Scalloped Sweet Corn Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with a rich, creamy sauce and a golden, crispy topping. This casserole is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal, especially during the holidays or a family gathering. The corn is mixed with a velvety sauce made from cream, butter, and a hint of cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The result is a dish that’s creamy on the inside with a delightful crunch on top, offering a taste of pure comfort in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the cheese and seasonings: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with corn: Add the sweet corn kernels to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the corn evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Scalloped Sweet Corn Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to any meal. Its creamy texture and crispy topping make it an irresistible side that pairs well with a variety of main courses, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
