Special Occasion Breaded Corn
A savory baked corn casserole with green peppers, cheese, and crispy cracker topping, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings with comforting, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, green pepper, salt, and beaten eggs.
- Pour half of the mixture into a buttered 3-quart casserole dish.
- Crush a few crackers over the top of the mixture in the dish.
- Dot the cracker layer with butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining corn mixture into the dish.
- Sprinkle crushed crackers over the top, dot with butter, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
- Slowly pour milk over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 to 40 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle paprika over the top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers instead of saltines. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a nice flavor boost. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese. To make this dish spicier, incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the green pepper with diced onion or mushrooms based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This breaded corn casserole makes a delightful side dish for any special occasion or holiday meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or grilled chicken. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a fresh salad or with dishes like Easy Tortilla Pizzas. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they're covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Special Occasion Breaded Corn contains roughly 395 calories, with 10g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), calcium (18% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1231mg per serving (54% 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 use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can substitute frozen corn for canned corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the mixture. This will help maintain the right texture and prevent excess moisture from making the casserole soggy.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the corn mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an added kick.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it but do not bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).