Corn Au Gratin
Creamy and cheesy, Corn Au Gratin features tender corn in a rich, thickened sauce topped with Parmesan cheese and golden browned butter. Perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions, its savory flavors and crispy topping make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the thawed and drained corn with the evaporated milk and bring to a boil.
- Separate the corn from the milk, then return the milk to the heat.
- Make a paste from the reduced-calorie butter and flour, then add it to the milk to thicken.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, then add salt.
- Return the corn to the milk and bring back to a boil over low heat.
- Transfer the creamed corn to a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese.
- Dot the top with melted reduced-calorie butter.
- Brown under the broiler until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the sauce before combining it with the corn. If you're looking to lighten the dish further, substitute the nonfat evaporated milk with a plant-based milk. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a flavor boost. This dish is versatile and can be served as a side to grilled meats or a main alongside a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Corn Au Gratin is delightful on its own or served alongside roasted chicken or steak. It pairs beautifully with Eezey Lime Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Cottage Cheese Rolls, which offers a nice balance of flavors and textures. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Au Gratin contains roughly 211 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will enhance the flavor of the dish. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and use them in the same quantity as the frozen corn. Keep in mind that fresh corn may require a slightly shorter cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the nonfat evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk. Additionally, use a dairy-free butter substitute for the recipe. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, dairy-free version of Corn Au Gratin.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking in advance. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and follow the cooking instructions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).