Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole Everyone Will Love

There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that brings everyone together. The Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole is the perfect dish for a cozy evening at home, a festive holiday gathering, or even a casual family dinner. Its creamy texture, subtly sweet corn, and tender black-eyed peas combine to create a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and fresh. This dish has roots in Southern cuisine, where black-eyed peas are often enjoyed for good luck and celebration. Over the years, it has become a family favorite, a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Every bite offers a blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this casserole is easy to prepare, wholesome, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

• 1 cup frozen sweet corn

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)

• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked black-eyed peas, sweet corn, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Season the mixture with paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole for a crispy topping.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

7. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Notes

• Make ahead tip: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble it and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when ready to serve.

• Vegetable variations: Add diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or even roasted zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a slight twist in taste.

• Topping options: For a crunchier topping, use panko breadcrumbs or a mix of crushed crackers and grated parmesan.

• Serving suggestions: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, fresh green salad, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Why This Casserole Stands Out

What makes this casserole so special is its balance of textures and flavors. The creamy interior pairs perfectly with the crispy topping, while the black-eyed peas bring a hearty, earthy element and the sweet corn adds bursts of natural sweetness. It’s not only satisfying but also versatile, appealing to both vegetarian and family-friendly menus. This dish can also be doubled for larger gatherings, making it a reliable choice for potlucks, holiday dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is the star.

Health Benefits

Black-eyed peas are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins like folate and iron. Sweet corn adds antioxidants and a touch of natural sweetness without added sugar. This casserole is a hearty, wholesome option that feels indulgent while still providing valuable nutrients. Swapping full-fat dairy with lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt or low-fat cheese can also make this dish a lighter, guilt-free comfort meal.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Even cooking: Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly in the baking dish so every bite has the perfect combination of flavors.

• Creaminess factor: For an extra creamy texture, slightly mash some of the black-eyed peas before mixing them into the casserole.

• Avoid sogginess: If using canned black-eyed peas, rinse and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

• Flavor boost: A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top before serving can elevate the taste profile.

Pairing Ideas

This casserole pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy casserole. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts provide texture and color to the plate. Cornbread or dinner rolls make a perfect accompaniment, allowing the creamy, savory casserole to shine as the centerpiece.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Cover leftovers tightly with foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. The topping may need a few minutes under the broiler to regain its crispiness.

Why You’ll Make It Again and Again

Once you try this Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole, it’s hard not to make it a regular part of your cooking rotation. The flavors are comforting, the preparation is straightforward, and the dish is loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this casserole delivers a combination of warmth, flavor, and nostalgia that’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is golden brown. Preparing it ahead not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, making the casserole even more flavorful.

2. Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of cooked ones?
Yes! Canned black-eyed peas are a convenient alternative and work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium and moisture. Using canned peas reduces cooking time and still delivers the same creamy texture and earthy flavor that makes this casserole so comforting. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can slightly mash half of the peas before mixing them with the other ingredients, giving the casserole a smooth, creamy consistency.

3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?
This casserole is naturally vegetarian if you use dairy-based cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. To make it vegan, you can easily substitute plant-based alternatives such as vegan cheese, vegan sour cream, and vegan mayonnaise. Additionally, replace the milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. The result will still be creamy, flavorful, and comforting, while accommodating dietary preferences or restrictions. The sweet corn and black-eyed peas provide hearty protein and fiber, making this dish filling and satisfying for everyone.

4. How can I customize this casserole for extra flavor?
There are many ways to enhance the flavor of your casserole. Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or roasted zucchini can provide more color, texture, and nutrition. For a subtle smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or a dash of cumin. Topping options can also be varied—panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can add a crispy finish. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme not only brighten the presentation but also elevate the overall taste. This flexibility makes the casserole a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your family’s preferences.

Conclusion

The Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole is the perfect embodiment of true comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying. This dish brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with tender black-eyed peas and naturally sweet corn, creating a harmony of flavors that delights every palate. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home, a festive holiday gathering, or a casual family dinner, this casserole has the versatility and appeal to shine in any setting. Its rich, creamy texture and golden, crispy topping make it a dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it an instant centerpiece for any table.

One of the best things about this casserole is how approachable it is. Even beginner cooks can create a dish that feels luxurious and indulgent, yet it requires minimal effort and straightforward ingredients. The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or adjust the seasoning to your taste. This flexibility ensures that every batch can be slightly unique while still delivering the comforting, familiar flavors that make it so loved.

Beyond its taste, the Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole carries a sense of tradition and togetherness. Casseroles have always been more than just a meal—they are a way to gather people, share warmth, and celebrate simple pleasures. Each bite reminds us why these dishes have a cherished place in family kitchens and holiday tables alike.

Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole Everyone Will Love

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that brings people together. The Black Eyed Pea & Sweet Corn Casserole is perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. With tender black-eyed peas, sweet bursts of corn, and a creamy, cheesy base, this dish is both satisfying and nostalgic. Inspired by Southern cuisine traditions, it’s a recipe that celebrates wholesome ingredients and flavor. Easy to prepare and full of texture, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked black-eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

• 1 cup frozen sweet corn

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for topping

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.

• Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

• In a large bowl, combine black-eyed peas, sweet corn, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and milk. Mix thoroughly.

• Season with paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir to combine.

• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs evenly on top.

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

• Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

• Assemble ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

• Add vegetables: Diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can be added for extra flavor.

• Cheese variations: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack.

• Topping alternatives: Use panko breadcrumbs or parmesan for a different crunch.

• Serving suggestions: Pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or cornbread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Michelle Davis