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Kid-Approved Cheesy Corn Casserole: Easy Buttery Cracker Topping

cheesy corn casserole - featured image

This cheesy corn casserole with a buttery cracker topping is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly comfort food that pleases both kids and adults. With simple pantry ingredients and a creamy, cheesy filling, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday tables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15.25 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (about half a medium onion)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 sleeve (about 40 crackers) Ritz or similar buttery crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Drain the whole kernel corn thoroughly in a colander. Pat dry with paper towels if desired.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, and beaten egg. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Stir in both types of corn, the shredded cheddar, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Fold gently until evenly combined.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a rubber spatula. The filling should be about 1.5 inches deep.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed crackers and melted butter for the topping. Stir until every crumb is coated. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar and toss gently.
  7. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole. Do not press it down.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set properly.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature sour cream and egg. Shred your own cheddar cheese for smoother melting. Do not skip the 10-minute resting time after baking to allow the casserole to set. If using a glass baking dish, reduce oven temperature by 25°F. To make gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free crackers. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat well.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy corn casserole, buttery cracker topping, easy corn casserole, kid-friendly casserole, comfort food, side dish, holiday side dish