I always look forward to making this dish, knowing it brings smiles to everyone around my table. This scalloped corn recipe, with its incredible Cheddar Top and a subtle Paprika Dust, delivers crispy edges and a creamy center that’s just irresistible. It transforms simple pantry ingredients into a family-friendly favorite, perfect for busy weeknights when I need a reliable, hearty side. Get ready to discover your new go-to comfort food side dish!
Simple Ingredients for a Standout Scalloped Corn Recipe
Crafting this hearty scalloped corn recipe starts with straightforward ingredients you likely have on hand. Each component plays a vital role in building that delicious flavor and texture everyone loves.
Core Comfort Components:
- Canned or Frozen Corn: 2 cups (300g) of drained canned corn or thawed frozen corn. This forms the sweet, hearty base of our scalloped corn.
- Heavy Cream or Whole Milk: 1 ½ cups (360ml) for that essential rich, creamy texture. (I often use whole milk for a slightly lighter touch on weeknights!)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups (150g) freshly shredded. Melts beautifully for a golden, cheesy crust over your scalloped corn recipe. (A good quality block of extra-sharp Cheddar makes all the difference here.)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted, for building our roux and adding richness.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (18g) for our secret velvety, lump-free sauce base. (For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.)
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon (2g). This “magic dust” adds a savory, colorful finish and a hint of smoky depth.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing all those delicious flavors.
Smart Swaps & Flavor Boosters:
- Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider diced bell peppers, a spoonful of chopped fresh chives, or a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth.
- Cheese Variations: Monterey Jack or Colby cheese offer a milder profile if you prefer less sharpness than Cheddar.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened almond milk and your favorite plant-based shredded cheese for a similar creamy result. This makes it a great family-friendly option for dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free flour blend to maintain the sauce’s thickness.
Freshness & Quality Notes:
- Choose quality canned corn or thaw frozen corn well for the best texture and natural sweetness in your scalloped corn.
- Freshly grated Cheddar melts much smoother and provides a better flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
Easy Steps to Your Perfect Cheesy Scalloped Corn
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, cheesy scalloped corn dish that will impress everyone. This easy dinner idea is straightforward from start to finish.
- Prep Your Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) or 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish. This ensures your scalloped corn won’t stick and releases easily, perfect for a quick meal prep recipe.
- Make the Creamy Base: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking for 1 minute until a smooth, light golden paste (your roux) forms and smells nutty.
- Whisk in Liquids: Gradually pour in 1 ½ cups of milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk and cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture visibly thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season generously with salt and fresh black pepper.
- Add the Corn & Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of drained corn (or thawed frozen corn) and 1 ½ cups of shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese until the cheese is completely melted and combined into the creamy sauce. The mixture should look velvety and homogenous. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; I sometimes add a tiny bit more salt here.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the rich corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden. If the sauce seems too thin, let it bake a few minutes longer until it firms up. If it looks a little dry, a splash of milk stirred in can loosen it right up before baking.
- The Paprika Finish: Carefully remove the scalloped corn recipe from the oven. Sprinkle generously with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for that vibrant color and extra depth of flavor. For a crisper, more deeply browned top, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes after adding paprika, watching it very carefully to prevent burning. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting, cheesy scalloped corn!
Enjoying Your Scalloped Corn: Perfect Pairings & Smart Storage
This hearty scalloped corn is a versatile side dish, perfect for many occasions. For family weeknights, it’s an ideal easy healthy dinner idea side. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for potlucks and gatherings because it travels so well.
- Ideal Serving Occasions:
- Holiday Feasts: A classic addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
- Family Weeknights: An easy healthy dinner idea side for busy evenings.
- Potlucks & Gatherings: Always a crowd-pleaser that travels well.
- Comfort Food Sunday: Pairs perfectly with roast chicken or your favorite main.
- Delicious Pairings:
- Main Dishes: Roast turkey, savory meatloaf, grilled chicken, or hearty meatballs.
- Other Sides: Green bean casserole, roasted vegetables, a simple fresh salad.
- Toppings: Extra chives, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy fried onions.
- Storage & Reheating for Scalloped Corn:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a great candidate for quick meal prep recipes.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for future easy dinner ideas. Best for up to 2-3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven (covered) at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes in the oven. I always add a splash of milk if it seems dry to keep it creamy.
Nourishing Benefits of This Hearty Scalloped Corn Recipe
This comforting classic provides sustained energy, making it an excellent family-friendly addition to your table. Corn offers a good source of dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion. The dairy contributes calcium and protein, essential for bone health and satiety, which can support healthy eating habits.
This scalloped corn recipe is easily customized to be a quick meal prep recipe, offering a convenient side for various diets. With simple modifications, it can fit into easy healthy dinner ideas or even be a low-carb option by using cauliflower or zucchini instead of corn for a similar texture.
