Description
If you’re looking for a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for any family dinner or gathering, look no further than the Cheesy Corn Delight Casserole. This dish combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and buttery crackers in a rich casserole that is both satisfying and delicious. The optional addition of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper gives it a delightful kick, making it a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste.
Ingredients
- 32 oz. frozen corn, thawed, divided
- 2 cups crushed butter crackers (like Ritz), divided
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 3 large eggs
- 1 and 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1 and 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly.
2. Mix Base Ingredients
In the baking dish, mix together 4 cups of corn, 1 cup of crushed crackers, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Set aside.
3. Prepare Corn Mixture
In a food processor or blender, blend the remaining corn, eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and if using, smoked paprika and cayenne until mostly smooth but with some bits of corn still visible for texture.
4. Combine and Bake
Pour the blended corn mixture over the cracker and cheese base in the baking dish. Stir to combine well. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the middle is mostly set but slightly jiggly.
5. Add Topping
While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping by combining the remaining crushed crackers, shredded cheese, and melted butter. Once the base is baked, remove from oven and evenly spread this topping over.
6. Final Baking
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown and crispy.
Servings & Preparation Time
- Servings: 8-10
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Corn Delight Casserole is a wonderful blend of sweet, creamy, and savory flavors that come together to create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a simple family meal or a larger gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Its ability to be made ahead and easily reheated also makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday preparations. Enjoy creating and sharing this cheesy delight!
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Cheesy Corn Delight Casserole
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: 8-10 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a decadent and comforting dish that’s perfect for any family dinner or gathering, look no further than the Cheesy Corn Delight Casserole. This dish combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and buttery crackers in a rich casserole that is both satisfying and delicious. The optional addition of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper gives it a delightful kick, making it a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste.
Ingredients
- 32 oz. frozen corn, thawed, divided
- 2 cups crushed butter crackers (like Ritz), divided
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 3 large eggs
- 1 and 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1 and 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In the baking dish, mix together 4 cups of corn, 1 cup of crushed crackers, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Set aside.
- Prepare Corn Mixture: In a food processor or blender, blend the remaining corn, eggs, half-and-half, salt, pepper, and if using, smoked paprika and cayenne until mostly smooth but with some bits of corn still visible for texture.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the blended corn mixture over the cracker and cheese base in the baking dish. Stir to combine well. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the middle is mostly set but slightly jiggly.
- Add Topping: While the casserole bakes, prepare the topping by combining the remaining crushed crackers, shredded cheese, and melted butter. Once the base is baked, remove from oven and evenly spread this topping over.
- Final Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes