Jalapeno Corn Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole combining tender rice, sweet corn, and spicy jalapenos, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for casual dinners or potlucks, it offers a creamy, savory taste with a hint of heat that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice until tender and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion, chopped celery, and chopped bell pepper until softened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, creamed corn, whole corn (if using), sautéed vegetables, and jalapenos to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Cut the oleo into small pieces and dot over the casserole.
- Bake in a hot oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice. You can also substitute oleo with unsalted butter or margarine. For a creamier texture, mix in a cup of sour cream before baking. This casserole can also be enhanced by adding shredded cheese to the rice mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jalapeno Corn Casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside some grilled chicken or beef. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a delightful addition to your American recipes collection.
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 (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Corn Casserole contains roughly 371 calories, with 13g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (326% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 91g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking and melting of the cheese.
What can I substitute for the creamed corn?
If you don’t have creamed corn, you can blend regular canned corn with a little cream or milk to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, you can use homemade cream-style corn by cooking fresh corn kernels with butter and a splash of cream until thickened.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. If freezing after baking, cool it completely before wrapping it for storage.
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).