Scalloped Corn: Your Go-To for Everyday Meals
- Budget-Friendly: This creamy corn dish uses common, affordable pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly choice for family meals.
- Time-Saving: Enjoy quick prep and hands-off baking, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Wellness Support: A comforting side that can be made lighter or richer to suit your nutritional goals and support healthy eating.
- Incredibly Versatile: This comforting side adapts easily to dietary needs and pairs wonderfully with almost any main course.
Pro Tips & Clever Adjustments for Your Scalloped Corn Recipe
- Flavor Enhancements:
- Use freshly grated Cheddar for a smoother melt and richer taste in your scalloped corn.
- Bloom your smoked paprika in a tiny bit of melted butter before sprinkling for deeper color and aroma; I find this really makes the Paprika Dust pop!
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Texture Tweaks:
- For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese before baking this comforting dish.
- If you prefer a thicker creamy corn, reduce the milk slightly or add an extra teaspoon of flour to your roux.
- Kid-Friendly Options:
- Use a milder cheese like Colby or Monterey Jack for a gentler flavor profile.
- Go light on the paprika or omit it entirely if kids are sensitive to spices.
- Add crispy fried onions or crushed crackers to the topping for extra crunch. My kids love it when I use a buttery cracker topping, especially a touch of fine breadcrumbs for a nice crust.
Your Scalloped Corn Recipe Questions Answered
Q: Is scalloped corn good for weight loss?
A: While classic scalloped corn is a hearty comfort food, it can be adapted. Use skim milk, reduce cheese, or swap corn for lower-carb vegetables like riced cauliflower for a specific low-carb meal option, maintaining a similar texture. This makes it suitable for healthy eating.
Q: Where to buy quality scalloped corn ingredients?
A: You can find high-quality corn (canned or frozen), good Cheddar cheese, and smoked paprika at any major grocery store. Look for organic ingredients if preferred for your scalloped corn recipe.
Q: Can I use scalloped corn in meal prep plans?
A: Absolutely! This scalloped corn is excellent for meal prep. Cook a batch, divide into individual portions, and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I make this scalloped corn recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the full scalloped corn recipe mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best bubbly texture and fresh taste.
Q: What kind of corn is best for scalloped corn?
A: Both canned (drained) and thawed frozen corn work wonderfully for this scalloped corn recipe. If using fresh corn, blanch it first for a few minutes to ensure tenderness.
Q: Can I add meat to my scalloped corn?
A: Certainly! Cooked, diced chicken or small turkey pieces are delicious additions to your scalloped corn. Stir them in with the corn before baking for extra flavor and protein, making it a more substantial family meal.
Q: Why is my scalloped corn runny?
A: A runny scalloped corn often means the sauce didn’t thicken enough during the cooking process. Ensure your roux is cooked properly and the sauce simmers long enough. Baking it a bit longer, uncovered, can also help firm it up. I sometimes find an extra minute or two in the oven does the trick.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Scalloped Corn Awaits
This comforting corn dish is more than just a side; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a family favorite for healthy eating and convenient family dinners. I hope you’ll enjoy this comforting dish as much as we do. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board for future easy dinner ideas and meal inspiration!
scalloped corn recipe Cheddar Top With Paprika Dust
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This scalloped corn recipe features crispy edges and a creamy center with a Cheddar Top and Paprika Dust. It transforms simple pantry ingredients into a family-friendly, hearty side dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups drained canned or thawed frozen corn
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or whole milk
- 1.5 cups freshly shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) or 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish.
- Make Creamy Base: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, cooking for 1 minute until a smooth, light golden paste (your roux) forms and smells nutty.
- Whisk in Liquids: Gradually pour in 1.5 cups milk or heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk and cook for 3-5 minutes until the mixture visibly thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season generously with salt and fresh black pepper.
- Add Corn & Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 2 cups drained corn and 1.5 cups shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese until the cheese is completely melted and combined into the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the rich corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- The Paprika Finish: Carefully remove the scalloped corn from the oven. Sprinkle generously with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. For a crisper, more deeply browned top, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes, watching it very carefully to prevent burning. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use unsweetened almond milk and plant-based shredded cheese. Consider adding diced bell peppers, chopped fresh chives, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Monterey Jack or Colby cheese offer a milder profile than Cheddar. Use quality canned corn or thaw frozen corn well, and freshly grated Cheddar for the best flavor and texture. If the sauce seems too thin while baking, let it bake a few minutes longer; if it looks a little dry, a splash of milk stirred in can loosen it up before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup
- Calories: 250 calories
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 26 mg
Keywords: scalloped corn, cheesy, side dish, comfort food, easy, weeknight, cheddar, paprika, creamy, baked