Cracker Barrel corn casserole is a dish that adds warmth and comfort to any meal. It’s made with sweet corn and rich cheddar cheese. This makes it a great side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holidays.
It has a creamy texture and a flavor that’s sure to please. This corn casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home.
This recipe serves 6 people and has 503kcal per serving. It includes whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, melted butter, cornbread mix, and cheddar cheese. These ingredients come together to make a tasty and easy dish.
Baking it for 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C) makes it golden-brown on top and creamy inside. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. This makes it perfect for meal prep or saving for later.
This corn casserole is also very versatile. You can add bacon, try different cheeses, or add your favorite spices and herbs. This lets you make the dish your own, matching your taste preferences.
Table of Contents
What is Corn Casserole?
Corn casserole is a favorite Southern dish. It mixes creamy corn with the warmth of a casserole. It’s made with whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, butter, and cornbread mix.
Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe
More and more people love corn casserole. Cracker Barrel’s menu addition helped make it famous. It’s a hit at holidays like Easter and Christmas.
Making this casserole is easy. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare. Then, it cooks for 55 minutes to be ready.
| Servings | Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 10 minutes | 55 minutes | 1 hour 5 minutes |
Popular Variations
There are many ways to make corn casserole even better. Some ideas include:
- Adding crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist
- Incorporating various cheese blends for a richer, creamier casserole
- Mixing in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Topping the casserole with a crunchy layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
- Enhancing the flavor with fresh herbs like chives or parsley
Whether you like the traditional southern corn pudding or a new twist on cornbread casserole, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole
To make the perfect Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole, you need the right ingredients. This dish is a mix of corn, dairy, and spices. It’s a comforting side dish that everyone loves. Let’s look at what you’ll need for this classic recipe.
Key Ingredients List
The base of this corn casserole recipe includes:
- Whole kernel corn (drained)
- Cream-style corn
- Sour cream
- Unsalted butter
- Cornbread mix
- Shredded cheddar cheese
These ingredients make the casserole rich and creamy. The whole kernel corn adds texture. The cream-style corn and sour cream make it smooth. The cornbread mix holds it together, and the cheddar cheese adds a tangy finish.
Optional Add-ins
You can also add these ingredients to make the dish even better:
- Cooked and crumbled bacon
- Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives
- A pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
These add-ins let you customize the flavor to your liking. They can also give the dish a unique twist.
Substitutes for Common Ingredients
If you’re missing some ingredients or want to try something different, here are some substitutes:
- Fresh or frozen corn can be used instead of canned whole kernel corn
- Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option
- Salted butter can be used if you adjust the added salt accordingly
- Jiffy cornbread mix is a popular choice, but any cornbread mix will work
- Shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese can be used for a different flavor profile
Remember, substituting ingredients can change the dish’s texture or taste. But they can be useful if you’re short on something or want to make the recipe your own.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making a cracker barrel copycat recipe for corn casserole is easy. Just a few steps and you’ll have a delicious dish ready for any occasion.
Prepping the Corn Casserole Ingredients
First, gather all the Corn Casserole Ingredients you need. You’ll require:
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can cream-style corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 1 package Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Mixing the Casserole
In a big bowl, mix the drained corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir well. Then, add the Jiffy corn muffin mix and mix until it’s all combined. Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Baking the Corn Casserole
Pour the mix into the greased dish and spread it out. Bake for 45-50 minutes. The top should be golden, and the center set. To check, insert a toothpick into the center. If it’s clean, your dish is ready!
| Preparation Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prepping | 10 minutes |
| Mixing Casserole | 5 minutes |
| Baking Casserole | 45-50 minutes |
| Total Time | 60-65 minutes |
Tips for Perfecting Your Corn Casserole
To make your easy casserole recipe perfect every time, remember a few key tips. Get the cooking time and temperature right. Also, test for doneness and avoid common mistakes. These strategies will help you master this beloved comfort food dish.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Bake your corn casserole at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes. This temperature helps the ingredients blend well and gets the top layer golden-brown and crispy. Watch your casserole closely towards the end to avoid over-browning.
Testing for Doneness
To see if your corn casserole is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If wet batter sticks to the toothpick, bake a bit longer and test again.
Preventing Common Mistakes
One common mistake is overmixing the ingredients. To keep your casserole tender and fluffy, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can make the casserole dense and heavy, losing its light and creamy texture.
| Cooking Time | Oven Temperature | Doneness Test |
|---|---|---|
| 45-50 minutes | 350°F | Insert toothpick; should come out clean |
By following these simple tips, you’ll create a delicious, crowd-pleasing corn casserole. It will showcase the best of this classic easy casserole recipe.
