Corn En Casserole
A cheesy, savory casserole combining corn, green chilies, ground meat, and crackers, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a hearty dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet until fully cooked.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, canned corn, chopped green chili peppers, rolled soda crackers, grated cheese, egg, and milk; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a slow oven until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. You can substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. If you want a spicier kick, try using pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheese. For a different texture, crushed tortilla chips can replace the soda crackers. This dish can also be paired with Calico Slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Corn En Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a side of Spiced Sweet Potato Casserole. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Let the casserole cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn En Casserole contains roughly 1441 calories, with 58g protein, 236g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (139% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (130% of the Daily Value), and protein (116% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1059mg per serving (46% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
While grated cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a blend. For a creamier texture, consider using cream cheese mixed with your choice of shredded cheese for a delicious twist.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, replace the soda crackers with crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs. Always check labels on canned ingredients, such as corn and green chilies, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
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).