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
- Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and generously grease an 8-inch square or 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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