Scalloped Corn
White Cheddar cheese and buttery cracker crumbs top this classic side made from frozen sweet corn and creamy half-and-half.
Equipment
- 1 2-Quart Baking Dish Oval gratin dish recommended
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For combining wet and dry ingredients
- 1 Whisk For combining eggs and half-and-half
- 1 Small Dish Microwave-safe for melting butter
- 1 Spatula or Spoon For spreading mixture
Ingredients
Main
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Two 14-ounce packages frozen corn about 5 cups, thawed
- 1 1/2 cup coarsely crushed buttery crackers such as Ritz or Toll House
- 1 cup shredded white Cheddar about 2 ounces
- Kosher salt
Instructions
- Position a rack in the top third of the oven and preheat to 325 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart oval gratin or baking dish with 1 tablespoon of the butter.
- Whisk the eggs and half-and-half together in a large bowl. Add the sugar, corn, 1/2 cup of the crushed crackers, 1/2 cup of the Cheddar and 1 teaspoon salt. Pour the mixture into the baking dish, spreading with a spatula or spoon to make an even layer.
- Bake uncovered until the edges are set but the center is still wet, about 35 minutes. Meanwhile, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a small dish in the microwave, about 30 seconds. Mix the butter into the remaining 1 cup crushed crackers until evenly moistened. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar and the buttered crackers over the corn. Continue baking until the edges are brown and the top is set and golden, 20 to 25 minutes more. Remove from the oven and let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure corn is fully thawed and excess water drained to prevent a watery casserole. For a richer flavor, consider sauteeing a small amount of finely diced onion or shallot before adding to the mix. The initial bake sets the base custard, while the second bake adds texture and golden color to the topping. Don't overbake the first stage – the center should still be loose. Experiment with different cheese blends or add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce for complexity.