Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn Recipe: A Family Favorite

Scalloped corn is a traditional side dish that has graced American tables for generations, often associated with holiday meals and family gatherings. This delightful casserole has a rich history, with recipes appearing in cookbooks dating back to the 19th century. One particularly beloved version is Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn, which has become a family favorite due to its comforting texture and flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what makes Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn recipe special, walk through the steps to make it, and offer tips for perfecting this classic dish.

Why Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn Stands Out

Betty Crocker's approach to scalloped corn emphasizes simplicity without compromising on taste or texture. Here's what makes this recipe a standout:

• Simplicity: With a handful of basic ingredients, this dish can be whipped up even by kitchen novices.
• Versatility: It can be served as a side dish or even a vegetarian main course for lighter meals.
• Comfort Food Appeal: The creamy texture combined with the crispiness of the topping gives it a comforting appeal.
• Rich Flavors: Using traditional flavors like butter, milk, and eggs, the dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked comfort food.

Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn Recipe

Here's how you can recreate this delicious dish in your kitchen:

Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can of cream-style corn
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup saltine crackers, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for a cheesy twist)
• Saltine crackers or bread crumbs for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream-style corn, milk, eggs, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Prepare the Dish: Lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish or a casserole dish. Pour in the corn mixture.
4. Add the Topping:
   • If you're using cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the corn mixture.
   • Next, evenly distribute the crushed saltine crackers or bread crumbs over the dish. You can add a bit of melted butter to the topping for extra crispiness.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set but still has a slight jiggle in the middle.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

🔄 Note: This recipe can be doubled or halved based on your serving needs, and you can adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Tips for Perfecting Scalloped Corn

To ensure your scalloped corn turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Even Texture: Mix the ingredients until just combined; over-mixing can make the dish dense.
• Customize Your Topping: Feel free to add herbs like parsley or chives to the topping for an aromatic touch, or mix in some breadcrumbs for varied textures.
• Milk Variations: If you're looking for a richer dish, try using cream or half-and-half instead of regular milk.
• Egg Substitution: For an egg-free version, you can use a bit more cream or milk to thicken the mixture.
• Cheese Lovers: Introduce different cheeses like Swiss or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake just before serving. The texture might be slightly different, but it's a time-saver.

⚠️ Note: Always check the casserole's doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center. It should come out clean with no runny liquid.

Variations to Explore

Here are some variations to spice up Betty Crocker's classic scalloped corn recipe:

• Southern Scalloped Corn: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick, or incorporate a can of green chilies for a subtle spice.
• Holiday Twist: Include some bacon bits, leeks, or chives for a festive touch.
• Mexican-Inspired: Mix in corn kernels, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning; top with crushed tortilla chips instead of crackers.
• Smoked Cheese: Use smoked gouda or cheddar for a deep, smoky flavor.

Serving and Pairing

Scalloped corn is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings:

• Main Courses: It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like ham, turkey, or chicken, as well as grilled steak or fish.
• Vegetarian Meals: Serve it alongside a vegetarian protein like tofu or a lentil loaf for a satisfying meal.
• As a Standalone Dish: Add a salad or some vegetables, and it can stand alone as a light dinner.
• Sauces: A light drizzle of herb-infused oil or a cream sauce can elevate the dish further.

Remember, scalloped corn is also delightful when served alongside other traditional side dishes, creating a harmonious and balanced meal.

Betty Crocker's Scalloped Corn recipe is a testament to the joy of simple, yet delicious home cooking. Its warmth, flavors, and the ability to customize make it an enduring dish in American cuisine. Whether you're revisiting this classic or trying it for the first time, it promises a slice of comfort that will remind you of the importance of gathering around a shared meal. It's not just food; it's a piece of tradition, nostalgia, and the love that goes into making meals for those we care about.

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned cream-style corn?

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Absolutely, you can substitute with fresh or frozen corn. Just puree some of the kernels to get a creamier texture.

What can I do if I don’t have saltine crackers for the topping?

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You can use bread crumbs, crushed potato chips, or even corn flakes for a different crunch.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

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Yes, just use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.