Stalekracker Corn Casserole Recipe

If you’ve been scrolling through social media and stumbled upon Stalekracker’s wildly popular corn casserole, you’re in for a treat!

This copycat stalekracker corn casserole recipe brings together the creamy richness of sour cream, the sweetness of cream corn, and the bold flavors of garlic and hot sauce in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, holiday gathering, or simply craving some serious Southern comfort food, this corn casserole Stalekracker recipe delivers every single time.

What makes this version so special is its freestyle, “dump and mix” approach that lets the ingredients shine without fussy measurements. Let’s dive into recreating this viral sensation in your own kitchen!

What Does Stalekracker Corn Casserole Taste Like?

This creamed corn casserole recipe is pure comfort in every spoonful. Imagine a velvety, custard-like texture with bursts of sweet corn kernels throughout.

The sour cream adds incredible tanginess that balances the natural sweetness of the cream corn, while the sautéed garlic and onions provide a savory depth that keeps you coming back for more. There’s a subtle kick from the hot sauce that doesn’t overpower but adds just enough heat to wake up your taste buds.

The cheese melts into gooey pockets of richness, and the cornmeal gives it a slightly rustic, hearty quality. It’s creamy, savory, slightly sweet, and absolutely addictive think somewhere between cornbread stuffing and the best corn casserole recipe you’ve ever tasted.

Stalekracker Corn Casserole Recipe Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• ½–1 stick butter (about 4-8 tablespoons)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornmeal
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1-2 teaspoons Louisiana-style hot sauce (or gourmet hot sauce of choice)
• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
• 1-1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Kitchen Utensils

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar casserole dish)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings

Stalekracker Corn Casserole Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter (about 2 tablespoons), then add a little more butter and let it melt down completely until you have about ½ stick melted.

Step 3

Add the diced onion to the melted butter and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 4

Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Turn off the heat and let this butter mixture cool down to almost room temperature (about 5-10 minutes).

Step 5

Once cooled, add the flour and cornmeal directly to the butter mixture in the skillet. Mix everything around very nicely until well combined and no dry pockets remain.

Step 6

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk and beaten eggs until fully incorporated.

Step 7

Pour the milk-egg mixture into the skillet with the butter, flour, and cornmeal. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a cohesive base.

Step 8

Add your gourmet hot sauce (do the “two-step” a couple good shakes or dashes) to season the mixture with a subtle kick.

Step 9

Add all of the sour cream and mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 10

Fold in the drained whole kernel corn, mixing to distribute evenly throughout.

Step 11

Add the entire can of cream-style corn and fold it in gently, combining everything into a thick, creamy casserole base.

Step 12

Fold in your shredded cheese, mixing just until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 13

Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 14

Bake in the preheated 350°F oven for about 1 hour, or until the casserole is set in the center, golden on top, and slightly puffed.

Step 15

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. The casserole will be “straight fire” and absolutely irresistible!

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Jalapeño Popper Corn Casserole

Transform this stale kracker corn casserole recipe into a spicy delight by adding 2-3 diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) and mixing in cream cheese along with the sour cream. Top with crumbled bacon and extra pepper jack cheese before baking for a flavor explosion.

2. BBQ Pairing Perfection

This cream corn casserole recipe is the ultimate sidekick to smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or grilled chicken. The creamy sweetness balances the smoky, savory flavors of barbecued meats beautifully. Serve it alongside coleslaw and cornbread for a complete Southern feast.

3. Mexican-Inspired Fiesta Bowl

Add a can of diced green chiles, substitute Mexican blend cheese, and stir in a teaspoon of cumin and chili powder. Serve this customized corn casserole recipe topped with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of guacamole for Taco Tuesday perfection.

4. Smoky Sausage Delight

Pair creamy corn casserole with smoky sausage for a savory Southern-inspired plate. The bold flavors of Cajun sausage balance the sweet corn, creating a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

5 . Thanksgiving Table Star

Make this a holiday showstopper by folding in ½ cup of dried cranberries and using sharp white cheddar. The sweet-tart cranberries complement the traditional turkey, stuffing, and gravy while offering something unique your guests won’t find at every table.

