Spicy Southwest Corn Casserole

Name: Spicy Southwest Corn Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups fresh corn kernels; 1 cup diced red bell pepper; 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 35 min

🍽 Serves: 8

Spicy Southwest Corn Casserole is the comfort dish you didn't know you needed. Packed with vibrant veggies and a bit of heat, it’s perfect for spicing up your weeknight dinners or sharing at potlucks. Just the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Print Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Packs a punch of flavor with a perfect balance of spice and creaminess.
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests.
Uses fresh, simple ingredients that highlight the best of the season.
Versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

3 cups fresh corn kernels

1 cup diced red bell pepper

1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced

1/4 cup chopped green onions

2 large eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons melted butter

1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips

Step-by-step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a light greasing so your casserole doesn't stick later on.

In a large mixing bowl, toss in the corn, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and green onions. Mix them until they’re evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sour cream until smooth. Pour this mixture over the veggies and stir until everything’s well coated.

Add the pepper jack cheese, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly seasoned.

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, making sure it’s spread out evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top — this will help the tortilla chips stick and give everything a lovely golden finish.

Finally, sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is set and the top is crisp and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it slices nicely.

Tips & Tricks

If you like extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
For a smokier flavor, try grilling the corn before adding it to the casserole.
Make it ahead of time: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Just add the tortilla chips and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is fantastic served alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to keep things fresh and vibrant. For a themed dinner, serve it with guacamole and salsa on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?: Absolutely! This dish is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can add black beans for extra protein.
What cheese can I use instead of pepper jack?: If you prefer less heat, Monterey Jack or cheddar are good alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Ingredients Explained

Corn: The star of the show, fresh corn kernels offer sweetness and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen or canned work just as well.

Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and sweetness, balancing the heat from the jalapeño.

Jalapeño: Brings the heat. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Green onions: Offer a mild oniony flavor without overpowering the dish.

Eggs: Help bind the casserole together, giving it structure.

Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, complementing the spices.

Pepper jack cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a touch of spice.

Cumin and smoked paprika: These spices add depth and a smoky, earthy flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp up the topping.

Crushed tortilla chips: Provide a delightful crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and green onions.

3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and sour cream, then stir into the vegetable mixture.

4. Add in the pepper jack cheese, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, then sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

8. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

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