcrumbs to the very top. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs on top just before baking. Pop it into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through, which might take a bit longer since it’s going in cold, usually around 50-60 minutes.
Scalloped corn casserole freezes wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy this comforting side dish long after it’s made. Once the casserole is completely baked and has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly first with plastic wrap, then with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, transfer the frozen casserole to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, remove the coverings and reheat it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and bubbly. If the topping has softened during freezing and thawing, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two (watch carefully!) to regain some crispness.
Delicious Scalloped Corn Variations to Explore and Customize
While the classic scalloped corn casserole is a masterpiece on its own, its simple base makes it incredibly adaptable to various additions and flavor enhancements. Don’t be afraid to experiment and customize this dish to suit your family’s tastes or to complement the main course you’re serving. Here are some fantastic variations you can incorporate:
- Cream Cheese: For an extra layer of tangy richness and an even silkier texture, add a few ounces of softened cream cheese to the corn mixture. It melts beautifully into the casserole, creating an irresistible depth of flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, incorporating shredded cheese is a must. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, a blend of Mexican cheeses, or even a smoky Gouda can add a savory, gooey dimension to the casserole. Stir it into the corn mixture or sprinkle it over the top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Cooked Sausage: For a heartier side dish that can almost stand alone as a light meal, mix in some cooked and crumbled ground sausage (pork, turkey, or even a spicy variety). It adds a savory, meaty element that’s especially delicious for breakfast or brunch spreads.
- Cooked and Crumbled Bacon: Everything’s better with bacon! Crispy bacon bits folded into the corn mixture or sprinkled on top deliver a smoky, salty crunch that perfectly complements the sweet corn.
- Evaporated Milk: A traditional Southern secret, substituting some or all of the heavy cream with evaporated milk can give the casserole a slightly different, often richer, texture and flavor profile. It’s a classic choice for deep, comforting flavors.
- Sour Cream: A dollop or two of sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option) stirred into the mix adds a pleasant tang and extra creaminess, cutting through the richness beautifully.
- Jalapenos: For those who appreciate a gentle kick, finely diced fresh or canned jalapenos can be stirred into the corn mixture. Remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, or leave some in for a spicier version.
- Diced Tomatoes: A small can of well-drained diced tomatoes (or fresh, finely chopped tomatoes) can add a burst of color, a hint of acidity, and freshness, brightening up the dish.
- Ranch Seasoning: For a uniquely savory and herbaceous twist, stir in a packet of dry ranch seasoning mix. It adds a delicious medley of flavors that pairs surprisingly well with corn.
- Cajun Seasoning: To truly embrace the Louisiana roots of this recipe’s inspiration, a good quality Cajun seasoning blend can introduce a vibrant, zesty, and subtly spicy kick, transforming the casserole into a bolder Southern statement.
Feel free to mix and match these variations, or simply try one at a time to discover your new favorite way to enjoy scalloped corn!
What to Serve with Your Perfect Scalloped Corn Casserole: Complementary Pairings
This creamy scalloped corn casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide array of main courses, making it an ideal choice for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or any festive gathering. Its sweet, savory, and comforting profile complements both rich meats and lighter fare. Here are some popular and highly recommended recipes that will create a complete and unforgettable meal when served alongside your perfect scalloped corn:
- Classic Homemade Southern Cornbread: The ultimate quintessential pairing. The tender, slightly crumbly texture of cornbread perfectly balances the creamy casserole, creating a truly authentic Southern experience.
- Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes: For a truly traditional holiday spread, combine the savory-sweet corn with the decadent richness of candied sweet potatoes. This duo offers a symphony of comforting, sweet flavors.
- Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas: A soulful and deeply traditional combination, especially for New Year’s or any day you crave a taste of Southern heritage. The earthy, savory peas provide a grounding contrast to the sweet corn.
- Grand Marnier Cranberry Sauce: A bright, citrusy, and slightly tart cranberry sauce offers a fantastic palate cleanser and a vibrant contrast to the rich creaminess of the corn casserole. Perfect for festive occasions.
- Seafood Mac and Cheese: Elevate your comfort food game with this indulgent pairing. The rich, cheesy seafood mac and cheese provides a luxurious complement to the sweet, buttery corn.
- Stuffed Turkey Legs: For a hearty and satisfying main course, serve your scalloped corn with tender, flavorful stuffed turkey legs. The robust flavors of the turkey are beautifully balanced by the delicate sweetness of the corn.
- Oven Baked Corn in Foil: If you’re a true corn enthusiast, doubling down on delicious corn might just be your ideal meal! The simple, steamed corn-on-the-cob offers a fresh counterpoint to the baked casserole.
To further immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Southern cuisine and discover more dishes that impeccably complement your scalloped corn, be sure to explore our comprehensive collections: Soul Food Thanksgiving Recipes and The Best Authentic Soul Food Recipes. These resources are brimming with authentic, flavorful recipes that promise to complete any meal with a touch of Southern hospitality and flavor.