Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as the Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole. This creamy, savory-sweet side dish has long been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals. Inspired by the iconic dish served at Cracker Barrel, this casserole combines the satisfying flavors of corn, butter, and a hint of sweetness to create a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming.

Making this recipe at home is not only incredibly simple but also allows you to enjoy the same rich flavors without stepping out of your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for the perfect accompaniment to your main course, this corn casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

Pair this casserole with another holiday favorite, such as Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole, for a complete festive spread.

In this article, I’ll guide you through every step to recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel’s famous recipe. You’ll also discover tips for perfecting it, creative variations, and even pairing suggestions to make your meal unforgettable. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole

Making the perfect Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole at home is surprisingly simple. By combining just a few essential ingredients, you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen. However, knowing how to choose the right ingredients and how they work together is just as important as the cooking process. Let’s dive into the core ingredients, optional additions, and substitution tips to make this casserole truly your own.

1. Essential Ingredients: The Core of the Recipe

To begin with, the foundation of any great casserole lies in its ingredients. For this dish, every item contributes something special, ensuring a perfectly balanced blend of flavors and textures.

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

Quantity: 1 box (8.5 oz).
Purpose: This corn muffin mix provides the base for the casserole, creating a fluffy texture with a touch of sweetness. Additionally, it simplifies the process, saving you time in the kitchen.
Tip: To achieve the authentic Cracker Barrel taste, stick with Jiffy. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, other cornbread mixes can work in a pinch.

Canned Whole Kernel Corn

Quantity: 1 can (15 oz), drained.
Purpose: Whole kernel corn adds texture to the dish, offering little pops of sweetness in every bite. Moreover, its natural flavor contrasts beautifully with the creamier elements of the casserole.
Tip: Always drain the corn thoroughly. Otherwise, excess liquid can make the casserole too watery.

Canned Creamed Corn

Quantity: 1 can (15 oz).
Purpose: Creamed corn brings richness and moisture to the casserole, binding all the ingredients together. Furthermore, it enhances the sweet, savory profile that makes this dish so irresistible.
Tip: If you don’t have creamed corn, you can easily substitute it by blending regular corn with a small amount of milk.

Butter

Quantity: ½ cup, melted.
Purpose: Butter adds a luxurious richness to the dish, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Not only that, but it also helps to balance the sweetness of the corn.
Tip: If you’re using salted butter, consider reducing any additional salt in the recipe.

Sour Cream

Quantity: 1 cup.
Purpose: Sour cream is the secret to the casserole’s creamy texture and tangy flavor. It balances out the sweetness of the corn, making the dish more complex and satisfying.
Tip: If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works as a great alternative.

2. Optional Ingredients: Customize Your Casserole

While the core ingredients are sufficient to make a delicious dish, adding a few extras can elevate the casserole to the next level. Whether you’re looking to add spice, creaminess, or crunch, these optional ingredients provide endless possibilities.

Cheddar Cheese

Quantity: 1 cup, shredded.
Purpose: Cheese lovers will adore the gooey, savory twist that cheddar adds to the dish. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the corn.
How to Use: Simply mix it into the batter for a creamy interior or sprinkle it on top before baking for a golden crust.

Diced Jalapeños

Quantity: 1-2 tablespoons, finely chopped.
Purpose: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapeños offer a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s creamy base. Additionally, they add a pop of color to the dish.
Tip: If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.

Crumbled Bacon

Quantity: ¼ cup.
Purpose: Bacon introduces a smoky, savory element that complements the sweetness of the corn. Moreover, its crispy texture adds an extra layer of appeal to the dish.
Tip: Sprinkle the bacon on top for a crunchy finish or mix it into the batter for even distribution.

3. Recommended Brands: For Authentic Flavor

When it comes to recreating restaurant-quality dishes, the brands you use can make a big difference. While you can certainly use generic products, sticking with these trusted names will give you a result that’s closer to the original.

