Mother'S Mexican Corn Casserole
Creamy and cheesy, this Mexican Corn Casserole combines pasta, corn, and tomatoes for a flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked macaroni, whole kernel corn with juice, cream-style corn, melted margarine, chopped onions, tomatoes with green chiles, salt, pepper, and grated Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you want extra spice, opt for a spicy version of the Ro-Tel tomatoes. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Fresh cilantro can add a burst of flavor if you have it on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with Ruby Bates' Mexican Cornbread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some spicy beans and cheese for extra flavor. It also makes for great leftovers for lunch, giving you a taste of comforting Mexican recipes any day of the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Mexican Corn Casserole contains roughly 431 calories, with 8g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2253mg per serving (98% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. If you do this, plan to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as instructed.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier dish. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions sprinkled on top before serving can also elevate the presentation and taste. A sprinkle of lime juice right before serving adds a refreshing zing.
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).