Veg Recipes Mason Williams March 29, 2025 0 Comments

Scalloped Corn

Scalloped corn is one of those timeless comfort foods that has graced family dinner tables for generations. It’s warm, creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with the wholesome goodness of corn. Whether served as a side at holiday feasts, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this dish has a way of bringing people together. But what makes scalloped corn so special? Let’s dive deep into its history, variations, and, of course, a foolproof recipe you can recreate in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Scalloped Corn

The term “scalloped” refers to a method of baking food with a creamy sauce and breadcrumbs, often resulting in a golden, crispy topping. While many associate this technique with potatoes, scalloped corn has its own place in American cuisine. Originating from traditional Midwestern cooking, this dish was developed as a way to make corn more versatile and satisfying. Corn has long been a staple in American agriculture, and scalloped corn showcases its natural sweetness while adding layers of texture and flavor.

Why Scalloped Corn is a Must-Have Dish

Scalloped corn is beloved for many reasons:

Easy to Make: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even casual dinners.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy, buttery corn with a crispy topping is irresistible.
Customizable: You can tweak the recipe with extra ingredients to make it your own.

Essential Ingredients for Scalloped Corn

To make a classic scalloped corn recipe, you’ll need:

2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained (or fresh corn equivalent)
1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines work best)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or a mix)
1/4 cup sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet touch)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (for extra depth of flavor)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfect Scalloped Corn

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the drained corn, creamed corn, milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
Add texture: Stir in half of the crushed crackers and half of the shredded cheese.
Transfer to a baking dish and spread evenly.
Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining crackers and cheese over the top to create a crispy, cheesy crust.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Ways to Customize Scalloped Corn

One of the best things about scalloped corn is its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to change it up:

Add protein: Toss in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Kick up the spice: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Make it cheesier: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or gruyère for added richness.
Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Vegetarian Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for extra depth.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Scalloped Corn

Scalloped corn pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some excellent pairings:

Roast Chicken or Turkey: The creamy texture complements roasted poultry beautifully.
Baked Ham: The sweet and savory notes of ham are a perfect match.
BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The richness of BBQ balances the creaminess of scalloped corn.
Grilled Steak: A great side to contrast the bold flavors of grilled meats.
Salads: A fresh, crisp salad provides a nice balance to the dish’s creaminess.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Make Scalloped Corn

Scalloped corn is more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic, comforting recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, with all the customization options, you can make it your own every time you cook it.

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turns out! Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make scalloped corn ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking as usual.

2. Can I freeze scalloped corn?

Absolutely. Bake it first, let it cool, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

3. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 3 cups of fresh corn and add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or cream to maintain moisture.

4. How do I prevent scalloped corn from being too runny?

Make sure to drain excess liquid from the canned corn, and use whole milk or cream instead of low-fat alternatives. Baking it long enough also ensures it sets properly.

5. What’s the best cracker topping for scalloped corn?

Ritz crackers provide a buttery crunch, while saltines add a more neutral, crisp topping. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used for an extra crispy bite.

Share this content: