Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This corn casserole brings together the natural sweetness of corn with the creamy goodness of sour cream, the richness of cheese, and the perfect hint of honey. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s versatile and can be enjoyed as a side dish or even as a comforting main course. The combination of cornmeal, creamed corn, and fresh corn kernels creates a hearty, satisfying texture, while the honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavors. It’s a wonderful side dish that pairs well with meats, grilled vegetables, or other hearty meals.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh corn kernels (or 1 can of corn, drained)
1 cup creamed corn
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 large eggs, beaten
Chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, honey, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Stir everything together until well combined.
Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the mixture is fully combined.
Add Fresh Corn: Stir in the fresh corn kernels (or canned corn if using). Mix everything together evenly.
Bake the Casserole: Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole has set in the middle.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this dish, you can try other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor.
Spicy Version: For a spicy twist, you can add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole mixture.
Corn Types: You can use frozen corn in place of fresh corn, or substitute creamed corn with a homemade version for more control over the consistency and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes of cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It will add a similar creaminess with a bit more tang.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh is unavailable. Just make sure to drain the canned corn before adding it to the casserole.

How can I make this dish sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you can increase the amount of honey in the recipe by a tablespoon or two. You could also add a touch of brown sugar for added depth of sweetness.

Can I use other grains instead of cornmeal?

While cornmeal provides the signature texture in this dish, you could experiment with other grains like polenta or even breadcrumbs for a slightly different texture.

What can I serve this casserole with?

This casserole is versatile and pairs well with many main dishes like roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even as a standalone dish for a lighter meal.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by substituting the regular cornmeal with gluten-free cornmeal.

Is this casserole spicy?

This casserole is not inherently spicy, but you can add spice by incorporating jalapeños or chili powder if you prefer a little heat.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! You can add diced bell peppers, green chilies, or even some sautéed onions or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Sweet Harmony Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole is a delightful and unique dish that combines the best of both savory and sweet flavors. The creamy texture, coupled with the natural sweetness of honey and the savory cheese, makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion. It’s easy to make, versatile, and so delicious that it will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at your next gathering, this casserole is sure to impress!