Corn Pudding Casserole with Butter Topping

Introduction

Corn Pudding Casserole with Butter Topping is a classic, comforting Southern side dish that is rich, creamy, and full of sweet corn flavor. The casserole features a custard-like texture with whole corn kernels, baked to golden perfection and finished with a buttery, slightly crisp topping.

This dish is a must-have for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, and it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, turkey, ham, or a hearty vegetarian main. Its sweet, creamy, and buttery flavors make it irresistible to both kids and adults alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance: Sweet corn, creamy custard, and buttery topping create a harmonious flavor profile.
• Comforting texture: Creamy, soft interior with a lightly crisp and buttery top.
• Versatile: Works for holidays, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.
• Simple yet impressive: Uses pantry staples but delivers a dish that feels gourmet.
• Kid-friendly: Loved by kids for its sweet, creamy flavor and smooth texture.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Corn pudding casserole is a must-try because it transforms ordinary corn into a luscious, creamy side dish that elevates any meal. Its custard-like texture, buttery topping, and golden crust make it a show-stopping addition to any dinner table, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive holiday feast.

Recipe Overview

Detail	Info
Preparation Time	15 minutes
Cooking Time	50–55 minutes
Total Time	65–70 minutes
Servings	6–8 servings
Course	Side Dish
Cuisine	American / Southern
Calories	~220 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 2 cups whole kernel corn (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
• 1 cup creamed corn
• ½ cup milk
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the Butter Topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: sprinkle of paprika or Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole kernel corn, creamed corn, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
2. Add sugar, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour.
3. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish.
2. Drizzle the 2 tbsp melted butter evenly over the top.
3. Optional: Sprinkle with paprika or Parmesan for extra flavor and color.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to set slightly.

How to Serve

• Serve as a side dish with roasted turkey, ham, chicken, or beef.
• Great addition to holiday meals, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners.
• Serve warm to enjoy the creamy, custard-like texture and buttery top.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn: Just ensure frozen corn is thawed and drained, and canned corn is drained.
• Do not overbake: Overbaking can make the pudding dry; it should be set but still creamy.
• Butter topping: Adds flavor and a golden finish; do not skip.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.
• Custard consistency: Stir ingredients gently; avoid overmixing to maintain creamy texture.

Variations

1. Cheesy Corn Pudding: Add ½ cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the mixture.
2. Spicy Corn Pudding: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a mild kick.
3. Bacon Corn Pudding: Stir in 4–6 cooked, crumbled bacon pieces for smokiness.
4. Herb-Infused Corn Pudding: Add 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme or rosemary.
5. Sweet Corn Pudding: Increase sugar to ⅓ cup and top with a light sprinkle of brown sugar.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Assemble the mixture without baking and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra 10–15 minutes to baking time.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick for testing doneness

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen corn?
Yes — thaw and drain before mixing. Adjust baking time if needed.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — assemble in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — substitute milk with plant-based milk and butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Q4: How do I get a golden top?
Drizzle melted butter over the top and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan or paprika before baking.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes — use a 9×13-inch dish and adjust baking time to 60–65 minutes.

Conclusion

Corn Pudding Casserole with Butter Topping is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting side dish that elevates any meal. Its sweet corn flavor, custard-like texture, and buttery golden topping make it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners. Easy to make, versatile, and delicious, it’s a must-try Southern classic that will be loved by everyone at the table.