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Cozy Cheesy Corn Casserole with Buttery Cracker Topping

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This cozy cheesy corn casserole with buttery cracker topping is a comforting, easy-to-make side dish that turns simple pantry staples into a golden, creamy, and crunchy crowd-pleaser. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or holiday tables, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.75 ounces) cream style corn
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided: 1/4 cup for base, 1/4 cup for topping)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (room temperature)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (reduce to pinch if using salted butter)
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed butter crackers (about 30 crackers, e.g., Ritz)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Drain the whole kernel corn in a colander for 1-2 minutes to remove excess liquid.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn and cream style corn. Stir gently.
  4. Add sour cream, 1/4 cup melted butter, and beaten eggs. Stir until well combined (do not overmix).
  5. Fold in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Tap the dish gently on the counter to settle.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes until the edges bubble and the center is slightly jiggly.
  8. While baking, prepare the topping: In a medium bowl, combine crushed crackers, remaining 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder (if using). Stir until mixture resembles wet sand.
  9. After 30 minutes, remove casserole from oven and sprinkle topping evenly over the surface.
  10. Return to oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbling around the edges. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly.
  11. Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese (not pre-shredded) for smoother melting. Let casserole rest before serving to avoid a runny texture. To make topping crunchier, toast crushed crackers for 3-4 minutes before mixing with butter. Casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead (without topping) and refrigerated; add topping before baking and increase baking time by 10-15 minutes. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, cheesy corn, cracker topping, comfort food, side dish, Thanksgiving, potluck, easy casserole

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/cozy-cheesy-corn-casserole-with-buttery-cracker-topping/