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: Known for its consistent quality, this is the go-to choice for an authentic casserole.
Green Giant or Del Monte Corn: Both brands offer canned corn with great flavor and texture.
Daisy Sour Cream: This brand delivers a smooth, creamy texture and just the right amount of tang.

4. Ingredient Substitutions: Adjust for Your Needs

Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply working with what you have on hand, substitutions are a great way to make this recipe more flexible. Here are some suggestions:

Gluten-Free Alternative

Swap the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix for a gluten-free cornbread mix. Bob’s Red Mill and Krusteaz both offer excellent options that deliver similar results.

Dairy-Free Version

Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy sour cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew-based sour cream. These swaps still maintain the dish’s creamy consistency and rich flavor.

Lighter Option

To reduce the calorie count, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. Not only is it lighter, but it also adds a subtle tang that works well in this recipe.

Fresh Corn Swap

If you have fresh corn on hand, use it instead of canned. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and lightly sauté them to enhance their sweetness before adding them to the mix.

5. Why These Ingredients Work Together

The combination of these ingredients creates a dish that’s sweet, savory, creamy, and satisfying all at once. The Jiffy mix provides a fluffy, cornbread-like texture, while the canned corn and creamed corn add natural sweetness. Meanwhile, the sour cream and butter ensure the casserole remains moist and rich. Every ingredient has a role to play, making this dish as close to perfection as it gets.

For an added twist, consider incorporating healthier alternatives like egg white noodles into your menu.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole

1. Essential Ingredients: The Core of the Recipe

To begin with, the foundation of any great casserole lies in its ingredients. For this dish, every item contributes something special, ensuring a perfectly balanced blend of flavors and textures.

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix

Quantity: 1 box (8.5 oz).
Purpose: This corn muffin mix provides the base for the casserole, creating a fluffy texture with a touch of sweetness. Additionally, it simplifies the process, saving you time in the kitchen.
Tip: To achieve the authentic Cracker Barrel taste, stick with Jiffy. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, other cornbread mixes can work in a pinch.

Canned Whole Kernel Corn

Quantity: 1 can (15 oz), drained.
Purpose: Whole kernel corn adds texture to the dish, offering little pops of sweetness in every bite. Moreover, its natural flavor contrasts beautifully with the creamier elements of the casserole.
Tip: Always drain the corn thoroughly. Otherwise, excess liquid can make the casserole too watery.

Canned Creamed Corn

Quantity: 1 can (15 oz).
Purpose: Creamed corn brings richness and moisture to the casserole, binding all the ingredients together. Furthermore, it enhances the sweet, savory profile that makes this dish so irresistible.
Tip: If you don’t have creamed corn, you can easily substitute it by blending regular corn with a small amount of milk.

Butter

Quantity: ½ cup, melted.
Purpose: Butter adds a luxurious richness to the dish, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Not only that, but it also helps to balance the sweetness of the corn.
Tip: If you’re using salted butter, consider reducing any additional salt in the recipe.

Sour Cream

Quantity: 1 cup.
Purpose: Sour cream is the secret to the casserole’s creamy texture and tangy flavor. It balances out the sweetness of the corn, making the dish more complex and satisfying.
Tip: If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works as a great alternative.

2. Optional Ingredients: Customize Your Casserole

Cheddar Cheese

Quantity: 1 cup, shredded.
Purpose: Cheese lovers will adore the gooey, savory twist that cheddar adds to the dish. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the corn.
How to Use: Simply mix it into the batter for a creamy interior or sprinkle it on top before baking for a golden crust.

Diced Jalapeños

Quantity: 1-2 tablespoons, finely chopped.
Purpose: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapeños offer a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the casserole’s creamy base. Additionally, they add a pop of color to the dish.
Tip: If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.

Crumbled Bacon

Quantity: ¼ cup.
Purpose: Bacon introduces a smoky, savory element that complements the sweetness of the corn. Moreover, its crispy texture adds an extra layer of appeal to the dish.
Tip: Sprinkle the bacon on top for a crunchy finish or mix it into the batter for even distribution.

