Scalloped Corn

Scalloped Corn: A Creamy and Comforting Classic

Prepare to indulge in a timeless comfort dish with our Scalloped Corn recipe. This side dish, brimming with the sweet essence of corn and the creamy richness of a delectable sauce, is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through creating this homestyle favorite. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, Scalloped Corn is the perfect addition to your table.

Ingredients

For the Scalloped Corn:

  • 4 cups frozen corn kernels
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Prepare the Scalloped Corn:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
  2. Cook the Corn:
    • In a saucepan, cook the frozen corn according to package instructions. Drain any excess liquid.
  3. Create the Sauce Base:
    • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
  4. Add Milk and Cream:
    • Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
  5. Season the Sauce:
    • Stir in sugar, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Temper the Eggs:
    • Take a small portion of the sauce and slowly whisk it into the beaten eggs to temper them. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the sauce, whisking continuously.
  7. Incorporate Cheese:
    • Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s fully melted and well combined.
  8. Combine with Corn:
    • Fold the cooked corn into the cheese sauce, ensuring an even distribution.

Create the Topping:

  1. Prepare Cracker Topping:
    • In a bowl, combine crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are coated evenly.

Assemble and Bake:

  1. Layer in Baking Dish:
    • Transfer the corn mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Top with Cracker Mixture:
    • Sprinkle the prepared cracker topping over the corn mixture, creating a flavorful and crunchy layer.
  3. Bake to Golden Perfection:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the edges are bubbling.
  4. Serve Warm:
    • Allow the Scalloped Corn to cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm.

Cook Notes

  • Corn Choices:
    • While frozen corn works well, you can experiment with fresh corn kernels or even a combination of corn varieties for added complexity.
  • Cheese Selection:
    • Feel free to explore different cheese options like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.
  • Cracker Crunch:
    • Adjust the quantity of crackers in the topping to achieve your desired level of crunchiness.
  • Consistency Check:
    • The corn mixture should be creamy and moist, but not overly soupy. If needed, adjust with additional flour or cream.

Variations

Bacon Bliss:

  • Introduce crispy bacon bits into the corn mixture for a savory and smoky twist.

Herb Infusion:

  • Add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or chives to the cheese sauce for a burst of freshness.

Spice it Up:

  • Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Keto Versions

Cauliflower Swap:

  • Replace corn with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.

Almond Flour Magic:

  • Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in the sauce for a keto-friendly thickening agent.

Full-Fat Dairy:

  • Opt for full-fat milk and heavy cream to maintain richness while keeping the carbs low.

Low-Carb Versions

Zucchini Zing:

  • Swap corn for diced zucchini for a lower-carb veggie option.

Cheese Variety:

  • Experiment with lower-carb cheese varieties like mozzarella or goat cheese.

Nutty Crunch:

  • Mix in crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a low-carb crunchy topping.

A Homestyle Delight

In conclusion, Scalloped Corn isn’t just a dish; it’s a homestyle delight—a comforting and creamy creation that brings warmth to any meal. Whether you stick to the classic recipe, explore exciting variations, venture into keto adaptations, or opt for a low-carb twist, this dish invites you to savor the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

As the aroma of cheesy goodness fills your kitchen and you scoop a generous serving onto your plate, relish in the joy of creating a dish that transcends trends and fads. Scalloped Corn is a timeless classic that has earned its place on tables for generations. Share it with loved ones, make it a staple at holiday gatherings, and let it become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on the journey of crafting this homestyle favorite. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or the star of the meal, Scalloped Corn is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction. Embrace the simplicity of good ingredients, and let the creamy, comforting goodness of Scalloped Corn become a symbol of home in your kitchen.