A Culinary Hug from the South

Welcome to the warmth of Southern cooking. Imagine family gatherings, potlucks, and the delicious scent of food in the kitchen. Southern Creamed Corn Casserole is a classic dish that brings comfort and tradition to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

This casserole is truly special. It is incredibly creamy and delicious, with a wonderful sweet corn flavor. Everyone, young and old, loves it. You can find all the ingredients easily in any grocery store. The preparation is simple, but the taste is gourmet. It is the perfect comfort food side dish for any meal, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners. It always brings warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients for Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

Gather these items to make your casserole:

Pantry Staples
2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15-ounce) can cream-style corn
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Dairy & Other Fresh Items
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a blend (for topping and/or mixing in)

Directions for Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

Follow these steps to make your casserole:

Prepare First: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
Mix Corn and Dairy: In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, milk, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well.
Make the Roux: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a light golden roux.
Thicken Sauce: Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook and whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine and Bake: Pour the thickened butter and flour mixture into the corn mixture and stir well to combine.
Transfer to Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown.

How to Serve Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

This casserole pairs well with many meals.

Classic Southern Comfort Options:
Serve it with roasted chicken, slow-cooked meats, or fried fish.
It is perfect for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.

Everyday Deliciousness Options:
Enjoy it with grilled steaks or burgers.
It goes great with your favorite BBQ dishes.
It is a comforting side for a simple weeknight roast.

How to Store Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Tips to Make Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

Use these tips for the best results:

Creamines is Key: Use whole milk and full-fat sour cream for the creamiest texture.
Taste and Adjust: Adjust salt, pepper, and sugar to your liking.
Watch Your Oven: Baking times vary. Look for bubbling edges and a golden-brown top.
Let it Rest: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set slightly.

Variations to Try

Try these ideas to change your casserole:

Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
More Cheese: Use different cheese blends for the topping or mix them into the casserole.
Crispy Topping: Sprinkle crushed butter crackers or cornbread crumbs on top for extra texture.
Savory Addition: Stir in cooked, crumbled turkey for a smoky, savory flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh chives or parsley for a brighter taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Creamed Corn Casserole

Can I make Southern Creamed Corn Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator. If baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What kind of corn is best for this Southern Creamed Corn Casserole recipe?

We suggest using both canned whole kernel corn and canned cream-style corn. This mix gives the best texture and flavor for this classic recipe.

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned for Southern Creamed Corn Casserole?

Absolutely! If you use fresh corn, you will need about 4-5 cups of kernels. For frozen corn, thaw it and drain it well. You might need to add a little more milk if the mixture seems too dry, as fresh or frozen corn has less liquid than canned options.