8 Corn-Based Holiday Side Dishes to Try (Your Table Deserves Them!)
Let’s be real—holiday sides are just as important as the turkey.
They’re the stuff people fight over at the dinner table (no shame).
And while mashed potatoes and green beans are classics, corn deserves a little more love.
Sweet, buttery, versatile—corn can go from humble to show-stopping in a few easy steps.
So whether you’re short on time, hosting a crowd, or just want something that’ll have your family singing your praises, I’ve rounded up 8 corn-based holiday side dishes that are easy, tasty, and fun.
Prepare to add a little golden magic to your table.
1. Cheesy Corn Casserole
Why It’s Awesome
If comfort food had a face, it would be this casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and just sweet enough to make everyone fight for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can creamed corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake 45–50 minutes until golden on top.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s basically cornbread and corn pudding had a delicious, cheesy baby. IMO, the leftovers are even better.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad
Why It’s Awesome
It’s like elote without the mess. Tangy, creamy, and a little spicy—your taste buds will think they’re on a mini vacation.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast corn in a skillet until lightly charred.
- Toss with mayonnaise, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.
- Sprinkle cilantro on top before serving.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s crunchy, creamy, and full of flavor. Seriously, people will fight over the last bite.
3. Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
Why It’s Awesome
Mini, golden, and sweetened just enough with honey butter. These muffins are perfect for dunking into soups or eating solo (don’t judge).
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk wet ingredients separately, then combine.
- Pour into greased muffin tin and bake 15–20 minutes.
- Serve warm with honey butter.
Why You’ll Love It
These are soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for portion control (or not—honestly, eat three).
4. Creamed Corn with a Twist
Why It’s Awesome
Classic comfort with a little flair. This version adds a hint of parmesan and garlic for grown-up taste without losing its creamy charm.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Add corn and cream, simmer 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s rich, velvety, and elevated just enough to impress your in-laws.
5. Corn and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Why It’s Awesome
Sweet corn + nutty Brussels sprouts + crispy bits = flavor explosion. Yes, it’s veggie magic.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 3 slices bacon, chopped (optional, skip if avoiding pork)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Add corn and bacon halfway through cooking.
- Toss together and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love It
The sweetness of corn balances the bitter Brussels sprouts perfectly. Bonus: the bacon makes it irresistible (or swap with smoked paprika for a vegetarian twist).
6. Sweet Corn Pudding
Why It’s Awesome
A custardy, creamy corn dish that’s sweet but not over the top. It’s like dessert and side dish had a baby—and it’s brilliant.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into greased baking dish and bake 40–45 minutes until set.
Why You’ll Love It
It’s creamy, sweet, and surprisingly elegant for a holiday table.
7. Corn and Cheddar Fritters
Why It’s Awesome
Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with cheddar and corn flavor. Perfect finger food for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until thick batter forms.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Why You’ll Love It
Crispy, cheesy, and quick. These are great for a last-minute side or appetizer.
8. Corn Salsa with Cranberries
Why It’s Awesome
A holiday twist on classic corn salsa. Sweet cranberries, tangy lime, and crisp corn make it refreshing next to all the rich sides.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve alongside your main dishes.
Why You’ll Love It
Bright, colorful, and a little tart—perfect for cutting through all that butter and cheese.
Conclusion
Corn isn’t just a side—it’s a holiday superstar. From creamy puddings to roasted perfection, there’s a golden dish here for everyone.
Quick, versatile, and downright delicious, these 8 corn-based holiday sides will make your table the one everyone talks about.
Bonus: most are easy to prep in advance, so you can spend more time sipping cocoa and less time stressing in the kitchen.
Try a few (or all) this season—your taste buds will thank you!
