Perfect Corn Casserole

**Ingredients:**
– 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
– 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
– 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy cornbread mix (or any other cornbread mix you prefer)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but recommended)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, depending on how sweet you like your casserole)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on your preference)

These ingredients come together in a beautiful symphony of flavors that will have your guests asking for the recipe.

#### How to Make Perfect Corn Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to make your corn casserole:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.

**Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn and the cream-style corn. Add the sour cream, melted butter, and granulated sugar (if using). Stir everything together until well combined.

**Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients**
– Next, add the Jiffy cornbread mix into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. You don’t need to overmix — the goal is to get the cornbread mix evenly incorporated into the wet ingredients.

**Step 4: Fold in the Cheese**
– Add the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, folding it gently into the batter. This step is optional, but it gives the casserole a rich, cheesy flavor and a beautiful golden crust when it bakes. If you want an extra cheesy kick, feel free to add more cheese to taste.

**Step 5: Pour and Bake**
– Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, and then place it in the preheated oven.
– Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

**Step 6: Let It Cool and Serve**
– Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This brief cooling period allows the casserole to set up, making it easier to serve and ensuring you get perfectly cut pieces.

#### Tips for the Best Corn Casserole

While this recipe is simple, here are a few tips to ensure that your corn casserole turns out absolutely perfect every time:

1. **Use Room Temperature Ingredients**: Let your sour cream and butter come to room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend together smoothly and results in a more consistent texture.

2. **Customize the Cheese**: While cheddar cheese is the go-to choice for most people, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a little heat.

3. **For Extra Flavor**: Add finely chopped green onions, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of paprika to the batter before baking for a little extra flavor. These additions can give the casserole a unique twist and add some color.

4. **Make It Ahead**: This casserole can be made ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

5. **Gluten-Free Version**: If you need a gluten-free version, check the cornbread mix for gluten content or use a certified gluten-free cornbread mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

#### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this **corn casserole** truly perfect? It’s a combination of the ease of preparation, the versatility in flavor, and its crowd-pleasing nature. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal, having a barbecue, or just need a comforting dish to round out a weeknight dinner, this corn casserole fits the bill.

– **Comforting and Satisfying**: The creamy, cheesy texture makes it a heartwarming dish that’s always comforting, no matter the season.
– **Kid-Friendly**: The sweet corn and mild flavor are perfect for kids, so it’s a great choice for family gatherings.
– **Leftovers**: Corn casserole makes amazing leftovers. Just reheat it for a quick, satisfying meal the next day.

#### Conclusion

When you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to make, delicious to eat, and loved by everyone, **perfect corn casserole** is the answer. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and a touch of cheese, it’s the ultimate side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday dinner or just for a comforting weeknight meal, this corn casserole will quickly become a favorite in your household.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to serve a dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. This is **corn casserole** at its finest — and it’s just waiting to make your next meal unforgettable.