Gluten-Free Tomato Corn Summer Casserole
A creative end-of-summer casserole that transforms peak-season tomatoes and sweet corn into a comforting layered dish. Seasoned tomato slices alternate with a creamy corn mixture enriched with mascarpone, while ground gluten-free waffles create an unexpected crispy topping mixed with Parmesan and fresh basil. The butter dots throughout add richness as they melt into golden, bubbly layers. This unique casserole makes an excellent side dish for late summer barbecues or a vegetarian main course that celebrates the harvest season's best flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and butter a large baking dish
- 2
Slice tomatoes and arrange on baking rack over sheet pan
- 3
Season tomato slices generously with salt and pepper and let drain
- 4
Combine milk, cream and corn kernels in large saucepan
- 5
Cook over medium high heat until simmering
- 6
Simmer until corn is tender
- 7
Let cool and whisk in mascarpone cheese
- 8
Grind waffles in blender or food processor until they resemble breadcrumbs
- 9
Mix waffle crumbs with Parmesan cheese and basil
- 10
Season crumb mixture with salt and pepper
- 11
Layer tomatoes in prepared baking dish
- 12
Top with portion of waffle crumb mixture
- 13
Dot with portion of butter pieces
- 14
Pour half of corn mixture over top
- 15
Add another layer of tomatoes, waffle crumbs and butter
- 16
Pour remaining corn mixture over
- 17
Make final layer with remaining tomatoes, waffle crumbs and butter
- 18
Bake until hot and bubbly with nicely browned top
Tips
Let tomatoes drain on the rack for the full 30 minutes to prevent a watery casserole
Make sure the corn mixture has cooled before whisking in mascarpone to prevent curdling
Pulse the waffles carefully in the food processor to get even breadcrumb-sized pieces
Good to Know
Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in 350F oven until warmed through.
Can be assembled up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time.
Serve hot as a side dish with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course with a simple salad.
Common Mistakes
Skip draining tomatoes to avoid excess liquid making casserole watery
Add mascarpone while corn mixture is too hot to prevent cheese from curdling
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
high
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use fresh waffles instead of frozen?
Yes, but let them sit out uncovered for a few hours to dry out slightly before grinding, or toast them lightly first.
What if I don't have mascarpone cheese?
Cream cheese works well as a substitute. Make sure it's softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in a 350F oven until heated through.