When summer finally rolls around and the smell of barbecue fills the air, I can’t help but think of the ultimate side dish that brings everyone together: Classic Dutch Oven Corn Casserole. This creamy, comforting delight strikes that perfect balance between sweet and savory, and it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Just the thought of warm, bubbly corn mingling with a cheesy crust makes my mouth water!
What I love most about this casserole is its versatility; you can use either creamed corn for a luscious texture or whole kernel corn for a delightful pop with every bite. And if you’re short on time, frozen corn makes a fantastic substitute—life is too short to settle for boring sides! Whether you’re serving it up at a family BBQ or a potluck with friends, this dish ensures you’ll be the star of the table. Grab your Dutch oven, and let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is this corn casserole a crowd-pleaser?
Comforting and Rich: This corn casserole is a warm embrace on a plate, combining sweet and savory flavors that everyone loves.
Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples like Jiffy cornbread mix and cheese makes it easy to whip up without fuss.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer creamed corn, whole kernels, or even frozen corn, this recipe adapts to your needs beautifully.
Perfect for Any Gathering: It shines as a BBQ side or potluck favorite, ensuring everyone leaves with full bellies and smiles.
Easily Made Ahead: Prepare it the day before, and simply reheat to serve, making entertaining a breeze.
This creamy corn casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed way to impress your guests!
Ingredients for Corn Casserole
For the Casserole
- Jiffy Cornbread Mix – Serves as the tasty base; can be replaced with a homemade cornbread mix if desired.
- Creamed Corn – Adds moisture and sweetness; use all creamed corn for an extra creamy casserole delight.
- Whole Kernel Corn – Offers texture and bursts of flavor; ensure it’s drained well to avoid a watery result.
- Large Eggs – Binds everything together; letting them reach room temperature helps them mix better.
- Shredded Taco Blend Cheese – Brings creaminess and savory depth; reserve half for a deliciously cheesy topping.
- Butter (melted or chopped) – Infuses richness and moisture into the casserole; melting it ensures even distribution.
For Topping
- Reserved Taco Blend Cheese – Adds an irresistible cheesy crust; sprinkle it on in the last 15 minutes of cooking for a perfect finish.
Feel free to indulge in this corn casserole for your next gathering—it truly adds warmth and joy to any meal!
How to Make Corn Casserole
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Preheat your fire pit with 23 self-lighting briquettes, allowing them to heat for about 20 minutes until they’re glowing and ready for cooking.
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Grease the Dutch oven and its lid with vegetable oil to prevent the delicious casserole from sticking. Don’t skimp—it’s key for easy serving!
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Mix in a large bowl the Jiffy cornbread mix, creamed corn, well-drained whole kernel corn, eggs, and shredded taco blend cheese. Stir until smooth, letting the magic blend together!
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Pour the mixture into the prepared Dutch oven, making sure to cover it with the lid to trap in all that lovely moisture while it cooks.
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Set the Dutch oven over the coals, placing 16 briquettes on the lid and 7 beneath it. This will create an even cooking temperature for that perfect bake!
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Cook for 1 hour, lovingly rotating both the Dutch oven and its lid every 15 minutes. This ensures every nook and cranny receives that glorious warmth.
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Uncover in the last 15 minutes to sprinkle the reserved taco blend cheese on top. Replace the lid to finish cooking and achieve that bubbly, cheesy crust.
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Let it rest for several minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Your patience will be rewarded with a casserole that’s both creamy and cheesy!
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Classic Dutch Oven Corn Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire casserole mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just mix the Jiffy cornbread mix, creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, eggs, and taco blend cheese, then store it covered in the fridge. To maintain its creamy texture and flavor, avoid adding the cheese topping until just before cooking. On the day of serving, simply pour the mixture into your greased Dutch oven, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, and follow the cooking instructions as directed. You’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing corn casserole that’s ready with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Corn Casserole
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Fridge: Store your leftover corn casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen, making it even more delightful the next day!
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions of the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. This ensures the corn casserole maintains its creamy goodness without freezer burn.
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Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through, to keep that deliciously creamy texture intact.
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Serving Tip: If it appears dry after freezing, add a splash of milk while reheating to restore moisture and creaminess!
What to Serve with Classic Dutch Oven Corn Casserole?
Imagine gathering around the table, the aroma of your corn casserole mingling with the enticing scents of grilled meats and fresh sides.
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: The sweetness of the corn pairs wonderfully with rich, smoky pulled pork, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender grilled chicken enhances the comforting flavors of the casserole, making every bite a satisfying harmony.
