If you’re searching for a dish that captures the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy, then the Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. This dish feels like a warm hug from the inside, combining tender, honey-infused corn baked under a golden, crispy layer of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. It’s not only a dazzling accompaniment to your holiday feasts but also a comforting everyday treat that brings out the best in simple ingredients. Once you taste this casserole, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed corn without that irresistible crust to top it off.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but come together to create an unforgettable harmony of flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role, from the sweetness of the honey to the crunch of the Parmesan crust.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon for greasing): Helps prevent sticking and adds subtle richness to the dish.
- Whole kernel corn (1 15-ounce can, drained): Adds delightful texture and bursts of corn flavor.
- Creamed corn (1 15-ounce can): Provides a creamy, smooth base that keeps the casserole moist.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together, ensuring a perfect set.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tangy creaminess, balancing the sweetness nicely.
- Honey (1/4 cup): Brings natural sweetness and that signature glaze that makes this dish so special.
- Melted unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Infuses richness throughout the casserole.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth.
- Cornmeal (1/2 cup): Provides subtle texture and heartiness.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Helps create structure for a light but firm casserole.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Leavens the dish just enough to keep it tender and airy.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Works in tandem with baking powder for perfect texture.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (1 cup, divided): Adds sharp, nutty flavor and forms that coveted crispy crust on top.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Give an extra crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy corn below.
How to Make Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F, ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your casserole evenly. While it heats, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with a tablespoon of unsalted butter. This step is essential to prevent sticking and to add a subtle buttery flavor that complements the corn perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn for the ideal blend of texture and creaminess. Crack in your eggs, then add the sour cream, honey, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This lovely, slightly sweet base is the heart of the Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This mix will give your casserole the right structure and light rise to hold all those delicious components together without weighing it down.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry into Wet
Gradually fold the dry cornmeal mixture into your wet corn batter, mixing just enough to blend everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix—just ensure there are no patches of flour remaining. After that, stir in half of the shredded Parmesan cheese. This step infuses cheesy goodness right into the batter for extra flavor throughout.
Step 5: Assemble and Top the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Next, mix the remaining Parmesan cheese with the panko breadcrumbs in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the casserole. This topping is what will bake into a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy corn underneath—the star feature of the Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake your casserole for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set—not jiggly—and the top boasts a golden, irresistible crispiness. Allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving, which helps the dish hold together perfectly when sliced.
How to Serve Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh burst of flavor, try sprinkling chopped herbs like thyme, chives, or even fresh parsley over the finished casserole. A light drizzle of extra honey can also accentuate the sweet highlights beautifully. These simple garnishes can brighten the presentation and complement the casserole’s layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains and sides. Think roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or grilled chicken for a hearty meal. For vegetable sides, try steamed green beans, sautéed kale, or a crisp salad to balance the casserole’s rich creaminess and cheesy crust.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch. Alternatively, layer scoops of the warm casserole over baked potatoes or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers to elevate your presentation. Whichever way you slice it, the Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe always shines.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient make-ahead side for busy weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole for longer storage. To do so, prepare and bake as directed, then cool completely. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or transfer leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results when reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from burning and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. If you want to regain some of that crispy crust magic, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels can add a lovely brightness and texture to this casserole. Use about 2 cups of fresh corn kernels, and be sure to slightly reduce any added liquids to maintain the right consistency.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer or need a substitute, Greek yogurt works beautifully. It offers similar creaminess and tang, and can be used in equal amounts without changing the overall flavor much.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, with some adjustments. Use vegan butter in place of unsalted butter, a dairy-free sour cream alternative, and omit or replace the Parmesan crust with nutritional yeast mixed with seasoned breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives is an easy way to brighten the dish. For a subtle kick, a pinch of smoked paprika or a little diced jalapeño can also boost the flavor profile without overpowering the honey’s sweetness.
How do I ensure the Parmesan crust stays crispy?
Make sure to sprinkle the Parmesan and panko crumb mixture evenly over the surface and bake uncovered at the right temperature. Avoid covering the dish with foil until reheating, because the crisp crust needs direct heat to form and stay crunchy.
Final Thoughts
This Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole proves that simple ingredients can transform into something truly special. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy sweet corn with a delightful crispy twist!
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Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole with a Crispy Parmesan Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Honey-Glazed Corn Casserole features a creamy, sweet corn base enhanced with honey and topped with a crispy, golden Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a flavorful side dish, this casserole combines whole kernel and creamed corn with a tender cornmeal batter, baked to a golden finish. It’s ideal for holiday meals or cozy dinners, delivering a delightful balance of sweetness, savory notes, and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing)
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Topping
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, eggs, sour cream, honey, melted unsalted butter, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended, creating a smooth, sweet-savory base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cornmeal for proper texture.
- Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredient mixture until fully incorporated and smooth. Then, stir in half (1/2 cup) of the shredded Parmesan cheese to add a rich, cheesy flavor throughout the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even cooking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese with 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to create a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set for clean slices and best flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs like thyme or chives to the batter before baking.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste and slightly lighter texture.
- Ensure the corn is well drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor in the topping.
