Trinidad Corn Pie – Immaculate Bites

Trinidad Corn Pie – This irresistible corn casserole loaded with flavor boasts a subtle kick of heat. While it’s a must-have for the holidays, it’s good enough to whip up all year round.

This pillowy, creamy, spicy corn goodness is a beloved classic throughout the Caribbean. And for good reason! It’s authentic island comfort food. 🏝️

This recipe for Trinidad corn pie is loaded with savory ingredients. The corn’s sweetness and scotch bonnet’s spiciness give it a balanced flavor that is out of this world! Plus, it’s easy to customize. For example, if scotch bonnets are too spicy, swap them out for jalapenos or leave out the spicy peppers altogether.

When to Serve Trinidad Corn Pie

Who doesn’t love a dish loaded with cheese and corn? This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser with just about any main course. That makes it fantastic for holidays, backyard BBQs, family dinners, and potlucks 😋

Recipe Ingredients

1. Corn – Canned corn is quick, easy, and tastes great, but you could use frozen or fresh corn. 🌽
2. Egg – Eggs work as a binder, creating a texture somewhere between a casserole and a pudding.
3. Cornmeal – Cornmeal gives this “pie” a more dense and hearty consistency.
4. Dairy – Evaporated milk, butter, and cheddar cheese all add flavor and richness to this indulgent dish.
5. Vegetables add color and texture: onions, green onions, bell peppers, and scotch bonnets. 
6. Seasonings – Salt, white pepper, and parsley are all you need to season this corn pie. But if you like things on the sweet side, add a little sugar. 

How to Make Trinidad Corn Pie

Making the Trinidad Corn Pie

• Preheat the oven to 350℉ (180℃). Grease your casserole bowl and set aside.
• Prep Corn – Strain the liquid from the can of corn into a bowl. Pour it into a measuring cup; if it doesn’t reach the one-cup mark, add water until it does.
• Mix – Return the water to the bowl, then add the egg and cornmeal. Mix thoroughly and set aside. (Photo 1)
• Cook Veggies – Melt the butter in a saucepan, then add the green onion, bell pepper, onion, salt, and pepper. Stir for 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender. (Photo 2)
• Simmer – Add the milk, bring to a boil, and quickly add the cornmeal and egg mixture. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently. (Photo 3)
• Add the corn and continue simmering for another 5 minutes or until the mixture pulls away easily from the sides of the pot. (Photo 4)
• Cheese – Finally, add ½ cup of cheese, parsley, and sugar (if desired), and mix well. (Photo 5)

Baking the Trinidad Corn Pie

• Transfer the corn casserole into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. (Photo 6)
• Bake until the top is lightly brown, about 30-40 minutes, and the cheese is bubbly.
• Serve – Let it cool for a few minutes before serving hot so the cheese has time to firm up just enough.

Recipe Variations

1. If you like Trinidad corn pie a little drier, use half a cup of evaporated milk. If you prefer moister casserole, use the entire can.
2. Add cooked sausage, bacon, or prosciutto on top for some added protein and a salty garnish. 🥓
3. Leave out the cheese, and this recipe will still taste great.

Tips and Tricks

1. After you add the cornmeal to the pot, stir frequently, or the cornmeal may settle to the bottom and burn. 🥄
2. Don’t forget to grease your casserole dish to make it easier to slice and serve. 
3. You’ll know the corn mixture is ready to bake when it thickens and comes away easily from the pot’s side. Once thickened, pop it in the casserole dish and bake away.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can assemble this casserole the night before and bake it the next day. You can also freeze this casserole for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge the night before you want to serve it, and then bake it as directed for about 30 minutes.

Serving and Storage Instructions

Trinidad corn pie is best served hot, fresh out of the oven.

Refrigerate leftover corn casserole in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Reheat them in the microwave or 350℉ (180℃) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. 

What Goes With Trinidad Corn Pie

Most islanders love to serve Trinidad corn pie with brown stew chicken, rice and peas, and perhaps a side of callaloo! Wash it down with a refreshing glass of sorrel drink ​for a real Caribbean treat. 🫶

More Classic Corn Recipes to Try

1. Corn Souffle
2. Corn Fritters
3. Hot Corn Dip
4. Jiffy Corn Casserole
5. Corn Chowder

Watch How to Make It

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This blog post was originally published in November 2015 and has been updated with additional tips, new photos, and a video