- Smoky BBQ Ribs: The tang of BBQ sauce with tender ribs complements the creamy corn casserole, delivering a perfect balance of flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crisp, refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that lightens the richness of the casserole, making it an ideal sidekick.
- Green Beans Almondine: Delicate green beans sautéed with almonds add a touch of elegance and earthy flavor, perfect for elevating your meal.
- Cornbread: You can never have too much corn! Enjoy warm cornbread on the side for those who can’t resist an extra helping of this wholesome ingredient.
- Fruit Salad: A bright, seasonal fruit salad adds freshness and acidity to balance the creamy casserole and enrich the dining experience.
- Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade will quench your thirst and add a refreshing twist that enhances all the flavors on your plate.
- Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their rich, chocolatey notes contrast beautifully with the savory corn casserole.
With these delightful pairings, your corn casserole will shine as the star of a memorable gathering!
Expert Tips for Corn Casserole
- Mind the Jiggly Center: Pull the casserole from the fire when the center jiggles slightly; it will continue to set while resting.
- Drain Well: Always ensure whole kernel corn is well-drained to prevent a soggy corn casserole that disappoints.
- Gentle Mixing: Mix your ingredients gently to maintain a light and fluffy texture; over-mixing can lead to a denser casserole.
- Temperature Matters: Use room temperature eggs for smoother incorporation into the batter, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Customize Your Cheese: Don’t hesitate to swap in different cheese blends like cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavors—experimenting is half the fun!
Variations & Substitutions for Corn Casserole
Feel free to play around with this recipe to create your perfect corn casserole experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the shredded cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives for a creamy, plant-based treat.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to bring the heat and awaken those taste buds!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or chives for an aromatic twist that brightens up the dish beautifully.
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Different Corn Choices: Experiment with a combination of fresh, frozen, and canned corn for varied textures and flavors that keep you guessing.
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Sweet Family Twist: Stir in some diced bell peppers or sautéed onions for a touch of sweetness and extra crunch.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs before baking for a delightful crunch that adds texture.
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and choose plant-based cheese for a comforting vegan casserole.
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Bacon Bliss: For an indulgent finish, crumble cooked bacon on top in the last few minutes of baking, giving your casserole a savory surprise.
Let your creativity flow and make this corn casserole uniquely yours!
Classic Dutch Oven Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best corn for my corn casserole?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, using a combination of creamed corn and well-drained whole kernel corn works wonderfully. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, you may opt for all creamed corn. Remember, you can also use frozen corn in a pinch—just thaw and drain it before mixing!
What’s the best way to store leftover corn casserole?
Very! Store your leftover corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If you’ve got more than you can eat, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I freeze corn casserole, and how do I do it?
You can absolutely freeze this delicious corn casserole! First, let it cool completely after baking. Then, cut it into portions or freeze the whole casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container to keep out air. To thaw, just move it to the fridge overnight, and it’s ready to reheat!
What if my corn casserole comes out too watery?
Oh no! This can happen if the whole kernel corn isn’t drained well. If your casserole appears watery, gently mix in a little extra cornbread mix before baking, or be sure to drain the corn thoroughly next time to keep that delightful creaminess without excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Jiffy cornbread mix with a certified gluten-free cornbread mix or even make your own at home. Just ensure all other ingredients (like cheese and creamed corn) are gluten-free if you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions.
Is this corn casserole safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing this corn casserole with pets. Ingredients like butter, cheese, and spices may not sit well with them and could cause digestive issues. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends!
Creamy Corn Casserole: A Must-Try BBQ Side Dish Delight
Equipment
- - Dutch oven
- Fire pit
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 box Jiffy Cornbread Mix Can be replaced with a homemade cornbread mix if desired.
- 15 oz Creamed Corn Use all creamed corn for an extra creamy casserole.
- 15 oz Whole Kernel Corn Ensure it’s drained well to avoid a watery result.
- 2 large Large Eggs Let them reach room temperature for better mixing.
- 2 cups Shredded Taco Blend Cheese Reserve half for topping.
- 0.5 cup Butter Melted or chopped for richness.
For Topping
- 1 cup Reserved Taco Blend Cheese Add on in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your fire pit with 23 self-lighting briquettes for about 20 minutes until glowing.
- Grease the Dutch oven and its lid with vegetable oil.
- Mix in a large bowl the Jiffy cornbread mix, creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, eggs, and shredded taco blend cheese until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared Dutch oven and cover it with the lid.
- Set the Dutch oven over the coals with 16 briquettes on the lid and 7 beneath.
- Cook for 1 hour, rotating both the Dutch oven and its lid every 15 minutes.
- Uncover in the last 15 minutes to sprinkle the reserved taco blend cheese on top.
- Let it rest for several minutes before serving.