Few side dishes bring the same warmth and nostalgia as scalloped corn. Creamy, buttery, and baked to golden perfection, this classic comfort food is a staple at holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, and potlucks alike.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect complement to a Thanksgiving turkey, a Christmas ham, or a weeknight roast, this scalloped corn casserole is guaranteed to steal the show.
With sweet corn, a rich creamy base, and a crispy golden topping, this dish offers the best of both worlds—smooth and crunchy, sweet and savory. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients!
Ingredients
This scalloped corn recipe is made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen!
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned & drained)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sour cream (for a slight tang and extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (balances the flavors, optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Thickening & Texture
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz, for a slight crunch inside)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps thicken the mixture)
Topping
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers (for a crispy, golden topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, sour cream, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add the Corn & Thicken
Stir in the corn, crushed crackers, and flour until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. This will help the dish hold together beautifully once baked.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared 8×8-inch pan, spreading it evenly.
5. Add the Buttery Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create that golden, crispy topping everyone loves!
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the casserole is set in the center.
7. Let It Rest & Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving—this helps it firm up slightly and makes scooping easier. Then, dig in and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Scalloped Corn
- Use Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Corn – If using frozen corn, thaw and drain it first. If using canned corn, drain well to avoid excess moisture.
- Want Extra Creaminess? – Swap out the milk for half-and-half or add an extra tablespoon of sour cream.
- For More Cheesy Goodness – Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
- Make It Ahead! – Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just add the topping and bake before serving.
- Double It for a Crowd – Easily double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish for larger gatherings!
What to Serve with Scalloped Corn
This rich and comforting side dish pairs beautifully with:
Roast Beef or Steak – The creamy texture balances hearty meats.
Baked Chicken or Turkey – A Thanksgiving must-have!
Ham or Pork Chops – A holiday favorite with smoky meats.
Green Beans or Roasted Veggies – Adds a fresh contrast.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
- To Store: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second bursts.
- To Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
There’s a reason scalloped corn has stood the test of time—it’s the perfect balance of creamy, crispy, sweet, and savory. Whether it’s served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake up a little nostalgia—one delicious, buttery bite at a time!
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