6. Breakfast Casserole Twist

Turn this into a hearty brunch dish by adding cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage and diced bell peppers. Top with green onions after baking and serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing morning meal.

7. Fresh Green Harmony

Add green bean casserole alongside corn casserole to create a balanced, colorful meal. The crisp-tender vegetables and creamy corn complement each other, making this combination ideal for holiday dinners or casual Southern feasts.

8. Seafood Boil Companion

This best corn casserole recipe pairs wonderfully with Cajun-style seafood boils featuring shrimp, crawfish, and crab. The creamy corn complements the spicy boil seasoning and provides a comforting contrast to the seafood’s brininess.

9. Seafood Feast Pairing

Include crab boil with corn casserole for a Cajun seafood spread. The buttery crab and subtle spices enhance the corn’s sweetness, creating an authentic Louisiana-inspired meal perfect for festive gatherings.

10. Cracker Appetizer Presentation

Follow Stalekracker’s lead and serve this warm casserole on sturdy crackers like Ritz or Triscuits as an appetizer. It’s also fantastic with tortilla chips for a corn dip experience, or stuffed into mini phyllo cups for elegant party bites.

Essential Tips for Perfect Stalekracker Corn Casserole

1. Cool That Butter Mixture

The most crucial step in this stalekracker corn casserole recipe instructions is allowing the butter, onion, and garlic mixture to cool before adding the flour and cornmeal. If it’s too hot, the eggs you add later will scramble instead of creating that smooth, custard-like texture. Patience here makes all the difference between a silky casserole and a lumpy mess.

2. Don’t Skip the Cornmeal

 While many corn casserole recipe versions use only flour, the cornmeal in this version adds authentic corn flavor and a slightly heartier texture that prevents the casserole from becoming too loose or soupy. It also gives you that wonderful contrast between the creamy base and the rustic cornmeal bite that makes this recipe unique.

3. Cheese Selection Matters

The beauty of this how to make stalekracker corn casserole approach is flexibility with cheese. Sharp cheddar provides tang and boldness, Monterey Jack offers creaminess, pepper jack brings heat, or try a Mexican blend for complexity. Whatever you choose, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded it melts better and doesn’t contain anti-caking agents that can make your casserole grainy.

4. Adjust Consistency as Needed

This freestyle recipe means you control the thickness. If your mixture seems too thick after combining everything, add a splash more milk (2-3 tablespoons at a time). If it’s too loose, add an extra tablespoon of cornmeal or flour. The final mixture should be pourable but thick like a chunky, creamy batter rather than soup.

5. The Hot Sauce Balance

When following these stalekracker corn casserole ingredients, remember that the hot sauce isn’t meant to make the dish spicy it’s there to enhance and brighten all the other flavors. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste the raw mixture (it’s safe since you haven’t added the eggs yet at that point, or taste after), and adjust. Louisiana-style sauces like Crystal or Tabasco work perfectly without overwhelming the sweet corn flavor.

6. Test for Doneness Properly

After that hour at 350°F, your casserole should be golden on top and slightly puffed. Insert a knife or toothpick into the center it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. The center should jiggle very slightly but not be liquidy. If it’s still too wet, give it another 10-15 minutes and check again.

7. Let It Rest Before Serving

Resist the urge to dig in immediately! Letting this creamed corn casserole recipe rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven allows it to set up properly. The texture will firm up, making it easier to serve neat portions, and you won’t burn your mouth on molten corn lava. Plus, the flavors meld together even more beautifully during this resting period.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 325°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Common Queries and FAQs

Everything you need to know about Stalekracker Corn Casserole Recipe: common questions answered.

Can I make stalekracker corn casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the entire casserole mixture according to the instructions, pour it into your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

Greek yogurt works beautifully as a 1:1 substitute and provides the same tangy creaminess with added protein. Full-fat plain yogurt also works well. For a dairy-free version, try cashew cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different. Avoid using mayo as it can separate during baking and create an unpleasant texture.

Why is my corn casserole watery or soupy?

