If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious side dish, Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn might be just what you need. This famous dish combines sweet corn with creamy ingredients to create a unique, rich flavor. It can be paired with almost any main course. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or attending a potluck, this creamed corn is sure to be a hit.
Imagine a plate of warm, cheesy corn casserole coming out of the oven. The blend of sweet and savory is pure comfort food. Inspired by Southern flavors, the Cracker Barrel version includes a perfect mix of ingredients that create a delightful, home-cooked taste for everyone to enjoy.
You might remember tasting this dish on a visit to Cracker Barrel, where it accompanies their hearty meals. The secret to its appeal lies in the creamy texture and slight sweetness that make each bite a pleasure. Trying to replicate that same taste in your kitchen is simple, offering you the chance to bring a piece of that Southern charm into your home.
What Makes This Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe Special?
This Cracker Barrel creamed corn recipe is popular for its creamy texture. The combination of cream-style corn with fresh corn kernels creates a dish that melts in your mouth. The smooth mixture is perfect if you’re looking for a comforting side dish.
The sweet flavor of this dish is another highlight. By carefully balancing the natural sweetness of the corn with other ingredients, it becomes a beloved comfort food.
For those who enjoy a cheesy flavor, adding a touch of cheddar cheese can enhance the dish. The cheese blends well with the creaminess, making it a hearty option.
You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for family gatherings or holidays. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal.
Consider sprinkling crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before serving. This simple step adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
While not exactly the same, this dish shares some similarities with a Jiffy corn casserole. Both have elements of creamy corn, but this recipe stands out with its attention to creamy consistency and sweet taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe
To make delicious Cracker Barrel creamed corn, gather all the ingredients beforehand. This helps streamline the cooking process.
Corn
- 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- Alternatively, use fresh or frozen corn kernels
Dairy Products
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream for extra richness
Cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist
Spices and Seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper for flavor
- Optional: paprika for a bit of heat
Other Ingredients
- 1 box corn muffin mix to add texture
- 1-2 large eggs to bind everything together
- Chopped onion for added taste
- Sugar to enhance the corn’s natural sweetness
Having these ingredients ready will make preparing your creamed corn much easier.
Step-by-Step Guide To Making Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe
Start by gathering your ingredients: 4 cups of corn kernels, 2 cups of heavy cream, 4 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn. If using canned corn, make sure it’s drained well.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures everything is ready to go when the dish needs to bake.
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and stir to mix. Cook for about 2 minutes to create a smooth paste, which will help thicken the cream mixture.
Gradually add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring constantly. Ensure the mix is smooth without lumps. Once smooth, add sugar and continue to stir.
Next, add the corn kernels to the skillet. Stir them into the creamy mixture until evenly coated. Let them cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding your preferred amount.
If you like, you can blend a portion of the corn in a food processor for a smoother consistency. This step is optional and depends on your texture preference.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle some crumbled corn muffin mix on top for extra crunch before placing it in the oven.
Bake until the top is golden brown, typically for 20-25 minutes.
Tips For The Perfect Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe
To make your creamed corn extra creamy, use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of regular milk. This adds richness and depth.
Season the corn well with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. A sprinkle of sugar can highlight the corn’s natural sweetness.
Consider adding a tablespoon of butter while cooking. It gives the corn a smooth and buttery taste.
Use fresh or canned corn, but always drain canned corn well to avoid extra water in the dish. Fresh corn gives a crisp texture.
For added richness, mix in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream. This enhances the creaminess and offers a delicious tang.
Keep an eye on nutrients. Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion.
If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or try smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure the corn cools completely before refrigeration to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.
Try experimenting with herbs like thyme or basil. These add freshness and complement the sweet corn flavors well.
How To Customize Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe For Different Diets
To make Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn suitable for various diets, consider making some simple changes.
For vegetarians, you can use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. This keeps the dish creamy without using dairy.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, ensure any ingredients like crushed crackers used for topping are certified gluten-free.
For those who prefer a spicier twist, adding jalapeños can bring a bit of heat to your creamed corn. Simply chop them finely and mix them in before serving.
To reduce fat content, substitute full-fat ingredients with lighter versions. Choose low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe. This makes the dish lighter but still flavorful.
Vegans can also enjoy this recipe by swapping butter for a vegan alternative and using coconut milk instead of regular milk. Be sure to check all other ingredients for animal-derived components.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed crackers over the top before serving. To make it healthier, consider using whole-grain crackers or reducing the amount if needed.
By adjusting a few ingredients, you can customize Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe Storage And Meal Prep Tips
To store leftover Cracker Barrel creamed corn, first let it cool completely. This prevents moisture build-up. Place the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best used within four days to keep its taste and texture.
Freezing the creamed corn is also an option. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. Label it with the date and freeze. For best quality, use within two months.
When it’s time to reheat, thaw frozen corn overnight in the fridge. You can heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave, covered, for a few minutes.
For meal prep, consider doubling the recipe. This way, you can enjoy some now and have portions ready for later. Batch cooking saves time and effort, making midweek meals easier.
Pair the creamed corn with proteins like roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. It also works well with salads or as a filling for tacos.
By preparing ahead, you ensure that your favorite Cracker Barrel dish is ready whenever you need a quick, comforting side.
Pairing Ideas For Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn Recipe
Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn is delicious and works well with a variety of dishes. You can create a wonderful meal with some simple pairings.
Classic Southern Fried Chicken is a great option. The crispy, juicy chicken balances the creamy texture of the corn.
Buttermilk Biscuits add a warm, flaky touch. They are perfect to enjoy alongside the creamed corn.
Consider serving with roasted turkey for a comforting family meal. The corn pairs nicely with the savory flavors of turkey.
Barbecue ribs offer a tangy and smoky contrast. This combination brings out the sweet notes in the creamed corn.
Green bean casserole is another excellent choice. Its creamy sauce and crunchy topping are complementary to the corn dish.
A light garden salad can refresh your palate. The freshness of the greens offsets the richness of the creamed corn.
Roasted vegetables like carrots or potatoes can add color and texture to your plate.
For a special holiday feast, use Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn as a side dish. It fits well with various holiday spreads.
Cracker Barrel Creamed Corn
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 can 14.75 oz cream-style corn
- 1 can 15.25 oz whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- 1 box corn muffin mix
- 1-2 large eggs
- 1 chopped onion optional
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir to form a paste. Slowly whisk in cream, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Mix in cream-style corn, whole kernel corn, sugar, and seasonings. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish. For a crunchier topping, sprinkle corn muffin mix on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 180mg
