Introduction to Scalloped Corn
What is scalloped corn and why it’s a go-to dish?
Scalloped corn is a delightful and comforting casserole that combines the sweet flavors of creamed corn and whole kernel corn, enriched with the crunch of crushed saltine crackers and the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese. This dish has become a beloved staple at family gatherings and potlucks because it strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and richness. It’s not just an easy recipe to whip up; it’s also an incredibly satisfying side that complements any meal, from roast chicken to barbecued ribs.
Imagine digging into a warm, bubbly dish where each spoonful offers a blend of textures, from creamy to crunchy. Plus, scalloped corn is versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or even mix-ins like chopped turkey bacon or chicken ham to elevate the flavors further.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy dinner, scalloped corn is sure to impress. If you're searching for a dish that delivers comfort and practicality, look no further. With a few accessible ingredients and straightforward prep, you’ll find yourself making this scrumptious casserole over and over again. For more on how to elevate your culinary experience, check out this guide to comforting casseroles.
Ingredients for Scalloped Corn
Essential ingredients for a delicious scalloped corn
Creating the perfect scalloped corn is all about having the right ingredients on hand. This creamy, comforting dish combines the sweetness of corn with a delightful crispy topping, making it a beloved side or even a main dish. Here’s what you need:
- 30 ounces Canned Cream-style corn: This is the base, providing that rich creaminess we love.
- 15 ounces Canned Whole Kernel Corn: The whole kernels add texture and sweet bursts of flavor.
- 1.5 cups Crushed saltine crackers, divided: These are crucial for that crispy topping. If you're feeling adventurous, you can swap them with something like panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- 8 ounces Shredded cheddar cheese: Can't go wrong with cheese! It adds a savory richness, but feel free to try other cheese varieties too.
- ½ cup Butter, melted, divided: The butter brings everything together and enhances flavors beautifully.
- 3 large Eggs: These help bind the mixture, ensuring it holds its shape.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper: Just enough to give it a kick.
- ½ teaspoon Paprika: This adds color and a hint of smokiness.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a dish that’ll impress friends and family alike! What’s your favorite ingredient to add to scalloped corn?
Preparing Scalloped Corn
If you're looking for a comforting side dish to elevate your meal, scalloped corn is a delightful choice. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the sweetness of corn with creamy textures, topped with a buttery crunch that'll have everyone asking for seconds. Let's get started!
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 30 ounces of canned cream-style corn
- 15 ounces of canned whole kernel corn
- 1.5 cups of crushed saltine crackers (divided)
- 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup of melted butter (divided)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Tip: Make sure to preheat your oven to 350 degrees F while you prepare the ingredients, and grease an 11×7 inch casserole dish for later.
Combine the Creamed Corn and Whole Kernel Corn
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn and whole kernel corn. Drain the whole kernel corn beforehand to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture. The blend of these two types of corn not only enhances the dish's flavor but also adds visual appeal with the contrast of textures.
Mix in the Seasonings and Egg
Next, you’ll want to incorporate the rest of the ingredients. Add ¾ cup of the crushed saltine crackers, shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of the melted butter, seasoned eggs, salt, onion powder, and black pepper into the corn mixture. Mix everything until well-combined. This combination will give your scalloped corn a rich flavor and delightful creaminess. According to the American Corn Growers Association, corn is an excellent source of vitamins such as Vitamin C and essential nutrients.
Prepare the Buttery Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter, ¾ cup of crushed saltine crackers, and paprika. This topping adds a crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Who doesn’t love a delicious crunch?
Bake to Perfection
Pour the corn mixture into your greased casserole dish and top it with the buttery cracker mixture. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the dish lightly jiggles in the center. Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before serving; this gives it time to set and makes serving easier.
Now, you're all set to enjoy your homemade scalloped corn. With its sweet, savory taste and texture, it's bound to become a favorite!
Variations on Scalloped Corn
Cheesy Scalloped Corn with Different Cheeses
While our classic recipe features cheddar, don’t hesitate to experiment with scalloped corn by using a blend of different cheeses! Try incorporating sharp gouda for a nutty flavor or creamy mozzarella for added stretch. Even a sprinkle of feta can introduce a delightful tang. Mixing cheeses not only enhances taste but also adds an appealing texture to your dish.
Adding Veggies for an Extra Nutritional Boost
Boost nutrition by adding veggies to your scalloped corn! Consider folding in sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or even finely chopped broccoli. Not only will you add vibrant color, but these additions will also elevate the health benefits of your dish. If you want some inspiration, check out this vegetable cooking guide for ways to enhance flavors while keeping it nutritious!
