Description
This Easy Sweet Corn Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish featuring creamy plant-based cheese, smoky turkey bacon, and the natural sweetness of corn. Simple to prepare and packed with hearty flavors, it makes a perfect side or main dish for any occasion, delivering a rich and creamy texture with a delightful smoky flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or canned corn kernels, drained if canned
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup creamy plant-based cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons melted plant-based butter
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (for spicy variation)
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers or caramelized onions (for sweet and savory variation)
- Crushed plant-based crackers or panko for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Once cooled, chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky, savory flavor base to the casserole.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the unsweetened plant-based milk, melted plant-based butter, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), onion powder (natural), garlic powder (natural), and natural gelling agent. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Mix Corn and Cheese: Add the corn kernels and creamy plant-based cheese to the wet mixture. Gently fold with a spatula to evenly distribute the cheese while keeping the corn kernels intact and juicy.
- Add Smoked Turkey Bacon and Transfer: Fold in the chopped smoked turkey bacon, infusing the casserole mix with its smoky aroma. Pour the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake Until Golden and Set: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the casserole feels firm to the touch. Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow it to set properly.
Notes
- Use fresh corn when possible for a brighter, sweeter flavor compared to canned.
- Fold ingredients gently to avoid breaking the corn kernels and to maintain texture.
- Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent depending on the desired firmness of the casserole.
- Allow the casserole to cool briefly before serving to help it set perfectly.
- Add fresh herbs at the end or as a garnish to retain their vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: sweet corn casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food, side dish, gluten free, creamy casserole
