Corn Casserole Top Star has become my go-to side dish for just about everything! Seriously, whether it’s a holiday feast, a casual potluck, or just a Tuesday night dinner, this dish is always a winner. It’s incredibly versatile, offering a wonderfully creamy, custardy texture that people rave about, and you can even add a delightful crunchy topping if you like. Finding the best corn casserole topping can elevate it even further, making it the star of any meal. With this easy corn casserole topping recipe, you’ll impress everyone. Let’s dive into creating the perfect Corn Casserole Top Star!
Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole Top Star
This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Here’s why everyone adores this Corn Casserole Top Star:
- It boasts an incredibly moist and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- The universally loved flavor is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a hit with all ages.
- Preparation is a breeze, making it a truly quick and easy corn casserole topping solution for busy cooks.
- It’s the perfect side dish for holidays and potlucks, always disappearing fast!
- You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins, from cheese to bacon.
- Enjoy that comforting, delicious homemade taste that store-bought versions just can’t match.
- The rich, creamy corn casserole topping is simply irresistible.
- It’s a fantastic way to elevate any meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients for the Perfect Corn Casserole Top Star
Gathering the right corn casserole topping ingredients is key to this dish’s success. This recipe offers flexibility, whether you’re aiming for a classic corn casserole crust recipe or a richer base.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted – This adds essential richness and helps bind everything together.
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain full-fat Greek yogurt) – For that signature creamy texture and a slight tanginess.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature – These act as the binder, creating a custardy base.
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn – This provides a smooth, sweet corn flavor and moisture.
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained – For little bursts of sweet corn texture throughout.
- 1 cup milk – Helps achieve the perfect pouring consistency.
- 1 ½ cups cornmeal OR 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix – Your choice dictates the base texture; cornmeal for rustic, Jiffy for cake-like.
- 1 tsp baking powder (omit if using Jiffy mix) – Helps give the casserole a slight lift when using cornmeal.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle savory note.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) – For a cheesy, savory kick.
- Optional Add-Ins: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon; 1 can diced green chiles + 1 tsp cumin + swap cheddar for pepper jack; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (chives, parsley, thyme); ¼ cup crushed butter crackers or fried onions for a crunchy topping.
How to Make Corn Casserole Top Star
Making this delicious casserole is surprisingly simple! Follow these steps for a perfect, creamy corn casserole topping every time. This recipe makes how to make corn casserole topping an absolute breeze.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good greasing so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, let’s get those wet ingredients combined. Whisk together the melted butter, sour cream, room temperature eggs, and milk until everything is nice and smooth. This forms the base of our creamy corn casserole topping.
- Step 3: Now, it’s time for the corn! Gently fold in the creamed corn and the drained whole kernel corn into the wet mixture.
- Step 4: Next, add your chosen dry base. This will be either the cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper, OR the Jiffy corn muffin mix. Mix everything together until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are totally okay and even desirable for texture.
- Step 5: If you’re adding shredded cheddar cheese or any other yummy mix-ins like bacon or chiles, now’s the time! Gently stir them in until they’re evenly distributed.
- Step 6: Pour the corn casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula so you have a nice, even layer for baking.
- Step 7: Bake for 45–55 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be a beautiful golden brown and the center to be nicely set. If the top starts browning too quickly, don’t worry! Just tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Step 8: Once it’s baked to perfection, let this amazing Corn Casserole Top Star rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This short rest allows the custard to firm up, making it easier to serve and ensuring that perfect texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Corn Casserole Top Star
Elevate your Corn Casserole Top Star with these insider tips for guaranteed success. These tricks ensure you achieve that perfect balance of creamy and delicious.
- Cornmeal vs. Jiffy: For a rustic, slightly polenta-like texture, use cornmeal with baking powder. For a sweeter, more cake-like result, opt for Jiffy mix. Both create a fantastic base for your corn casserole crust recipe.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature. They emulsify better with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother, more cohesive custard.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated. Overmixing can develop the gluten, resulting in a tougher casserole instead of a tender one.
- Checking for Doneness: The edges should be set and slightly puffed, and the center should be mostly firm with maybe a slight wobble. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
- For a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle about ¼ cup crushed butter crackers or fried onions mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for an irresistible crunch.
What’s the secret to a perfect Corn Casserole Top Star?
The magic lies in the balance! Using both creamed corn and whole kernel corn gives you wonderful texture. The custard base, made with sour cream and eggs, is crucial for that signature creamy, melt-in-your-mouth quality. This combination truly creates the best homemade corn casserole topping experience.
