Scalloped Corn Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Easy Side Dish

When it comes to comforting side dishes, few can compete with the rich, creamy, and cheesy delight of Scalloped Corn Recipe. This dish is a Southern classic that brings together sweet corn, a velvety dairy base, melted cheese, and a crispy, buttery topping, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, Scalloped Corn is a surefire hit.

One of the best things about this dish is its simplicity. Unlike many side dishes that require extensive preparation, Scalloped Corn is quick and easy to put together with just a few staple ingredients. The combination of milk, eggs, cheese, and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs creates a smooth, rich texture, while the corn adds a natural sweetness that balances everything out. The top layer, golden and crisp from baking, provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling underneath.

Another reason this dish is a favorite is its versatility. While it’s often served as a holiday side, it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted poultry, and even seafood. Plus, with a few variations, you can easily adjust it to your taste. Whether you like it extra cheesy, slightly spicy, or with an added crunch, this dish can be modified to fit your preferences.

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying side dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser, then Scalloped Corn is the recipe for you. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish, its health benefits, and how to make it from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Scalloped Corn is a dish that checks all the right boxes when it comes to comfort food. If you need more reasons to try it, here are some that will convince you:

1. Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal prep work and can be made with pantry staples. In under an hour, you’ll have a warm, cheesy side dish ready to serve.
2. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – The combination of sweet corn, savory cheese, and buttery cracker topping creates a flavor profile that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s a dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a summer BBQ, this dish is always a hit. It’s also great for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty and delicious.
4. Customizable – You can easily tweak this recipe to match your preferences. Want more cheese? Add it. Prefer a spicier version? Throw in jalapeños or hot sauce. Need a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
5. Pairs Well with Everything – Scalloped Corn goes well with a wide range of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak, pork chops, and seafood.
6. Leftovers Taste Just as Good – If you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully. Some people even say they taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor, Scalloped Corn is a must-try. Now, let’s take a look at the health benefits this dish has to offer.

Health Benefits

While Scalloped Corn is definitely a comfort food, it also has several nutritional benefits, thanks to its key ingredients.

1. Corn is Nutrient-Rich – The main ingredient, corn, is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains vitamin C, folate, and potassium, which support immune function and heart health.
2. Eggs Provide Protein and Nutrients – Eggs add a good source of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied. They also provide choline, which is essential for brain health.
3. Dairy Contributes Calcium – The milk and cheese in this dish provide calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Cheese also adds a dose of healthy fats and protein.
4. Customizable for a Healthier Version – If you want to make a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and milk, cut back on butter, and add whole-grain breadcrumbs for extra fiber.
5. Supports Digestive Health – Corn contains insoluble fiber, which aids in digestion and prevents constipation.

While this dish is rich and indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Plus, with a few tweaks, you can make it a little healthier without compromising on flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings:

• This recipe serves 6 people as a side dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~8g
• Fat: ~16g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sodium: ~350mg

Ingredients List

To make Scalloped Corn, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) corn (drained) or 2 cups frozen corn (thawed)
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy dish with the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the drained corn and shredded cheese, ensuring everything is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Pour the corn mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the corn mixture.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the mixture is set and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Serve

Scalloped Corn Recipe is best served warm straight from the oven when the cheesy, creamy texture is at its peak. It makes for an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering.

One of the best things about Scalloped Corn is that it works in any season. During the summer, it’s the perfect barbecue side dish, complementing grilled meats like steaks, ribs, or burgers. In the winter, its warm and creamy consistency makes it an ideal addition to hearty, roasted meals such as baked chicken, turkey, or ham.

This dish also works well as a standalone vegetarian option. While it’s traditionally a side, the combination of cheese, eggs, and milk gives it enough richness to be satisfying on its own. To make it a complete meal, you can serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

For holiday dinners, Scalloped Corn can take center stage alongside classics like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. If you’re making it for a large gathering, consider doubling the recipe and baking it in a larger casserole dish so there’s enough to go around.

For added texture and flavor, try garnishing your Scalloped Corn with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives. A sprinkle of extra cheese on top before serving can also enhance its cheesy goodness.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a weeknight meal, a holiday spread, or a summer cookout, Scalloped Corn is a versatile and flavorful addition to any table.

Pairing Suggestions

Scalloped Corn Recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it an incredibly versatile side. Because it has a rich, creamy texture with a hint of sweetness, it works well with savory and smoky flavors. Here are some of the best pairings:

Meat Pairings

1. Roasted Chicken or Turkey – The creamy texture of Scalloped Corn complements the juicy, savory flavor of roasted poultry.
2. Baked Ham – The slight sweetness of corn pairs wonderfully with salty, glazed ham, making this a perfect holiday pairing.
3. Grilled or Smoked Meats – Whether it’s brisket, pork chops, or ribs, the smokiness of grilled meats contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy corn.
4. Meatloaf – The comforting, hearty flavors of classic meatloaf match perfectly with Scalloped Corn.

Vegetarian Pairings

1. Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.
2. Salads – A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish.
3. Soup – A bowl of tomato soup or vegetable soup can be a great companion for a warm serving of Scalloped Corn.

Bread Pairings

1. Cornbread – For a Southern-style meal, pair Scalloped Corn with buttery cornbread or biscuits.
2. Garlic Bread – The bold, savory flavor of crispy garlic bread is a great contrast to the creaminess of the corn.

Beverage Pairings

1. White Wine – A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the cheesy, creamy elements of the dish.
2. Iced Tea – A refreshing sweet tea or lemon iced tea balances the richness.
3. Sparkling Water or Lemonade – If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, a citrus-based beverage pairs well.

Scalloped Corn is an adaptable dish that goes with almost anything, making it an essential side for any meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the great things about Scalloped Corn is that it stores well, meaning you can make it ahead of time or enjoy leftovers without losing flavor or texture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for 3-4 days. To prevent it from drying out, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container.

Can You Freeze Scalloped Corn?

Yes! Scalloped Corn Recipe freezes well. To freeze:

1. Let the dish cool completely.
2. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
3. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Scalloped Corn

1. Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
2. Microwave (Quick Method): Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying.
3. Stovetop (For Small Portions): Warm in a nonstick pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

For the best results, add a little milk or butter before reheating to restore moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Scalloped Corn Recipe is an easy dish to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

1. Overbaking the Dish – If baked too long, the dish can become dry and rubbery. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven when the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
2. Using Too Much Liquid – If you add too much milk or cream, the dish can turn out too runny. Stick to the recommended measurements.
3. Skipping the Topping – The buttery cracker topping adds crunch and flavor. Don’t skip it.
4. Not Seasoning Properly – Corn has a naturally sweet flavor, but it still needs a balance of salt, pepper, and seasonings to bring out its best taste.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Corn for the Best Flavor – While canned corn works, fresh or frozen corn gives the dish a natural sweetness and better texture.
2. Experiment with Different Cheeses – Try using Parmesan, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.
3. Add a Crunchy Element – Consider adding bacon bits or crushed potato chips on top for extra flavor.
4. Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for a kick.
5. Make It Ahead of Time – Assemble the dish a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Scalloped Corn Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When ready, bake it as directed.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers instead of regular ones.

Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned Corn?

Yes! If using fresh corn, cut it off the cob and measure 2 cups for the recipe.

What’s the Best Cheese for Scalloped Corn?

Cheddar is the most common, but Parmesan, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère also work well.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Scalloped Corn Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner, a weeknight meal, or a backyard BBQ, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich flavor, crispy topping, and easy preparation, it’s a dish that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Now that you have the full recipe, it’s time to try it out! Let us know how it turned out for you. If you made any fun variations, share them in the comments. Happy cooking!

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