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As a home cook who loves creating comforting side dishes I’ve discovered that scalloped corn is one of those versatile recipes that never fails to impress. This creamy classic combines sweet corn with rich dairy and a perfectly crispy topping that’ll have your guests asking for seconds.
I’ve spent years perfecting various scalloped corn recipes and I’m excited to share my favorite versions with you. Whether you’re looking for a traditional holiday side dish or a cozy weeknight dinner addition you’ll find these recipes incredibly easy to follow. From scratch-made cream sauce to convenient shortcuts using canned corn I’ll show you how to make this beloved comfort food your own.
Key Takeaways
- Scalloped corn is a classic American casserole that combines corn kernels with cream sauce and buttery breadcrumbs, originating in the Midwest during the 1950s.
- The basic recipe requires simple ingredients like corn (fresh, frozen, or canned), heavy cream, butter, flour, eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs, baked until golden brown at 350°F.
- Creative variations include Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Corn with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar, and Southwest Style with green chilies, bell peppers, and Mexican spices.
- The dish can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months when properly wrapped.
- Scalloped corn pairs well with various proteins like roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, and pork chops, and can be complemented with vegetable sides for a complete meal.
Scalloped Corn Recipes
Scalloped corn combines fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels with a rich cream sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown. This classic American casserole gets its name from the traditional scalloped pattern created by overlapping the breadcrumb topping.
Traditional Ingredients
Classic scalloped corn recipes features:
- Whole kernel corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Heavy cream or milk
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Yellow onion
- Seasoned breadcrumbs
- Salt & white pepper
- Eggs (for binding)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
Origin and History
Scalloped corn emerged in the American Midwest during the 1950s alongside other popular casserole dishes. The recipe’s development coincided with the rise of convenience foods, particularly the availability of canned cream soups. Midwestern farm families created this dish as a practical way to serve abundant corn harvests, transforming simple corn into an elevated side dish suitable for social gatherings. The term “”scalloped”” originated from the French culinary technique of cooking foods in a cream sauce, though American cooks adapted it to match local ingredients and tastes.
| Time Period | Culinary Development |
|---|---|
| 1950s | First documented scalloped corn recipes |
| 1960s | Addition of processed cheese variations |
| 1970s | Introduction of cornflake topping alternatives |
| Present | Multiple regional variations with local ingredients |
Classic Scalloped Corn Recipe
I’ve perfected this traditional scalloped corn recipes through countless preparations, achieving a creamy texture with a golden-brown crust. This recipe serves 8-10 people using simple pantry ingredients combined with fresh corn.
Key Preparation Steps
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mix 4 cups corn kernels with 2 beaten eggs in a large bowl
- Create a roux with 4 tablespoons butter and 3 tablespoons flour
- Stir in 2 cups whole milk gradually, cooking until thickened
- Combine sauce with corn mixture plus 1 teaspoon salt & 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Top with 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Bake 45 minutes until bubbly with a golden top
- Drain canned corn thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole
- Let cream sauce cool 5 minutes before combining with eggs
- Use room temperature ingredients for even cooking
- Place baking dish on middle rack for uniform browning
- Test doneness by inserting a knife in center (comes out clean)
- Rest casserole 10 minutes before serving
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories per serving |
|---|---|---|
| Corn kernels | 4 cups | 185 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 75 |
| Butter | 6 tbsp | 102 |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | 55 |
Creative Recipe Variations
I’ve developed these innovative takes on traditional scalloped corn to add exciting flavors while maintaining the classic creamy texture. These variations transform the basic recipe into distinctive dishes perfect for different occasions or taste preferences.
Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Corn
This indulgent version combines smoky bacon with sharp cheddar cheese for a rich flavor profile. I mix 8 crispy bacon strips (crumbled) into the corn mixture before baking. The sauce incorporates 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese plus 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan in the topping. A dash of garlic powder enhances the savory notes while paprika adds a subtle warmth to complement the bacon.
Southwest Style Scalloped Corn
This zesty adaptation features Mexican-inspired ingredients for a bold twist. I add 1 can of diced green chilies, 1 diced red bell pepper, 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro to the base recipe. The topping combines crushed tortilla chips with Mexican cheese blend. The cream sauce includes 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, chili powder plus a pinch of cayenne for authentic Southwest heat.
| Variation | Added Calories/Serving | Prep Time | Key Add-ins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Bacon | +120 calories | 15 minutes | Bacon, Sharp Cheddar, Parmesan |
| Southwest | +85 calories | 20 minutes | Chilies, Bell Pepper, Mexican Spices |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Instructions
I prepare scalloped corn up to 24 hours in advance by:
- Assembling the casserole without the breadcrumb topping
- Covering tightly with plastic wrap
- Storing in the refrigerator at 40°F
- Adding the breadcrumb topping just before baking
- Increasing baking time by 10-15 minutes when cooking from chilled
Freezing Guidelines
My tested freezing method includes:
- Cooling the baked casserole completely
- Wrapping in plastic wrap then aluminum foil
- Labeling with date (keeps for 3 months)
- Thawing overnight in refrigerator
- Reheating at 350°F for 25-30 minutes
Storage Details
Here’s how I store leftovers properly:
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 40°F | 3-4 days | Airtight container |
| Freezer | 0°F | 3 months | Freezer-safe dish |
- Microwaving individual portions for 1-2 minutes
- Reheating larger portions in 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes
- Adding 2-3 tablespoons milk to restore creaminess
- Covering with foil to prevent drying
- Crisping topping under broiler for 1-2 minutes
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
I pair scalloped corn with these complementary main dishes:
- Roast turkey with sage butter
- Honey-glazed ham
- Grilled chicken breasts
- Pan-seared pork chops
- Meatloaf with tomato glaze
Here are protein-based side dishes that enhance scalloped corn:
- Crispy bacon bits as garnish
- Diced ham mixed into the casserole
- Shredded rotisserie chicken layers
- Crumbled Italian sausage topping
- Chorizo pieces for spicy kick
These vegetable sides create a balanced plate:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Steamed green beans
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Wilted garlic spinach
- Roasted asparagus spears
The ideal serving temperatures for scalloped corn are:
| Temperature | Serving Method | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 165°F | Fresh from oven | Family dinners |
| 155°F | Buffet style | Large gatherings |
| 145°F | Make-ahead | Potlucks |
For optimal presentation, I garnish with:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Paprika sprinkle
- Toasted breadcrumbs
- Crispy fried onions
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling water
- Unsweetened iced tea
- Light lager beer
A Perfect Recipe for Every Occasion
I’m confident that scalloped corn will become your new favorite side dish once you try these scalloped corn recipes. From the classic version to exciting variations with bacon and Southwest flavors there’s a perfect recipe for every occasion.
I’ve shared my tested tips storage methods and serving suggestions to help you create this comforting casserole with ease. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a simple family dinner scalloped corn’s versatility and make-ahead convenience make it an ideal choice.
Give these recipes a try and discover why this beloved Midwestern dish has stood the test of time. Happy cooking!
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