Corn Shell Casserole
A comforting corn mac casserole with sweet and buttery corn, creamy cheddar, and tender shell pasta—perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering a golden, bubbly classic comfort dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the whole grain corn, cream-style corn, shell macaroni, margarine, and diced cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Bake the mixture at 350° Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mix. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of crunch, top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs before baking. This dish also works well with frozen corn if fresh isn't available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Corn Shell Casserole as a hearty side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or a fresh salad, such as Tossed Vegetables Vinaigrette, for a balanced meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Shell Casserole contains roughly 956 calories, with 26g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (55% of the Daily Value), protein (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg 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 ahead of time by mixing the ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with butter or a plant-based spread for a similar result. If you're looking for a healthier option, olive oil can also be used, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the macaroni. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Ensure all other ingredients, like the canned corn, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).