Corn Loaf
Corn Loaf is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, baked to perfection. Its vibrant flavors and tender texture make it a versatile option suitable for family dinners or potlucks, offering a comforting taste of home with a spicy kick from cayenne pepper.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together whole corn, creamed corn, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, shredded cheese, eggs, canned milk, and water.
- Let the mixture set for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish or loaf pan.
- Bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45-50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. You can also substitute the whole corn with frozen corn for convenience. Using pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheese adds a nice kick. If you prefer a lighter version, replace canned milk with unsweetened almond milk. For an extra texture, mix in some chopped jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the corn loaf warm with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or can be enjoyed as a side with grilled meats. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a hearty vegetable stew. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the corn loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick snack, but the oven method helps retain the loaf's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Loaf contains roughly 1007 calories, with 24g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (237% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (162% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2401mg per serving (104% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
Can I freeze the corn loaf?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap the corn loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. Alternatively, for extra heat, add chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Adjusting the spices allows you to customize the corn loaf to your taste.
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).