Shoepeg Casserole

Creamy, savory, and packed with sweet corn flavor, Shoepeg Corn Casserole is a beloved Southern side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners. Made with tender shoepeg corn, buttery crackers, and a rich, cheesy filling, this casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Savory – Shoepeg corn’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy base.
Comfort Food Classic – Rich, hearty, and full of flavor.
Perfect for Gatherings – Serves a crowd and holds up well on a buffet table.
Easy to Make – Simple prep with pantry staples and minimal fuss.
Customizable – Add veggies, seasonings, or a protein twist to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 2 cans (11 oz each) shoepeg corn, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies (optional for a mild kick)
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
• ½ cup chopped onion
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve (about 30) buttery round crackers, crushed (like Ritz)
• 3 tbsp melted butter

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Skillet (if sautéing vegetables)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
For extra flavor, sauté the chopped onions and green bell peppers in a small skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened (optional but recommended).

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained shoepeg corn, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar, sautéed (or raw) bell pepper and onion, green chilies (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the corn mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake It Up
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Shoepeg Corn Casserole
Sauté Veggies – Enhances the flavor and texture of the onions and peppers.
Use Real Cheddar – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Add Heat – A few dashes of hot sauce or diced jalapeños can spice things up.
Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Double for a Crowd – This recipe scales easily for larger gatherings.

Serving Suggestions
Holiday Side Dish – A staple at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter meals.
BBQ Companion – Pairs perfectly with grilled meats like chicken or ribs.
Potluck Favorite – Travels well and reheats beautifully.
Weeknight Comfort – Serve with roasted chicken or a green salad.
Southern Spread – Add to a plate of fried chicken, biscuits, and greens.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Air Fryer: Re-crisp the topping by air frying at 350°F for 4–5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is shoepeg corn?
Shoepeg corn is a variety of sweet white corn with small, tender kernels. It’s sweeter and more delicate than yellow corn.

2. Can I use frozen or fresh corn instead?
Yes, but it won’t have the same sweetness or texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain before using.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
It already is! Just make sure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly.

4. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce for similar texture.

5. Can I add meat to make it a main dish?
Yes! Add 1 to 1½ cups of cooked, shredded chicken or browned ground beef or turkey.

Final Thoughts
Shoepeg Corn Casserole is a comforting, classic side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its creamy center and buttery crunch on top, it’s easy to see why this Southern staple has stood the test of time.

Bake it for your next get-together or family dinner and watch it disappear fast. Don’t forget to share your twist in the comments below—whether you add spice, meat, or a new veggie, it’s a dish made to be shared.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: Southern / American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 480mg

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