Can I make Corn Casserole Top Star ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time. You can also bake it, let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for reheating.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Corn Casserole Top Star?
To avoid a dry casserole, ensure you have the correct liquid ratios. If it’s not setting properly, double-check that your eggs were at room temperature and that it baked for the full time. If the topping burns, simply tent it loosely with foil.
Best Ways to Serve Corn Casserole Top Star
This versatile Corn Casserole Top Star is a dream side dish that pairs beautifully with so many meals. It’s fantastic alongside roasted meats like turkey or ham, making it a perfect addition to your holiday spread. For a more casual vibe, it’s also wonderful with BBQ favorites like pulled pork or ribs. The creamy, slightly sweet flavor complements savory dishes wonderfully.
When planning your menu, think about classic pairings. It’s especially delicious served with fried chicken or alongside a hearty green bean casserole. If you’re looking for specific corn casserole topping ideas for holidays, consider a sprinkle of fresh chives or a dollop of sour cream to enhance its rich flavor. It truly shines as a comforting and satisfying side!
Variations of Corn Casserole Top Star You Can Try
One of the best things about this Corn Casserole Top Star is how easily you can customize it! These corn casserole topping variations allow you to tailor it to your taste. For a cheesy delight, stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese into the batter. If you love a little heat and savory crunch, consider adding ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or a can of diced green chiles with a pinch of cumin. For a fresher flavor, a sprinkle of 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like chives or parsley right before baking adds a lovely brightness.
And if you’re craving that delightful texture contrast, you absolutely must try creating a corn casserole with crunchy topping. Simply mix about ¼ cup of crushed butter crackers or fried onions with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. It’s a game-changer!
Corn Casserole Top Star: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn for my Corn Casserole Top Star?
Yes, you absolutely can! If you use frozen corn, just make sure to thaw it completely and drain it very well before adding it to the batter. This helps prevent your casserole from becoming too watery and ensures a lovely, custardy texture for your corn casserole delicious topping.
Can I make Corn Casserole Top Star without Jiffy mix?
Definitely! If you don’t have Jiffy mix or prefer a less sweet, more rustic flavor, simply use 1 ½ cups of cornmeal combined with 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. This is a fantastic way to achieve a great corn casserole crust recipe from scratch.
What’s a good topping alternative for Corn Casserole Top Star?
There are several wonderful options if you’re looking for a corn casserole topping alternative beyond the standard. A popular choice is to mix about ¼ cup of crushed butter crackers or fried onions with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Alternatively, a generous sprinkle of 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese mixed into the batter also creates a wonderfully cheesy and delicious outcome.
Nutrition Facts for Corn Casserole Top Star
Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving for this Corn Casserole Top Star, calculated for 1/10th of the casserole:
- Calories: Approx. 280
- Fat: Approx. 16g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 28g
- Protein: Approx. 6g
Please note that the amounts of sugar and sodium can vary quite a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any optional add-ins. Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and add-ins.
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Corn Casserole Top Star: Delicious 1-Hour Bake
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This corn casserole is a golden, custardy, and slightly sweet side dish perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. It combines a rich Southern-style custard with a light, cornbread-like texture, and can be customized with cheese, bacon, or herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain full-fat Greek yogurt)
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups cornmeal OR 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 tsp baking powder (omit if using Jiffy mix)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
- Optional Add-Ins: ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon; 1 can diced green chiles + 1 tsp cumin + swap cheddar for pepper jack; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (chives, parsley, thyme); ¼ cup crushed butter crackers or fried onions for a crunchy topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sour cream, eggs, and milk until smooth.
- Fold in creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, your chosen dry base (cornmeal + baking powder + salt/pepper OR Jiffy mix).
- If using, add shredded cheddar cheese or other desired mix-ins. Mix gently until just combined; some lumps are okay.
- Pour the corn casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let the corn casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to firm up.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble the corn casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, bake, cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat covered with foil in a 300°F oven for 20-30 minutes.
- Freezing: Corn casserole can be frozen, but the texture may become slightly watery upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
- Cornmeal vs. Jiffy Mix: Cornmeal yields a more savory, rustic, polenta-like texture. Jiffy mix results in a sweeter, lighter, cake-like casserole.
- For a crunchy topping: Mix ¼ cup crushed butter crackers or fried onions with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10th of casserole
- Calories: Approx. 280
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: Approx. 16g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 28g
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: Approx. 6g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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