Scalloped Corn is a beloved side dish made with sweet corn baked in a creamy, custard-style base and topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. Perfect for holiday tables, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this dish is simple, comforting, and full of old-fashioned flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with just about any main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Scalloped Corn is warm, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite. It’s easy to make with pantry staples, and it’s one of those dishes that tastes like home. The sweet corn contrasts beautifully with the savory custard, and the golden cracker topping gives it just the right amount of crunch. Plus, it’s just as good the next day—if there are any leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup minced onion
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 (14.75 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- ¾ cup crushed saltine or butter crackers (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon additional melted butter for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, pepper, and salt.
- Stir in the minced onion, melted butter, both types of corn, and the crushed crackers.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Mix additional crushed crackers with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Version: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese to the mix.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped green chilies for a little heat.
- Bacon Boost: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky flavor.
- Fresh Corn Option: Use about 2½ cups fresh corn kernels if in season.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Use buttered panko breadcrumbs instead of crushed crackers for a crispier top.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, thawed frozen corn can be used in place of whole kernel corn. Use about 1½ cups.
What can I use instead of crackers?
Crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or even croutons (lightly crushed) can work as alternatives.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add topping just before baking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! Cheese adds another layer of richness—cheddar and pepper jack are both great options.
Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you’re using a vegetarian-friendly cream-style corn and crackers.
What should I serve this with?
It’s perfect alongside ham, roast turkey, pork chops, or grilled chicken.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Why is my scalloped corn watery?
Be sure to drain the whole kernel corn well, and don’t skip the crackers—they help absorb excess moisture.
Can I omit the onion?
Yes, though it adds flavor. You could substitute with a little onion powder or shallots if preferred.
Conclusion
Scalloped Corn is a timeless side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, its creamy texture, sweet corn flavor, and crunchy topping make it an irresistible addition to the table. Try it once, and it just might become a new tradition.
Print
Scalloped Corn
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Scalloped Corn is a comforting and creamy casserole made with sweet corn, buttery crackers, and a rich custard base—an easy side dish perfect for holidays or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 (15 oz) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz), divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir in both the whole kernel corn and creamed corn, then fold in 1/2 cup of the crushed crackers.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup crushed crackers.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add a pinch of paprika or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Can be prepared a few hours in advance and baked just before serving.
- Use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned if preferred (adjust moisture as needed).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg