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Crispy Smoked Jalapeño Corn Casserole Easy Recipe with Crunchy Topping

crispy smoked jalapeño corn casserole - featured image

A creamy, smoky, and spicy corn casserole topped with a golden crunchy crust, perfect as a comforting side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 cup creamed corn
  • 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk for a lighter option)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 smoked jalapeños, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (butter crackers or Ritz)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or toasted breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the whole milk and melted butter, stirring to combine.
  3. Stir in the fresh or frozen corn kernels and creamed corn until well distributed.
  4. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped smoked jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. In a small bowl, combine crushed buttery crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Toss until crumbs are evenly coated. Fold in pecans or breadcrumbs if using.
  7. Sprinkle the crunchy topping evenly over the corn mixture, pressing lightly for good coverage.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy and the center is set.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

If fresh smoked jalapeños are unavailable, use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce as a substitute. For gluten-free, replace cracker topping with gluten-free crackers or nuts. Avoid overbaking to keep the casserole moist and topping crispy. Assemble ahead and refrigerate; add 5-10 minutes to baking time when baking from cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, smoked jalapeño, crunchy topping, comfort food, easy side dish, smoky, spicy, casserole