Ina Garten’s Corn Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of corn. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any special occasion, this casserole is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

What is Ina Garten Corn Casserole?

Ina Garten’s Corn Casserole is a rich and creamy dish made with fresh or frozen corn, cheese, and a luscious custard-like base. It’s baked to golden perfection, resulting in a comforting side dish that complements a wide variety of main courses.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Simple yet flavorful: Combines minimal ingredients for maximum flavor.
Crowd-pleasing: A guaranteed hit at potlucks or holiday meals.
Customizable: Easily adapted with additional ingredients like jalapeños or bacon.
Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.
Versatile pairing: Pairs well with roasted meats, grilled dishes, or vegetarian mains.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Corn kernels: 4 cups (fresh or frozen, thawed).
Eggs: 2 large.
Heavy cream: 1 cup.
Butter: 1/4 cup, melted.
Sugar: 2 tablespoons (optional, for extra sweetness).
All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons.
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Shredded cheese: 1 cup (cheddar or Monterey Jack).
Chives or parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish.

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the custard base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, melted butter, sugar (if using), flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine with corn and cheese

Add the corn kernels and shredded cheese to the custard mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the corn is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake the casserole

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve warm.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Roast chicken or turkey: A classic pairing for holiday meals.
Grilled steak or pork chops: Complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
Vegetarian mains: Great alongside stuffed peppers or mushroom dishes.
Crisp salad: Balances the richness of the casserole with fresh greens.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Use fresh corn if possible: Fresh kernels provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen works well when out of season.
Don’t overbake: Bake just until the center is set to ensure a creamy texture.
Customize the flavor: Add diced jalapeños, green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Bacon and cheese: Mix in crispy bacon and extra cheese for a savory twist.
Mexican-inspired: Add cumin, cilantro, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
Herbaceous touch: Stir in fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for added depth.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Corn Casserole

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for corn casserole?

Yes, frozen corn works well for corn casserole. Thaw the corn completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture to ensure the casserole bakes evenly.

How do you make corn casserole ahead of time?

To make corn casserole ahead of time, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

How do you know when the corn casserole is done?

Corn casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and the center is set but slightly soft. Insert a toothpick into the middle; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can corn casserole be frozen?

Yes, corn casserole can be frozen. Assemble the dish without baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Corn Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make time and time again.

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