Mexican-Style Baked Corn Casserole
A creamy, cheesy baked corn casserole bursting with sweet corn, fresh peppers, and Mexican cornmeal, perfect for family gatherings or a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz.) can cream-style corn ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup green pepper ⓘ
- 2 pimientos or 1 fresh red pepper ⓘ
- 2/3 cup milk ⓘ
- 1 beaten egg
- 4 Tbsp. margarine ⓘ
- 1 cup Mexican cornmeal mix (Martha White) ⓘ
- 1 cup grated sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- pepper to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine cream-style corn, whole kernel corn, chopped onion, green pepper, and pimientos in a bowl.
- Stir in milk, beaten egg, and melted margarine.
- Add Mexican cornmeal mix, grated sharp Cheddar cheese, sugar, and pepper to taste.
- Pour mixture into a well-greased 7½ x 11‑inch Pyrex baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or substituting the green pepper with a hotter variety. You can also use a gluten-free cornmeal mix if needed. If you don't have margarine, melted butter works well too. Adjust the cheese type to suit your taste; a pepper jack can add a nice twist. For a sweeter flavor, add more sugar or even a touch of honey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main vegetarian option. It pairs beautifully with Cool Mexican Dip for a flavorful appetizer spread. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or as a filling in burritos from a recipe like Burrito Casserole (Makes 8 To 10 Burritos.) for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if the casserole seems dry. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican-Style Baked Corn Casserole contains roughly 528 calories, with 9g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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. Just combine all the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese substitute that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor if you're avoiding cheese altogether. For different flavor profiles, consider using feta or goat cheese.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground beef or shredded chicken can be added for a heartier dish. Brown the meat before mixing it with the other ingredients, ensuring it's well-seasoned to complement the flavors of the casserole. This addition can turn it into a complete meal.
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).