Oh, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite side dishes: scalloped corn! This creamy and cheesy delight is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners alike. I remember my grandma making it every Thanksgiving, and it always disappeared faster than the turkey! The way the corn melds with the rich cream and melted cheese just makes my heart sing. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to whip it up for every occasion. It’s so simple to make, yet it feels like a special treat. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Scalloped Corn
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Scalloped Corn
Preheat and Mix Ingredients
Let’s get started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This part is super important because you want your scalloped corn to bake evenly and come out just right. While that’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your corn kernels, milk, cream, and melted butter. Just toss them all in and give it a good stir! You want everything to blend together beautifully, creating a creamy base that’ll be the star of the show.
Add Seasonings and Eggs
Next up, it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and black pepper, stirring until everything is nicely mixed. Now, in a separate bowl, beat your eggs until they’re frothy. This is where the magic happens! Once they’re ready, gently stir them into the corn mixture. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy; that’s perfectly normal! The eggs will help bind everything as it bakes, giving you that perfect, custardy texture.
Incorporate Cheese and Bake
Now for my favorite part—folding in that delicious shredded cheddar cheese! This is where the creamy, cheesy goodness really comes to life. Make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Once that’s done, pour everything into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake it for about 45 minutes, or until it’s set and beautifully golden on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and trust me, it’ll be so worth the wait when you pull that gorgeous dish out of the oven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes!
- Creamy texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect blend of cream and cheese.
- Cheesy flavor: The rich cheddar elevates the corn, making it irresistibly delicious.
- Vegetarian-friendly: This dish fits right into any vegetarian meal plan, making it a versatile side for all occasions.
- Comfort food classic: It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Once you serve this scalloped corn, I promise you’ll see smiles all around. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a special touch to any dinner, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight meal!
Tips for Success
To really make your scalloped corn shine, here are a few pro tips I swear by! First, if you can get your hands on fresh corn, do it! The flavor is just unbeatable, and it gives your dish that extra pop of sweetness. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture. Another little secret? Let your scalloped corn cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives it a chance to set up nicely, making it easier to scoop out those perfect portions. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully as it rests. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses! A sharp cheddar or even a mix of cheeses can take this dish to the next level. Trust me, you’ll want to keep these tips in your back pocket for every batch you whip up!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delicious scalloped corn. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they’ll give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 6g
This creamy, cheesy side not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits nicely into a balanced meal. Enjoy it as part of your next family gathering or cozy dinner at home!
FAQ About Scalloped Corn
Got questions about scalloped corn? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up while you’re whipping up this cheesy delight.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While I love the classic flavor of cheddar, you can experiment with other cheeses too. Try using Monterey Jack for a milder taste or even a blend of cheeses for an extra cheesy experience. The options are endless!
Can I make scalloped corn ahead of time?
You sure can! Just prepare the dish as directed, but instead of baking it right away, cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to customize your scalloped corn! Adding diced bell peppers, sautéed onions, or even chopped spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just be sure not to overload it, as you want the corn to remain the star of the show!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and you’ll be enjoying that creamy goodness all over again!
Can I freeze scalloped corn?
Yes, you can freeze scalloped corn! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should stay good for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. The flavors will still be fantastic!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your scalloped corn properly is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days—perfect for those next-day cravings!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just make sure to heat it in short intervals, stirring between to ensure it warms evenly. Either way, you’ll be ready to dig back into that cheesy, comforting delight in no time!
Print
Scalloped Corn: 7 Comforting Layers of Cheesy Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy side dish made with corn.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine corn, milk, cream, and melted butter.
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and stir into corn mixture.
- Fold in shredded cheese.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until set and golden.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen corn.
- Adjust cheese type to your preference.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: scalloped corn, corn casserole, cheesy corn dish
