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Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe: Easy Bacon & Cheese Thanksgiving Side

creamy corn casserole - featured image

This creamy corn casserole combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese in a rich, comforting side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering. Quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s a nostalgic favorite with a savory twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained (or 3 cups fresh or frozen corn)
  • 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
  • 1 cup sour cream (or light sour cream or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or margarine)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 (8.5 oz) box corn muffin mix (e.g., Jiffy)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp preferred)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (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. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 6-8 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and the wet mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
  5. Sprinkle in corn muffin mix, salt, and pepper. Gently fold until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Fold in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon (reserve about 1/4 cup for topping). Stir until evenly distributed.
  7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle reserved bacon, remaining cheese, and green onions (if using) over the surface.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until edges are golden and center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.
  9. If top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil at the 25-minute mark.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a gluten-free corn muffin mix. For vegetarian, omit bacon or use plant-based bacon bits. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture. Reserve some cheese for topping for a golden crust. Casserole can be made ahead and baked before serving. Flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers extra delicious.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, creamy corn casserole, bacon corn casserole, Thanksgiving side, cheese corn casserole, easy casserole, comfort food, holiday side dish