Every holiday season, there is one side dish that always disappears from the table first. It isn’t the stuffing or the mashed potatoes, but this incredible honey glazed corn casserole.
The combination of sweet corn and a buttery, savory batter creates a comfort food masterpiece. It reminds me of the cozy family dinners where we would pass plates around and fight over the last golden scoop.
If you enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of corn, you might also love a warming bowl of Mexican street corn soup during the colder months. However, when you need something that feels like a cross between a side dish and a dessert, this casserole is the answer.
This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into something truly spectacular with just a few minutes of preparation. The sticky honey butter topping adds a beautiful shine and an extra layer of sweetness that makes every bite memorable.
Why you’ll love this honey glazed corn casserole
- It offers the perfect balance of textures with a moist, pudding-like center and a slightly crisp, golden edge.
- This honey glazed corn casserole is incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl for mixing before it goes into the oven.
- The sweet and savory flavor profile pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from roast chicken to holiday turkey.
- You can easily customize the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of honey in the glaze to suit your preference.
- It is a vegetarian-friendly crowd-pleaser that satisfies both children and adults alike at large gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey, divided (2 tbsp for batter, 2 tbsp for glaze)
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (14.75 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (check the label to ensure it is vegetarian/vegetable oil-free)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for the glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional garnish)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Honey glazed corn casserole makes every moment feel uplifting. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready when your batter is mixed. Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick spray or a little extra butter.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of melted butter with the beaten eggs and sour cream. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform.
Step 3
Add 2 tablespoons of the honey to the wet mixture and whisk again to incorporate. This initial addition of honey infuses the batter with a subtle sweetness from the inside out.
Step 4
Stir in the drained whole kernel corn and the undrained can of cream-style corn. Mix well so that the corn kernels are evenly distributed throughout the wet base.
Step 5
Gently fold in the box of vegetarian corn muffin mix using a spatula. Stir only until the dry ingredients are just moistened and no large streaks of flour remain.
Step 6
Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as working the batter too much can lead to a tough texture. The batter should look thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfectly normal.
Step 7
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Use your spatula to smooth the top into an even layer, ensuring it reaches all the corners of the dish.
Step 8
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You are looking for the top to turn a beautiful golden brown color.
Step 9
Check the center of the casserole to ensure it is set. It should be firm to the touch and should not jiggle excessively when you gently shake the dish.
Step 10
While the casserole is in its final minutes of baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey with the 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
Step 11
Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately brush the honey butter glaze over the hot surface. The heat will help the glaze melt into the crust.
Step 12
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme leaves if you are using them. Let the dish cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the texture to firm up for easier scooping.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
You can easily add a spicy kick to this honey glazed corn casserole by incorporating diced jalapeños. Simply fold about a quarter cup of seeded, diced peppers into the batter before baking. The heat from the peppers cuts through the sweetness of the honey perfectly.
For a cheesier version, try mixing in a cup of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese. The cheese melts into the corn mixture, creating gooey pockets of savory flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese on top during the last ten minutes of baking.
If you prefer a more herbaceous profile, consider adding dried herbs to the batter. A teaspoon of dried rosemary or chives works wonderfully with the corn flavor. This turns the dish into a more savory accompaniment suitable for elegant dinners.
Another delicious twist is to brown the butter before adding it to the batter. Brown butter adds a nutty, toasted aroma that deepens the flavor profile. It pairs exceptionally well with the honey glaze on top.
Pairings
This casserole is the ultimate side dish for a traditional roasted turkey dinner. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory herbs usually found in turkey seasoning. It acts as a great alternative to traditional stuffing or bread rolls.
It also pairs beautifully with barbecue dishes, such as grilled chicken or beef ribs. The honey glaze mirrors the sweetness often found in barbecue sauces. This creates a cohesive flavor theme across your entire meal.
For a vegetarian meal, serve this alongside a hearty three-bean chili or a spicy vegetable stew. The creamy texture of the corn pudding balances the acidity and spice of tomato-based dishes. It serves as a cooling counterpoint to hotter foods.
