If you’ve ever wanted a comforting, golden-baked side dish that feels like a big warm hug, then this Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with natural sweetness from the corn, all baked to perfection in a small batch that’s just right for sharing (or savoring solo). This simple recipe combines pantry staples in a way that elevates humble ingredients into a dish that’s both homey and a little bit special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one, this corn casserole delivers comforting flavor without extra fuss or leftovers. Let’s dive into the magic waiting in this recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to striking the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and cheesy goodness in this Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the corn muffin mix adding a tender crumb to the melted butter that brings richness and depth.
- 14.5 oz cream style corn: This smooth corn forms the creamy base, lending natural sweetness and body to the casserole.
- 1 egg yolk (room temperature): Acts as a binder to help the casserole hold together beautifully and adds richness.
- 1.5 tbsp butter (melted): Brings a luscious buttery flavor and moist texture to every bite.
- 3/4 cup corn muffin mix: Provides structure and a satisfying crumb with a gentle corn flavor.
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness while seasoning the dish perfectly.
- 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred): Adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the overall texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese: Offers a punch of savory depth and gooey melted goodness on top.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end for a pop of color and fresh bite.
How to Make Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small baking dish or ramekin that will hold about two servings to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and gets a lovely browned bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream style corn, melted butter, egg yolk, and sour cream. Stir these together well to create a creamy, uniform base that will soak into the corn muffin mix.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the corn muffin mix and kosher salt. Mixing just until combined is key here because you want the batter to stay light and tender, not dense. The batter should have a thick but spoonable consistency.
Step 4: Pour and Top
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula and sprinkle the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese evenly on top. This cheesy layer will melt and form a golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the oven for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly, the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
How to Serve Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe
Garnishes
A light scatter of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a beautiful pop of green but also cuts through the richness with its bright, herbaceous flavor. For an extra touch, a tiny dusting of smoked paprika can lend a subtle smoky finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh summer salad. Its creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor complement protein-forward mains while adding a comforting element to lighter meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your corn casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You can also turn it into a layered plate by adding a scoop atop a bed of sautéed greens or next to a vibrant salsa for a burst of color and flavor contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe, cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and keep in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days, ready for a tasty next-day treat.
Freezing
This corn casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring your casserole back to life, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as the oven will best maintain its creamy texture and melted cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of cream style corn?
While frozen corn can work in a pinch, cream style corn is preferred for this recipe because it provides the essential creamy texture that holds the casserole together.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based spread, use a dairy-free sour cream alternative, and replace the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese to make a dairy-free version.
Can I make a larger batch of this casserole?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredient amounts accordingly and bake in a larger dish. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a bit longer.
What if I don’t have corn muffin mix?
If corn muffin mix isn’t available, a blend of cornmeal and all-purpose flour with a bit of baking powder can be a great substitute, although proportions might need adjusting.
How can I add some spice to this dish?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few diced jalapeños into the batter will give you a pleasant kick without overpowering the sweet corn flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe is such a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food without getting lost in leftovers. It’s perfect whenever you want that cozy, home-cooked feeling in a smaller, manageable portion. Give it a try — I promise it will become one of your favorite quick side dishes to whip up!
Print
Easy Corn Casserole for Two Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy corn casserole for two is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for a cozy meal. Made with cream-style corn, corn muffin mix, and sharp Cheddar cheese, it comes together quickly and bakes until golden brown. Ideal for small households or those craving a simple yet satisfying casserole, this recipe delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 14.5 oz cream style corn (I use Del Monte)
- 3/4 cup corn muffin mix
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1.5 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred for creaminess)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (sharp Cheddar for better flavor)
- fresh parsley (finely chopped for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cream style corn, corn muffin mix, kosher salt, egg yolk, melted butter, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a small baking dish suitable for two servings to prevent sticking.
- Pour Mixture: Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use full-fat sour cream for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar cheese adds depth but you can substitute with mild or medium cheddar if preferred.
- This recipe is perfect for two but can be doubled for larger servings.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set properly and avoid burns.
- Make sure the egg yolk is at room temperature to blend smoothly without curdling.
