Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust

Introduction

When I first made this Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole, I had no idea it would quickly become one of my family’s go-to side dishes. The combination of sweet honey, savory Parmesan, and the richness of sour cream creates a flavor profile that’s hard to beat. Every bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness, with the crispy Parmesan crust adding a satisfying crunch. My family devoured the entire dish in one sitting, and I’ve made it multiple times since. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and holiday dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 cans whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Prepare the Corn Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of drained whole kernel corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, melted butter, and honey. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly incorporated. The corn muffin mix will give the casserole a wonderful texture and help bind all the ingredients together.
3. Pour into Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter, then pour the corn mixture into the prepared dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure the mixture is level.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. The mozzarella will melt into the dish while the Parmesan forms a beautiful, crispy crust on top.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese will form a crispy, golden crust that adds both flavor and texture to the dish.
6. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives it time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: 250 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: This corn casserole pairs wonderfully with meats like roast chicken, grilled steak, or pork chops. It also complements more complex flavors like barbecued ribs.
• Holiday Dinners: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter as a warm, comforting side dish to accompany the holiday spread.
• Potluck or Family Gathering: Bring it along to potlucks, family gatherings, or neighborhood cookouts where it’s sure to be a hit with guests.
• With a Salad: Serve with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Breakfast Dish: Leftovers can be enjoyed for breakfast with scrambled eggs or bacon on the side.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Corn: If you have fresh corn available, you can substitute the canned corn for fresh kernels. Just cook the corn and cut it off the cob before adding it to the casserole.
2. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different flavor.
3. Make It Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the corn mixture for a spicy twist that complements the sweetness of the honey.
4. Use a Larger Dish: If you want to make a larger batch, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly.
5. Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the day before, stored in the refrigerator, and baked the following day. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from chilled.

Recipe Variations

• Cheddar and Bacon Casserole: For a richer, more savory twist, add crispy crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole. This variation brings a smoky flavor that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
• Vegetarian Version: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it even more filling by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Vegan Version: To make it vegan, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a soy-based sour cream. Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese blend.
• Spicy Corn Casserole: Add chopped green chilies or a spoonful of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika for depth.

Serving Suggestions

• With Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled steaks, chicken breasts, or pork tenderloin for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions for a fresh, herby touch.
• As Part of a Mexican-Inspired Meal: Pair with tacos, burritos, or grilled fajitas for a Mexican-themed dinner.
• With a Side of Greens: Complement the richness of the casserole with a refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Individual Portions: Consider freezing individual portions for easy reheating. This way, you can enjoy a warm slice of casserole whenever the craving strikes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn? Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the casserole.
2. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar texture and flavor.
3. Can I use a different type of muffin mix? While Jiffy corn muffin mix is recommended, you can use other corn muffin mixes, but the texture may vary slightly.
4. Is there a way to make this casserole spicier? Yes, you can add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the corn mixture for extra heat.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer. The flavor will be different, but it will still be delicious.
6. How do I know when the casserole is done? The casserole is done when the top is golden and bubbly. You can also check the center to make sure it’s firm and set.
7. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
8. How can I make this casserole lower in fat? Use low-fat sour cream and reduce the amount of butter used. You can also use a reduced-fat cheese.
9. Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, ensure the corn muffin mix is labeled gluten-free, or use a gluten-free corn muffin mix to keep the dish gluten-free.
10. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning.

Conclusion

Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust is a delicious, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as part of a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of sweet honey, rich sour cream, and the crispy cheese topping creates a flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Try it out, and it might just become your new favorite side dish!

Print