This usually happens when the corn isn’t drained properly or there’s too much liquid in the mixture. Always drain canned whole kernel corn thoroughly, and make sure you’re using cream-style corn (which is thicker) rather than additional whole corn. Also, ensure your eggs are well-beaten and incorporated, and that you’ve added enough flour and cornmeal to bind everything. If your mixture looks too thin before baking, stir in an extra 2 tablespoons of cornmeal.

Can I freeze stalekracker corn casserole?

Yes! This casserole freezes wonderfully either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked: prepare the mixture, place in a freezer-safe baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. To freeze baked casserole: let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat at 325°F for 30-40 minutes.

What type of cheese works best in this corn casserole recipe?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice that provides great flavor without being too mild. However, this recipe is incredibly versatile try Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, pepper jack for heat, Colby for sweetness, or a Mexican blend for complexity. Gruyère adds a sophisticated nutty flavor, while smoked gouda brings incredible depth. Use about 1-1½ cups of whatever cheese you prefer, and always shred it fresh for the best melting quality.

How do I know when the corn casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the edges are golden brown and slightly pulling away from the sides of the dish, the center is set but still has a very slight jiggle (it will continue to set as it cools), and a knife or toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just moist crumbs rather than wet batter. The top should be lightly golden and may puff up slightly. If you have an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 160-165°F.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?

Definitely! For fresh corn, you’ll need about 2-3 ears of corn to yield roughly 1½-2 cups of kernels. Cut the kernels off the cob and sauté them briefly in a little butter before adding to the casserole mixture. For the cream corn portion, you can blend half of your fresh corn kernels with a little milk and butter to create a creamy consistency, or simply use one can of cream corn and supplement with fresh kernels for the whole corn portion.

Is stalekracker corn casserole the same as Jiffy corn casserole?

No, they’re different! Jiffy corn casserole (also called “corn pudding” in some regions) typically uses a Jiffy corn muffin mix as the base along with creamed corn, sour cream, butter, and eggs. The Stalekracker version makes everything from scratch using flour, cornmeal, and a butter-based roux, which gives it a more homemade flavor and texture. The Stalekracker version also includes sautéed onions and garlic for added depth that you won’t find in the Jiffy version.

What’s the difference between corn casserole and corn pudding?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, corn pudding is typically smoother, more custard-like, and sweeter with a consistency similar to bread pudding. Corn casserole, especially this Stalekracker version, has a heartier texture with visible corn kernels throughout, more savory elements like cheese and hot sauce, and a firmer, more substantial consistency that can be cut into squares. Think of corn pudding as dessert-adjacent, while corn casserole is firmly a savory side dish.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, but with modifications! Sauté your butter, onions, and garlic as directed, then mix all ingredients in your slow cooker insert. Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1½-2 hours, stirring once halfway through. The texture will be creamier and less firm than the oven-baked version since it won’t develop that golden top crust, but it’s perfect for potlucks where you need to keep it warm. Consider broiling it for 2-3 minutes after cooking if you want some color on top.

Why does my corn casserole fall or sink in the middle?

A sunken center usually means the casserole was underbaked or the oven temperature was too high initially, causing the outside to set before the inside was done. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated to 350°F, avoid opening the oven door during the first 45 minutes of baking, and test for doneness with the knife test. Also, ensure your eggs are at room temperature and well-beaten before adding cold eggs can prevent proper rising and setting.

What can I serve with stalekracker corn casserole?

This versatile side dish pairs beautifully with smoked or grilled meats like ribs, pulled pork, brisket, fried chicken, or grilled sausages. It’s also perfect alongside Southern classics like collard greens, mac and cheese, potato salad, and coleslaw. For holiday meals, serve it with turkey, ham, green bean casserole, and mashed potatoes. The creamy, slightly sweet flavor complements both spicy and savory main dishes wonderfully.

This copycat stalekracker corn casserole recipe brings together everything we love about Southern comfort food creamy texture, bold flavors, and that irresistible homemade quality that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, bringing it to a potluck, or simply enjoying it as a weeknight side dish, this casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.

The beauty of this best corn casserole recipe lies in its flexibility and forgiving nature don’t stress about exact measurements, trust your instincts, and make it your own. Now get in that kitchen and create some “straight fire” magic!

You can also follow us on Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious updates and kitchen inspiration. Your feedback and support mean the world to us!