If you are looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with homestyle flavors, this Scalloped Corn Recipe is going to become your new favorite side. Combining the sweet, tender kernels of corn with a creamy base and a crispy, buttery cracker topping, it’s a warm, inviting casserole that brings a touch of southern charm to any meal. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you crave a simple yet satisfying dish, this scalloped corn is more than just a side—it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a gentle hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each adding something special to the final dish. From the creamy texture of canned creamed corn to the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the crunch of Ritz crackers, every element plays its part in creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 30 oz. canned creamed corn: Provides the rich, creamy foundation that makes this casserole so luscious.
- 15 oz. canned corn kernels (drained): Adds a nice pop of texture and sweetness alongside the creamed corn.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers: Mixed into the casserole to lend subtle crispness and flavor within the dish.
- 2 large eggs: Act as a binder, helping everything come together beautifully and hold its shape.
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, melty contrast to the sweet corn and creamy base.
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper: Enhances flavor with just a hint of spice without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (for topping): Creates a golden, buttery crust that adds irresistible crunch on top.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Mixed with crackers for the topping to achieve that perfect toasted flavor and crisp texture.
How to Make Scalloped Corn Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking. Grease a 9×7-inch baking dish well so the casserole won’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the creamed corn, drained corn kernels, crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, cheddar cheese, and black pepper. This mixture should be creamy but with enough texture from the crackers and corn kernels to make it interesting in every bite.
Step 3: Pour Into Baking Dish
Transfer the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks consistently and creates a uniform base for that crunchy topping.
Step 4: Make the Cracker Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the remaining crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, stirring until every crumb is coated. This buttery topping is the secret to that perfect golden crust.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the corn casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is beautifully golden and the casserole bubbles enticingly around the edges.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about five minutes. This rest time allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy all those wonderful layers of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Scalloped Corn Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already delightful dish, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. Their bright green color adds a fresh contrast, and their subtle herbal notes complement the corn’s sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This scalloped corn casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, or ham. It also holds its own alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, rounding out your meal with a comforting and hearty component.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the scalloped corn in individual ramekins, topped with the buttery cracker crust. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also helps portions stay warm and crispy right up until they reach the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making for easy lunches or dinner reheats.
Freezing
The Scalloped Corn Recipe freezes beautifully. After baking and completely cooling, freeze in a covered, freezer-safe dish for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy topping. Microwave reheating is quicker but might soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels can add a wonderful brightness to your scalloped corn, but you may want to cook them lightly before mixing them in to maintain the right texture and moisture balance.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan butter or margarine for the topping. The casserole will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.
Can I make the Scalloped Corn Recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the cracker topping right before baking to ensure it crisps up nicely.
What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
Saltines are a great substitute and will provide that buttery crunch the recipe calls for. You could also try crushed buttery bread crumbs for a slightly different texture.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish or two standard ones. Keep an eye on the baking time since it may take a bit longer to heat through depending on the depth.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a cozy, classic side to your meal rotation, this Scalloped Corn Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors that bring people together. Once you try it, I promise it will become a go-to dish for gatherings big and small—so why not give it a go and let this golden casserole work its magic?
Print
Scalloped Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Scalloped Corn recipe combines creamy creamed corn, tender corn kernels, and a cheesy Ritz cracker topping baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings, delivering a delightful balance of creamy texture and crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 oz. canned creamed corn (2 – 15 oz. cans)
- 15 oz. canned corn kernels, drained (1 can)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Topping
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (saltines also work)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (½ stick)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×7-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
- Mix Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the creamed corn, drained corn kernels, ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a uniform mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared corn mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to prepare for baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Stir well until the crackers are evenly coated with butter.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the top of the corn casserole to create a crunchy, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole bubbles around the edges, indicating it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let it set and make serving easier.
Notes
- You can substitute saltine crackers for Ritz crackers if preferred.
- Make sure to drain the canned corn kernels well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- For a richer flavor, try adding ¼ cup of diced green bell pepper or jalapeños to the mixture.