3. Recommended Brands: For Authentic Flavor

Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: Known for its consistent quality, this is the go-to choice for an authentic casserole.
Green Giant or Del Monte Corn: Both brands offer canned corn with great flavor and texture.
Daisy Sour Cream: This brand delivers a smooth, creamy texture and just the right amount of tang.

4. Ingredient Substitutions: Adjust for Your Needs

Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply working with what you have on hand, substitutions are a great way to make this recipe more flexible. Here are some suggestions:

Gluten-Free Alternative

Swap the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix for a gluten-free cornbread mix. Bob’s Red Mill and Krusteaz both offer excellent options that deliver similar results.

Dairy-Free Version

Replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy sour cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew-based sour cream. These swaps still maintain the dish’s creamy consistency and rich flavor.

Lighter Option

To reduce the calorie count, substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. Not only is it lighter, but it also adds a subtle tang that works well in this recipe.

Fresh Corn Swap

If you have fresh corn on hand, use it instead of canned. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and lightly sauté them to enhance their sweetness before adding them to the mix.

5. Why These Ingredients Work Together

Secrets to Perfecting the Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole

While the basic recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there are several tips and tricks you can use to take your Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole to the next level. From achieving the ideal texture to adding extra flavor, these expert secrets will ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

1. Master the Texture: Balancing Moisture and Fluffiness

Achieving the perfect balance between moist and fluffy is the hallmark of a great corn casserole. Here’s how you can master it:

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix with the wet ingredients can result in a denser casserole. Instead, stir gently until the ingredients are just combined. Small lumps are perfectly fine—they’ll disappear during baking.

Drain the Whole Kernel Corn Thoroughly

Excess liquid from the canned corn can lead to a soggy casserole. Be sure to drain it completely before adding it to the batter. If you’re using fresh or frozen corn, pat the kernels dry with a paper towel for best results.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Allowing the sour cream, butter, and eggs (if included in a variation) to come to room temperature helps them blend more evenly. This results in a smoother batter and more consistent texture.

2. Enhance the Flavor: Tips for an Unforgettable Taste

While the original recipe is simple and satisfying, a few tweaks can enhance its flavor profile.

Add a Pinch of Seasoning

A small amount of salt and black pepper can elevate the dish, balancing the sweetness of the corn and creamed corn. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder for a subtle savory kick.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs

For a more sophisticated flavor, mix in freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or chives. These herbs add brightness and complement the richness of the casserole.

Boost the Creaminess

If you prefer an extra creamy casserole, try adding ¼ cup of heavy cream or a small dollop of cream cheese to the batter. This adjustment works especially well for those who enjoy a more indulgent dish.

3. Experiment with Cooking Methods

Although baking is the traditional method, there are other ways to cook your corn casserole. These alternatives can be handy when your oven is already in use or when you’re looking for a slightly different texture.

Slow Cooker Method

Grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter.
Pour the prepared batter into the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours, until the edges are golden and the center is set.

The slow cooker method produces a softer casserole with a pudding-like consistency.

Air Fryer Method

Use a small, oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer.
Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (160°C).
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

This method creates a slightly crispier crust compared to traditional baking.

4. Customize the Recipe: Creative Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. With a few simple changes, you can customize the casserole to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Cheesy Corn Casserole

Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese into the batter.
Sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking for a golden, bubbly crust.

Spicy Jalapeño Corn Casserole

Add 2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños or green chilies to the mix for a spicy kick.
For even more heat, include a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Vegetable-Packed Corn Casserole

Fold in ½ cup of finely diced bell peppers, green onions, or sautéed mushrooms.
This version adds texture and nutrients without compromising the dish’s flavor.

Gluten-Free or Vegan Alternatives

Use a gluten-free cornbread mix to make the dish gluten-free.
For a vegan version, substitute the sour cream with plant-based yogurt and the butter with margarine or coconut oil.

5. Avoid Common Mistakes

Even experienced cooks can run into trouble with this seemingly simple dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Baking Too Long

Overbaking can lead to a dry, crumbly casserole. Always check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time range.

