Easy Corn Casserole (Perfect for Thanksgiving)

Warm, creamy, and buttery, this Corn Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish your holiday table needs. Every spoonful is fluffy yet rich, with that golden top everyone fights over. It’s quick to mix, easy to bake, and always a crowd favorite—perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy family dinner.

Why you’ll love this corn casserole

There’s something about Corn Casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s rich, creamy, and full of sweet corn flavor that pairs perfectly with savory holiday mains.

You’ll love that it only takes about 10 minutes to prepare with no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed. This recipe delivers that classic golden crust with a moist, pudding-like center.

The secret? A mix of corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter that creates the most comforting texture imaginable. Plus, it’s versatile—you can bake it fresh, make it ahead, or even freeze leftovers for later.

Whether you’re cooking for a big Thanksgiving crowd or a quiet weekend meal, this Corn Casserole fits right in. It also complements dishes like turkey, ham, or roasted chicken beautifully. Once you serve it, don’t be surprised if it disappears before you even get seconds!

What is corn casserole?

Corn Casserole is a classic Southern side dish that blends the sweetness of corn with the savory texture of cornbread. It’s heartier than creamed corn but softer than traditional cornbread, making it the perfect middle ground.
While it’s often mistaken for corn pudding, the difference lies in texture. Corn pudding is more custard-like, while Corn Casserole is fluffy and slightly bready. It’s buttery, rich, and has a golden-brown top that adds just the right amount of crispness.
This dish has become a Thanksgiving staple because it balances sweet and savory so well. It’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone back for seconds—especially when it’s made with Jiffy corn muffin mix.

Ingredients you’ll need

You only need a few simple ingredients for this easy Corn Casserole recipe:
Corn Muffin Mix (8.5 oz, Jiffy) – the key to that light, fluffy texture.
Sour Cream (1 cup) – adds creaminess; use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Creamed Corn (1 can) – keeps it moist and rich.
Melted Butter (½ cup) – gives a smooth, buttery taste.
Corn Kernels (1 can, drained) – adds texture and bite.
Eggs (2 large) – bind everything together for a tender bake.
Every ingredient plays a role in making this casserole irresistible, and it’s easy to tweak if you prefer dairy-free or gluten-free swaps.

How to make corn casserole (step-by-step guide)

Step 1 – Preheat the oven and prepare ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay out all your ingredients—it makes mixing smoother and faster.

Step 2 – Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Then stir in melted butter and sour cream until creamy. This step is important for creating a rich, cohesive batter that bakes evenly.

Step 3 – Combine with corn and muffin mix

Add both the drained corn kernels and the creamed corn. Stir gently until combined. Next, fold in the corn muffin mix, stirring until smooth. Don’t overmix, or you’ll lose that soft texture.

Step 4 – Pour and bake

Pour the batter into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. The smell will be incredible, and the top should turn golden brown.

Step 5 – Check for doneness and serve

Insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out mostly clean, it’s ready. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving warm. The texture should be creamy inside with a lightly crisp top—pure comfort food perfection.

Expert tips for the best corn casserole

For a soft, custardy center, always bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing. Cold eggs can cause uneven baking. Also, avoid overmixing once the muffin mix goes in—just fold until combined.
If using a larger dish, reduce baking time slightly, as thinner layers cook faster. Conversely, thicker casseroles may need up to 50 minutes. Letting it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving helps it set properly.
You can even double the recipe for a big holiday crowd—just use a 9×13-inch dish and extend the bake time by about 10 minutes. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole for a true holiday feast.

Substitutions and variations

For a lighter version, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can swap butter for melted coconut oil or vegetable oil, though the flavor will change slightly. For gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free corn muffin mix.
Want to make it extra savory? Add shredded cheddar cheese or diced jalapeños. Prefer something sweeter? Stir in a tablespoon of honey or a sprinkle of sugar.
Vegetarian eaters will love this naturally meat-free dish, while those who enjoy smoky flavor can add bits of cooked bacon. Whatever version you choose, this casserole stays moist, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing every time.

How to know when it’s done

You’ll know your Corn Casserole is ready when the top turns golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the dish. Insert a knife—if it comes out mostly clean, it’s perfect. If it still looks a bit wet in the middle, simply bake it for 5 more minutes. Remember, the casserole will continue to set as it cools, so don’t overbake it.

What to serve with corn casserole

This creamy side goes with almost anything. It pairs beautifully with turkey and ham at Thanksgiving, but it’s also amazing next to BBQ pulled pork or roasted chicken.
For casual dinners, serve it with Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole or a fresh salad. It even works as a potluck favorite—easy to carry, easy to love.
Its buttery sweetness balances savory dishes like baked beans or coleslaw. Honestly, it’s one of those sides that everyone reaches for twice.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore that just-baked texture.
You can also freeze Corn Casserole for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
For busy holidays, assemble the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before baking. This simple make-ahead trick saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Recipe time, servings & difficulty

Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: 55–65 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Easy
This recipe is simple, forgiving, and great for beginners or busy cooks.

FAQs about corn casserole

Related recipes to try

• Homemade Green Bean Casserole
• Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
• Easy Tater Tot Casserole
• Chicken Casserole for Christmas Dinner

Conclusion

This Corn Casserole is comfort in a dish—creamy, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s a terrific Thanksgiving side that pairs with nearly everything and wins over every guest. Whether you make it ahead or fresh from the oven, it’s guaranteed to become part of your family’s holiday tradition. You can even share your version or save it to your favorite board on Pinterest

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