You can even serve this alongside a simple pan-seared steak or lamb chops. The richness of the red meat stands up well to the dense, buttery texture of the casserole. It brings a touch of home-style comfort to a steakhouse-style dinner.
Serving ideas
For a rustic presentation, bake and serve the casserole directly in a cast-iron skillet. The cast iron helps create a delicious crust on the bottom and sides. It also keeps the dish warm for much longer while on the dinner table.
If you are hosting a dinner party, consider baking individual portions in ramekins. This allows everyone to have their own personal honey glazed corn casserole. You will need to reduce the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them.
Garnish is key to making this simple dish look elegant. A dusting of flaky sea salt contrasts beautifully with the shiny glaze. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add a pop of green color that makes the golden crust look vibrant.
Serve the casserole warm, directly from the baking dish, with a large serving spoon. Place a small bowl of extra honey butter on the side for guests who have a sweet tooth. This allows everyone to customize the richness of their portion.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This prevents the corn pudding from drying out in the refrigerator.
Stored properly, the leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often meld together even better the next day. It makes for a delicious quick lunch or side dish for subsequent dinners.
To reheat, you can place a slice in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm. Alternatively, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes. This helps revive the texture of the crust.
Freezing is possible, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Make-ahead
You can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately up to a day in advance. Keep the wet mixture in the fridge and the dry mix in a sealed bag on the counter. Combine them just before you are ready to bake.
If you prefer to assemble the entire dish beforehand, you can mix the batter and pour it into the baking dish. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since the batter will be cold.
The honey butter glaze is best made fresh while the casserole is baking. However, you can measure out the honey and butter in a small bowl ahead of time. This saves you a few minutes of measuring during the busy cooking process.
This dish travels well, making it ideal for potlucks or holiday parties. Bake it at home and cover it with foil to keep it warm during transport. You can bring the glaze in a separate jar and brush it on right before serving.
Common mistakes when making Honey Glazed Corn Casserole
- Overmixing the batter is the most common error, which leads to a dense and rubbery texture instead of a fluffy one.
- Forgetting to drain the whole kernel corn can add too much liquid to the batter, preventing the center from setting properly.
- Using a Jiffy mix that contains vegetable oil creates a dish that is not vegetarian-friendly, so always check the label for vegetable shortening or oil-based mixes.
- Overbaking the casserole dries it out, so be sure to pull it from the oven as soon as the center is set and the top is golden.
- Skipping the cooling period can result in a messy service, as the casserole needs time to firm up and hold its shape.
Final notes
This honey glazed corn casserole is more than just a side dish; it is a highlight of any meal. The combination of creamy corn and sweet honey butter feels like a warm hug on a plate. It is simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for a celebration.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the toppings or mix-ins to make this recipe your own. Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or extra sweet, the base recipe is incredibly forgiving. It is a canvas for your favorite flavors.
I hope this dish brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a true comfort food classic. Your family will be asking for seconds before you even sit down.
Loved this Honey Glazed Corn Casserole? Try these next
- Mexican street corn soup
- Lemon glazed shortbread cookies
- Scotcharoo popcorn recipe
- Key West grilled chicken
- Butterscotch pie recipe
Honey Glazed Corn Casserole
A golden, bubbling balance of sweet and savory flavors, this comfort food classic features a moist, pudding-like center and a sticky honey butter topping. It is the perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup honey, divided (2 tbsp for batter, 2 tbsp for glaze)
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (14.75 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (ensure vegetarian/vegetable oil-free)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for the glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional garnish)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick spray or a little butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup melted butter, beaten eggs, sour cream, and 2 tablespoons of the honey until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the drained whole kernel corn and the undrained cream-style corn until evenly distributed.
- Gently fold in the box of corn muffin mix. Stir only until the dry ingredients are just moistened; do not overmix, or the texture may become tough.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (it should not jiggle excessively).
- While the casserole is baking, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey with the 1 tablespoon of melted butter in a small bowl to create the glaze.
- Remove the casserole from the oven. While still hot, brush the honey butter glaze over the top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh thyme if desired. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up.
Notes
Ensure you use a vegetarian corn muffin mix to keep this halal and vegetarian-friendly, as traditional mixes often contain vegetable oil. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the batter before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg