If you're in the mood for a comforting, flavorful side dish, look no further than this Creamy Jalapeño Corn Casserole. It's a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of heat from jalapeños, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
The base of this dish is cornmeal, giving it a hearty, slightly grainy texture. All-purpose flour helps bind everything together. A touch of sweetness from the sugar complements the savory elements. Sour cream and unsalted butter add richness and moisture, while the eggs provide structure. The stars of the show are the corn kernels and pickled jalapeños, offering bursts of sweetness and heat. Cheddar cheese melts into creamy pockets throughout, and diced green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor.
This casserole pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a juicy steak. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty salad or roasted vegetables. It’s also a winner at potlucks and holiday gatherings.
First off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole doesn't stick and makes for an easy cleanup. Now, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Give it a good mix so everything's evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. This mixture is going to make your casserole rich and creamy. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until everything is combined. You don't want to overmix or your casserole might turn out dense.
Next, gently fold in the corn kernels, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and green onions. These ingredients give the casserole its signature flavor and texture. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Pop it in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and make it easier to slice.