Irresistible Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

Dreamy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe Everyone Loves

Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning with this decadent cream cheese corn casserole that promises to tantalize taste buds.

Rich, creamy textures blend perfectly with sweet corn kernels in a dish that screams home-style deliciousness.

Each spoonful delivers a burst of flavor that transforms an ordinary side into something extraordinary.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with minimal effort, creating a crowd-pleasing sensation.

Cheese lovers and corn enthusiasts will find themselves swooning over this irresistible creation.

Prepare to be the star of your next gathering with this mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.

Serve Corn Casserole as a Side Everyone Remembers

  • Festive Family Feast: Pair this creamy corn casserole with roasted chicken or grilled turkey for a hearty family meal that brings everyone together.
  • Southwestern Spice Twist: Top the casserole with crispy bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream for a zesty southwestern-inspired side dish.
  • Potluck Party Pleaser: Bring this crowd-pleasing casserole to neighborhood gatherings or holiday potlucks – it travels well and reheats perfectly in the oven.
  • Brunch Brilliance: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy hash browns for a decadent weekend brunch that will impress your guests with minimal effort.

Storing Cream Cheese Corn Casserole the Right Way

  • Keep leftovers in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
  • Warm individual portions in the microwave for 45-60 seconds, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly. For best texture, add a splash of milk to prevent dryness.
  • Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store frozen meals for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350F for 20-25 minutes.
  • Prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate uncooked. When ready to serve, bake directly from the cold state, adding 10-15 minutes to the original cooking time to ensure thorough heating.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute canned corn with frozen corn. Just thaw and drain the corn completely before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

  • Is this dish spicy because of green chiles?

Green chiles add mild flavor and slight heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, use mild green chiles or reduce the amount to control the spiciness.

  • Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

  • What can I do if I don't have cheddar cheese?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or mild American cheese work great as substitutes. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the corn’s sweetness.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 250 kcal

Servings: 9

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Ingredient Roundup

For Creamy Base Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Adds luxurious richness and smooth texture to the casserole. Choose full-fat variety for best flavor and consistency.
  • Butter: Provides depth of flavor and helps create a silky sauce. Select unsalted butter to control salt levels.
  • Milk: Creates a smooth, creamy liquid base that helps blend ingredients. Whole milk works best for richness.
For Corn and Vegetable Mix:
  • Corn: Sweet kernel base of the dish. Fresh or frozen corn both work wonderfully. Drain well if using canned corn.
  • Green Chiles: Brings subtle heat and tangy flavor. Opt for mild or hot depending on spice preference.
For Cheese and Seasoning:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Delivers sharp, melty goodness. Shred your own cheese for superior melting quality.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile. Use kosher or sea salt for best taste.
  • Black Pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth. Freshly ground pepper provides more intense flavor.
For Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh herbal note. Finely chop before sprinkling.
  • Green Onions: Introduces mild onion crispness and visual appeal. Slice thinly for best presentation.

Tools That Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole a Snap

  • Medium Saucepan: Essential for melting cream cheese and butter smoothly while creating the creamy base.
  • 8×8-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for preparing and baking the corn casserole, ensuring even heat distribution.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients and mixing the corn mixture without scratching the saucepan.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring milk, cheese, and seasonings.
  • Foil: Used to cover the casserole during initial baking, preventing excessive browning.
  • Cheese Grater (optional): Helpful if using block cheese that needs shredding.

How to Bake a and Cheesy Corn Casserole

  • Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F and give your baking dish a quick butter massage to prevent sticking.

  • Create Silky Cheese Sauce

Melt cream cheese and butter in a saucepan, whisking until they become a dreamy, smooth blend. Pour in milk and keep stirring until the mixture looks like liquid velvet.

  • Mix Flavor Explosion

Pull the pan off the heat and toss in corn, half the cheese, green chiles, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s beautifully combined, creating a mouthwatering medley.

  • Bake and Bubble

Dump the corn concoction into your prepared dish. Shower the top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and slide into the oven for a 30-minute flavor transformation.

  • Golden Finish

Whip off the foil and let the casserole bake an extra 10-15 minutes until the cheese turns into a crispy, golden blanket.

  • Serve and Celebrate

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top. Serve piping hot and watch everyone dive in with excitement.

Flavor Add-Ins for Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Delight

  • Prepare the entire casserole up to the point of baking and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time when cooking directly from cold.
  • For those who love heat, swap out mild green chiles for diced jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Conversely, for a milder version, omit chiles completely for a classic creamy corn side dish.
  • Transform this recipe for different dietary needs by using lactose-free cream cheese and milk, or substitute dairy-free alternatives. Gluten-free friends can enjoy this dish as it's naturally gluten-free.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 325F, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Stores beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed butter crackers on top during the final baking stage. This creates a delightful crispy layer that elevates the creamy corn base.
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Irresistible Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

Irresistible Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe


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4.9 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Heartwarming Cream Cheese Corn Casserole brings Southern comfort to dinner tables with creamy, cheesy goodness. Simple ingredients combine for a rich side dish that satisfies hunger and warms souls.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (32 fl oz/960 ml) frozen corn, thawed (or two 15 oz/425 g cans, drained)
  • 1 (8 oz/226 g) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 tbsps unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 oz/113 g can diced green chiles
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and generously grease an 8-inch square or 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Creamy Base Development: In a medium saucepan, melt cream cheese and butter over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture transforms into a silky, unified texture. Gradually introduce milk, whisking until achieving a luxurious, smooth consistency.
  3. Flavor Infusion: Remove from heat and incorporate corn kernels, half the cheddar cheese, diced green chiles, salt, and pepper, ensuring comprehensive integration of all ingredients.
  4. Assembly and Initial Baking: Pour the vibrant mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly. Top with remaining cheddar cheese, then cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and texture to develop.
  5. Final Browning and Presentation: Uncover the casserole and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden-brown. Rest briefly, then garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.

Notes

  • Control Cheese Melting: Grate cheese at room temperature for smoother, more even melting without clumping or becoming greasy.
  • Prevent Watery Texture: Drain corn kernels thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the casserole runny and less creamy.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Consider roasting corn kernels briefly before adding to develop a richer, slightly smoky flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
  • Dietary Modification: Swap regular dairy for lactose-free or plant-based alternatives to create a friendly version for those with dietary restrictions without compromising the creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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