Cooking tips and notes for Scalloped Corn
Tips for achieving the best texture
For perfectly scalloped corn, focus on blending your ingredients just right. Mix until combined but avoid over-stirring, as this might make the dish dense. It’s important to let the casserole rest for about 15 minutes after baking; this allows it to set beautifully, ensuring every slice holds its shape without falling apart. If you're craving a crispy topping, consider broiling for the last few minutes of cooking—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
How to store leftovers for future meals
To store any leftover scalloped corn, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or try single servings in the microwave for a quick snack. If you want to store it for an extended period, consider freezing it in portions for up to three months. Just be sure to label your container with the date!
Serving suggestions for Scalloped Corn
Perfect pairings for scalloped corn
Scalloped corn is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains. For a comforting dinner, serve it alongside roast chicken or grilled turkey bacon for a heartwarming meal. Its creamy texture complements the juiciness of beef brisket wonderfully. Not in the mood for meat? Try adding a vibrant mixed green salad or a side of sautéed vegetables for a light, veggie-friendly offering.
Unique serving ideas to impress guests
Elevate your scalloped corn by presenting it in individual ramekins for a sophisticated touch that will wow your guests. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness. Or, why not create a scalloped corn bar? Set out toppings like crispy chicken ham, crunchy fried onions, or even a dollop of sour cream, allowing guests to customize each bite.
For more inspiration on unique side dishes, check out this guide on creative dinner pairings.
Time breakdown for Scalloped Corn
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your scalloped corn takes around 10-15 minutes. This includes measuring your ingredients and greasing your casserole dish—simple but essential steps to set you up for success!
Cooking time
Once you’ve got everything mixed and in the oven, it’ll bake for 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you'll want that perfect golden-brown topping!
Total time
In total, you're looking at about 50-60 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
This recipe is not just a side dish; it can also be a delightful main course paired with a fresh salad or your favorite protein. If you're interested in enhancing your culinary skills, check out resources like the Food Network for more tips!
Nutritional Facts for Scalloped Corn
Calories
When you indulge in a serving of scalloped corn, you’re looking at approximately 333 calories. It's a comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, but being mindful of portion sizes is essential if you're watching your calorie intake.
Protein
This creamy delight packs about 11 grams of protein per serving. The combination of eggs and cheddar cheese ensures that you’re not just enjoying a savory treat, but also fueling your body with a decent amount of muscle-building protein.
Sodium
One thing to keep in mind is the sodium content, which stands at around 749 mg per serving. If you're sensitive to salt, you might want to consider reducing the amount of added salt or looking for low-sodium variations of your ingredients. It’s always great to keep your health goals in check while savoring this delicious dish!
In summary, scalloped corn is a delightful dish that balances comfort with nutrition, making it a popular choice for many. For more detailed nutrition insights, consider checking sources like Healthline or USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive data on ingredients. Enjoy!
FAQs about Scalloped Corn
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Using frozen corn in your scalloped corn dish can add great flavor and texture. Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen corn before mixing it in to avoid excess moisture. If you love that sweet corn flavor, frozen varieties can actually deliver a fresher taste.
How can I make scalloped corn healthier?
Want to lighten up your scalloped corn? Here are some tips:
- Reduce the butter: Try using less melted butter or substitute it with a healthier oil, like olive oil.
- Cheese alternatives: Opt for a lower-fat cheese, or try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the calories.
- Add veggies: Incorporate chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Taking these steps can make your dish delicious and nutritious!
Is scalloped corn suitable for making ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! Preparing your scalloped corn in advance can be a real time-saver. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you can just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Reheating is easy, and your guests will love the home-cooked goodness!
Conclusion on Scalloped Corn
Final thoughts on making scalloped corn a staple in your home
Scalloped corn is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting, versatile recipe that brings warmth to any meal. With its cheesy flavor and crunchy topping, this dish can complement countless main courses. Consider adding scalloped corn to your meal rotation and you may discover a new family favorite!
Scalloped Corn Delight with Turkey Bacon for Cozy Gatherings
Equipment
- Oven
- casserole dish
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Canned Corn
- 30 ounces Canned Cream-style corn
- 15 ounces Canned Whole Kernel Corn
Crackers and Cheese
- 1.5 cups Crushed saltine crackers divided
- 8 ounces Shredded cheddar cheese
Butter and Eggs
- 0.5 cup Butter melted, divided
- 3 large Eggs
Spices
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Onion powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 11×7 inch casserole dish.
- Drain the whole corn kernels.
- In a large bowl combine the creamed corn, whole corn kernels, ¾ cup Saltine crackers, shredded cheese, ¼ cup melted butter, eggs, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir together until well-combined.
- In a small bowl combine remaining ¼ cup melted butter, remaining ¾ cup Saltine crackers, and paprika. Toss together.
- Pour the corn mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top with the buttery saltine crumbs.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the topping begins to brown and casserole is set. It should lightly jiggle in the center.
- Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
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