Forgetting to Grease the Pan

Skipping this step can cause the casserole to stick to the dish, making it difficult to serve. Be generous with butter or cooking spray to avoid this issue.

Using the Wrong Dish Size

A larger dish results in a thinner casserole, while a smaller one makes it thicker. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure even cooking.

6. Pro Tips for Presentation

While taste is king, presentation can make your casserole even more appealing:

Serve Warm: Corn casserole is best enjoyed warm, so serve it straight from the oven or after a brief reheating.

Add a Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs, grated cheese, or crispy bacon bits over the casserole before serving.

Use Individual Ramekins: For a dinner party, bake the casserole in individual ramekins to create elegant, single-serving portions.

This dish pairs exceptionally well with hearty sides like ground beef and mashed potatoes.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole

Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole is a versatile dish that complements a wide variety of main courses and side dishes. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, pairing it with the right foods can elevate the entire meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your menu.

1. Perfect Main Dishes to Pair With Corn Casserole

The sweet and savory flavors of corn casserole work beautifully with hearty proteins and comforting entrees. Here are some classic options:

A. Roasted or Grilled Chicken

Juicy, flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of corn casserole.
Options like herb-roasted chicken or BBQ chicken thighs bring complementary savory and smoky notes.

B. Honey-Glazed Ham

The sweetness of honey-glazed ham mirrors the sweetness in the casserole, creating a harmonious balance.
This pairing is particularly popular during the holiday season.

C. Barbecue Dishes

Pulled pork, smoked brisket, or BBQ ribs are excellent choices. The smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue sauces contrast beautifully with the creamy texture of the casserole.

D. Fried Catfish or Salmon

For a Southern-inspired meal, pair the casserole with fried catfish or baked salmon. The crispiness of the fish complements the softness of the casserole.
Add a squeeze of lemon for a fresh, tangy touch.

E. Meatloaf or Pork Chops

Classic comfort foods like meatloaf and pan-seared pork chops make perfect partners for this dish. Their savory depth enhances the casserole’s mild sweetness.

2. Ideal Side Dishes to Complement Corn Casserole

Although corn casserole is often served as a side, it can also share the table with other sides for a well-rounded meal.

A. Green Vegetables

To balance the richness of the casserole, consider adding a fresh green vegetable:

Sautéed Green Beans with garlic and lemon.
Steamed Broccoli drizzled with cheese sauce.
Collard Greens cooked with a bit of bacon for a smoky twist.

B. Fresh Salads

Light and refreshing salads offer a nice contrast:

A Crisp Garden Salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
A Kale and Cranberry Salad adds a sweet, tart note that complements the corn.

C. Potatoes

For a hearty meal, pair the casserole with another starchy side:

Mashed Potatoes or Garlic Roasted Potatoes for extra indulgence.
Sweet Potato Fries to enhance the sweetness in the casserole.

D. Bread and Rolls

Soft, fluffy bread makes an excellent companion to the creamy casserole:

Buttermilk Biscuits or Cornbread Muffins are Southern staples that pair beautifully.
Garlic Knots or Dinner Rolls add a savory touch.

3. Beverage Pairings

The right drink can round out your meal and enhance the flavors of the corn casserole. Here are some ideas:

A. Sweet Tea or Lemonade

Classic Southern beverages like sweet tea or lemonade are refreshing and complement the casserole’s flavors without overpowering them.

B. White Wine

Light, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay balance the casserole’s richness.

C. Craft Beer

A hoppy IPA or a light lager pairs well with the savory notes of barbecue dishes served alongside the casserole.

4. Serving Tips for Different Occasions

Corn casserole’s versatility makes it suitable for any meal. Here’s how to serve it for specific events:

A. Casual Weeknight Dinner

Keep it simple by pairing the casserole with roasted chicken and a side of steamed broccoli.
Serve directly from the baking dish for an easy, family-style presentation.

B. Potlucks and Gatherings

Prepare the casserole in a disposable aluminum pan for easy transport.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a finished look before serving.

