Why You’ll Love this Grandma-Style Corn Casserole
When I think of classic comfort food that brings everyone to the table, this Grandma-Style Corn Casserole immediately comes to mind. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a moist, pudding-like center and golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
You’ll love how ridiculously easy it is—just five ingredients and one bowl. No fussing, no complicated techniques. Can you believe something this delicious takes less than five minutes to prep?
Perfect for holidays, Sunday suppers, or potlucks, this casserole pairs beautifully with everything from fried chicken to holiday ham.
Trust me, your family will beg for seconds.
What Ingredients are in Grandma-Style Corn Casserole?
This corn casserole couldn’t be simpler to throw together, which is honestly part of its charm.
The magic happens when these five humble ingredients combine to create something so much greater than the sum of their parts. The cornbread mix provides structure while the two types of corn create that perfect sweet-savory balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- 1 (8 ounce) box Jiffy cornbread mix
- 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can creamed corn (not drained)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
What makes this recipe so special is how forgiving it can be.
Don’t have name-brand Jiffy? Any cornbread mix of similar size will work just fine. The sour cream adds a wonderful tangy richness, but in a pinch, you could substitute Greek yogurt.
And while I wouldn’t mess with perfection too much, some folks like to add a touch of sugar for extra sweetness or a handful of shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
The beauty is in the simplicity—just five ingredients that transform into the coziest side dish you’ve ever tasted.
How to Make this Grandma-Style Corn Casserole
Making this corn casserole couldn’t be simpler, which is exactly why it’s remained a family favorite for generations. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees, giving it plenty of time to warm up while you mix your ingredients together.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box (8 ounces) of Jiffy cornbread mix, 1 can (15 ounces) of drained whole kernel corn, and 1 can (15 ounces) of creamed corn—which, importantly, you don’t drain. The creamed corn provides moisture and a silky texture that binds everything together. Next, add 1 cup of sour cream and 1/2 cup of melted butter, giving the mixture a good stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. For the most efficient and consistent results, a stand mixer can elevate your baking experience.
The next part is where many recipes go wrong—proper baking. Take a moment to prepare your baking dish by either greasing it generously or giving it a quick spray with cooking spray. An 8×8 casserole dish works perfectly for this recipe, creating the ideal thickness for that wonderful contrast between the slightly crisp top and the tender, moist interior.
Pour your corn mixture into the prepared dish, spread it evenly with a spatula, and pop it into your preheated oven. For the smoothest mixing experience, consider using a premium stand mixer that will perfectly blend the ingredients without overworking the batter. The casserole needs to bake uncovered for 55-60 minutes, which might seem long, but trust me—this is what develops that gorgeous golden-brown top and guarantees the center is completely cooked through.
You’ll know it’s ready when the edges pull away slightly from the dish and the center is set but still has that signature pudding-like quality that makes corn casserole so irresistible.
Grandma-Style Corn Casserole Substitutions and Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basic recipe, let’s explore some delicious twists on this classic dish.
I’m all about making recipes your own! Try adding a cup of shredded cheddar or pepper jack for a cheesy upgrade.
Want more texture? Mix in diced jalapeños, bell peppers, or crispy bacon bits.
For a more savory profile, fold in some sautéed onions and garlic powder.
Can’t do dairy? Coconut cream works surprisingly well in place of sour cream.
Vegetarians might appreciate adding black beans and diced red peppers for a Southwest spin.
The beauty of this humble casserole? It’s virtually impossible to mess up.
What to Serve with Grandma-Style Corn Casserole
When planning your menu around grandma-style corn casserole, you’ll want companions that complement its sweet, creamy texture. I find that protein-forward mains like roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or holiday ham create the perfect balance.
The casserole’s cornbread richness practically begs for tangy counterpoints—think vinegary collard greens or a crisp garden salad with acidic dressing.
For holiday spreads, this humble side fits right between the turkey and cranberry sauce. Can you imagine a summer barbecue without it alongside pulled pork? Me neither.
Final Thoughts
This humble corn casserole recipe has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and comfort that makes it a standout side dish for any occasion.
I’m always amazed how just five ingredients transform into something so satisfying. The magic happens when Jiffy mix meets those two distinct corn textures, creating that signature sweet-savory balance we all crave.
You can certainly dress it up with cheese or herbs, but honestly, why complicate perfection? Much like creamy guacamole, which relies on just a handful of fresh ingredients for its distinctive flavor, this casserole demonstrates the beauty of culinary restraint. Sometimes the most memorable dishes are the ones that don’t try too hard. Much like French toast recipe, the beauty lies in transforming basic ingredients into something extraordinary with minimal effort. Wouldn’t you agree that there’s something wonderfully nostalgic about keeping traditions deliciously simple?