Serving Suggestions for Corn Casserole
Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole is a versatile holiday side dish. It goes well with many main courses and sides. Its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor make it a hit at any gathering.
Ideal Pairings
This comforting casserole pairs well with several dishes. It makes for a satisfying meal. Here are some great pairings:
- Barbecue meats, such as pulled pork or ribs
- Marinated and grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables, like green beans or carrots
- Fresh salads with light dressings
- Baked beans for a hearty, southern-inspired feast
- Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole
Creative Serving Ideas
Elevate your presentation with these creative ideas:
- Bake the corn casserole in individual ramekins or small dishes for a personalized touch.
- Serve the casserole in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, eye-catching display.
- Top each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.
- Pair the casserole with a themed cocktail or mocktail to create a cohesive dining experience.
When planning your menu, think about flavors and textures. This corn casserole recipe makes 8 servings. It’s great for both small gatherings and big celebrations.
| Serving Size | Calories per Serving | Total Fat per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| 1 portion | 328 | 31g |
Tip: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and reheat it just before serving to save time on the day of your event.
Storing and Reheating Corn Casserole
Enjoying a Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole leaves you with tasty leftovers. It’s important to store and reheat them right to keep the flavor and texture. With a few easy steps, you can enjoy this comforting dish for days.
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover corn casserole, follow these guidelines:
- Let the casserole cool down to room temperature.
- Put the leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, removing air before sealing.
Best Reheating Methods
When reheating your corn casserole, choose one of these methods:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Put the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until warm.
- Microwave: Put a single serving in a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stir halfway.
“Reheating corn casserole is a breeze, and it tastes just as good as the day you made it!”
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole for days. It brings comfort and deliciousness to your meals.
Nutritional Information
Enjoying Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole means knowing its nutritional facts. One serving has about 371 calories, which is quite a bit. But don’t worry, it makes 8 servings, great for sharing at family events or parties.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 67mg |
| Sodium | 550mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 11g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Vitamins | A, C |
| Minerals | Calcium, Iron |
Caloric Content and Serving Size
The corn casserole is tasty, but it’s high in calories. With 371 calories per serving, it can add up quickly. Remember, it makes 8 servings, so watch your portion sizes to stay healthy.
Healthier Alternatives
Want a lighter version of this dish? Try using low-fat dairy like skim milk or reduced-fat cheese. You can also use less cheese or add more veggies. These changes make the casserole healthier without losing its flavor.
Fun Facts About Corn Casserole
Corn casserole is a comfort food loved by many. It has a rich history and many variations across the United States. This dish, also called corn pudding, has been a staple for generations, adding warmth and nostalgia to meals.
Historical Background
The roots of corn casserole go back to Native American and Southern cuisine. Native Americans used corn in many dishes. When European settlers came, they adopted local ingredients, shaping corn casserole.
In the mid-20th century, cornbread mixes made it easier and more popular. This solidified its place in American food culture.
Regional Variations
As corn casserole spread, different regions added their own twists. In the Southwest, it got a Mexican flavor with green chiles, jalapeños, and spices. These add a spicy kick, making it great for Tex-Mex meals.
In the South, cream cheese is often used, making it creamy. Some recipes add sugar to highlight the corn’s sweetness. The South also adds a buttery, crumbly topping for a nice contrast.
Corn casserole is a beloved dish in many places. It’s a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays. Its adaptability has made it a classic in America, enjoyed by many.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re new to making Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole or just want to perfect your technique, you may have some questions. This section addresses common queries and provides troubleshooting tips to help you achieve the best results every time. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient substitutions, make-ahead options, or how to store leftovers, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the most frequently asked questions about this delicious corn casserole recipe.
Common Queries About Corn Casserole
One of the most common questions about corn casserole is whether you can make it ahead of time. The answer is yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Another popular query is about substitutions for ingredients like the Jiffy corn muffin mix. While the mix is a key component of the recipe, you can use a homemade cornbread mix or even a gluten-free alternative if needed. People also often ask about using fresh corn instead of canned, which is possible but may require adjusting the cooking time and liquid content.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues like a runny or undercooked casserole, don’t panic. These problems are usually easy to fix. A runny casserole often means too much liquid was added or the baking time was insufficient. To avoid this, ensure you measure ingredients carefully and bake the casserole until it’s golden brown and set in the center. If your casserole is too dry, you may have overbaked it or added too much of the dry ingredients. To prevent this, keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes and remove it from the oven when it’s just set. Remember, the casserole will continue to firm up as it cools, so avoid the temptation to overbake.