C. Holiday Feasts

Pair the casserole with honey-glazed ham, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole for a classic holiday spread.
Consider doubling the recipe if serving a crowd—it’s always a favorite!

5. Portion and Serving Size Recommendations

Knowing how much to serve can help avoid leftovers or running out of food. Here are some guidelines:

Individual Servings: Use ramekins for individual portions, which are great for parties or plated dinners.

For a Small Family Dinner: A single recipe (serving 6-8) is perfect.

For Larger Gatherings: Double the recipe to serve 12-16. Prepare in a larger pan or divide the batter between two smaller dishes.

FAQs About Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe

To ensure your Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. From storage tips to recipe adjustments, these insights will help you master this dish.

1. How Do I Store Leftovers?

If you have leftover casserole, you can easily store it for future enjoyment.

Refrigeration: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

2. Can I Freeze Corn Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Freezing Instructions: Allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Reheating: To serve, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 20-25 minutes.

3. Can I Make It Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Corn casserole is a fantastic make-ahead dish.

Preparing in Advance: Assemble the casserole as directed but don’t bake it yet. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pre-Baked Option: You can also bake the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it in the oven before serving.

4. What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Creamed Corn?

If you don’t have creamed corn on hand, you can make a quick substitute.

Homemade Substitute: Blend 1 cup of canned whole kernel corn with ½ cup of milk or heavy cream. Use this mixture in place of the canned creamed corn in the recipe.
Alternative Option: You can also use a combination of canned corn and a tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening.

5. Can I Double the Recipe for a Crowd?

Yes! This recipe doubles easily, making it ideal for large gatherings.

How to Double: Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a larger 9×13-inch or 11×15-inch dish. Ensure the batter is spread evenly to allow for consistent baking.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time—it may need an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure the center is fully set.

6. Can I Make It Without Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix?

If you can’t find Jiffy or prefer a homemade alternative, you can make your own corn muffin mix.

Homemade Corn Muffin Mix Recipe:

Combine the following ingredients:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornmeal
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt

Mix these dry ingredients and use them in place of the Jiffy mix in the recipe.

7. How Do I Know When the Casserole is Done?

The casserole is ready when it’s golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy, while the center remains moist and creamy.

Visual Cues: Look for a lightly golden, puffed-up top.
Testing for Doneness: Avoid overbaking, as this can result in a dry texture.

8. Can I Add Eggs to the Recipe?

Yes, adding eggs is a common variation that creates a slightly firmer texture.

How to Add Eggs: Beat 2 large eggs and mix them into the batter along with the wet ingredients. This addition is especially useful if you prefer a more structured casserole, similar to a corn pudding.

9. Is Corn Casserole Gluten-Free?

The standard recipe using Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix is not gluten-free, as Jiffy contains wheat flour. However, you can make a gluten-free version:

Substitution: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix or make your own mix using gluten-free flour and cornmeal.
Check Labels: Ensure all other ingredients, like canned corn and creamed corn, are labeled gluten-free.

10. Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Canned Corn?

Yes, fresh corn works wonderfully in this recipe and adds a natural sweetness.

Frozen Corn Option: Thaw frozen corn and drain any excess liquid before using it as a substitute for canned corn.

How to Prepare Fresh Corn: Cut the kernels off 2-3 ears of corn. If desired, sauté them in a bit of butter before mixing them into the batter.

Conclusion

The Cracker Barrel Corn Casserole Recipe is a timeless dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its creamy texture, sweet and savory notes, and versatility make it a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday feasts alike. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can recreate this restaurant classic in your own kitchen.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you’re adding cheese for extra indulgence, jalapeños for a spicy twist, or substituting ingredients to fit dietary needs, this recipe adapts effortlessly. Pair it with roasted meats, fresh salads, or even a holiday ham for a meal that’s guaranteed to impress.

From the secrets to perfecting the texture to creative variations and storage tips, this guide has covered every detail you need to make the ultimate corn casserole. So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Your family and friends will thank you!