Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
If you are searching for the ultimate comfort side dish that brings warmth, cheesiness, and a touch of Southern charm to your table, the Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. This casserole blends sweet corn with creamy cheeses and a hint of buttery richness, all baked to golden perfection. It’s wonderfully easy to make yet decadent enough to impress guests or make any weeknight dinner spectacular. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic and a staple for holiday gatherings or casual family meals alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simple ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the sweetness of the corn to the creamy tang of the cheeses, these components come together effortlessly to create magic.
- Whole kernel corn (1 can, 15 oz): Adds a delightful pop of sweetness and texture to the casserole.
- Cream-style corn (1 can, 15 oz): Brings creaminess and moisture to keep the dish luscious.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star ingredient for that silky, rich texture and mild tang.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Enhances flavor and adds a velvety mouthfeel to the mixture.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Contributes a slight tang and creaminess that balances the sweetness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Delivers sharp, melty cheesiness that makes every bite irresistible.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): A subtle, savory note that deepens the flavor complexity.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Provides a mild kick to elevate the overall taste.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential to bring out all the flavors perfectly.
- Large egg (1, beaten): Helps bind the ingredients into one cohesive casserole.
- Corn muffin mix (8.5 oz box, such as Jiffy): The base that creates a tender, crumbly texture and slightly sweet flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will have those lovely golden edges.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and sour cream until mostly smooth. This combination is the luscious foundation of your casserole, delivering richness and creaminess in every bite.
Step 3: Add the Corn and Seasonings
Stir in both the whole kernel corn and cream-style corn along with the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Each addition layers flavor and texture so the casserole is anything but boring.
Step 4: Incorporate the Egg and Corn Muffin Mix
Pour in the beaten egg and sprinkle the corn muffin mix over the bowl. Stir everything together until fully combined, ensuring a thick, even batter that will bake into a satisfactorily firm yet moist casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the center is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so the flavors settle and it slices nicely.
How to Serve Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle chopped green onions or chives right before serving. A light dusting of extra shredded cheddar or crumbled crispy bacon also adds fantastic texture and cheesiness to complement the casserole’s creamy interior.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with robust mains like barbecued ribs, roasted chicken, or a hearty beef brisket. It’s equally at home on the holiday table alongside turkey and mashed potatoes, adding a comforting, cheesy corn component that guests will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings, perfect for a dinner party. You can also add diced jalapeños or chopped bell peppers into the mixture for a little extra color and kick. Serving it with a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top lets guests customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its creamy texture and flavor well, making it easy to enjoy as a quick side during busy weeknights.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish or oven-safe container. Warm in the microwave on medium power or bake in a 350°F oven until heated through and slightly crisp on top. A few minutes under the broiler can bring back that freshly baked golden finish.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
While dairy is key to the creamy texture and cheesy flavor in this Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and plant-based sour cream to make a dairy-free version. Keep in mind, the texture and taste will differ.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the corn muffin mix?
Yes! There are gluten-free corn muffin mixes available in stores, or you can substitute with a combination of cornmeal and gluten-free flour. This swap keeps the casserole accessible for those with gluten sensitivities without losing the essential corn flavor.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, diced jalapeños, or green onions make fantastic additions that brighten the dish and enhance flavor. Just be sure to keep the moisture content balanced so the casserole sets properly.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when it’s set in the center and the top is golden brown. You can insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean but may have a few moist crumbs. Avoid underbaking to ensure the best texture.
Can this dish be prepared ahead and baked later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as needed.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe feels like passing on a secret passed through generations. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort, warmth, and joy to any meal with minimal effort yet maximum flavor. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a barbecue day, or a cozy family dinner, I encourage you to whip this up and make your loved ones smile at the table. Once you taste it, I promise it will become one of your go-to crowd-pleasers too!
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Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich and comforting side dish featuring a creamy blend of whole kernel and cream-style corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and corn muffin mix. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole offers a delightful combination of savory flavors and creamy textures, making it an ideal accompaniment for holiday meals or barbecues.
Ingredients
Mix-Ins
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dairy
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg, beaten
Spices and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Base
- 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and sour cream until mostly smooth and creamy, ensuring a smooth base for the casserole.
- Add Corn and Seasonings: Stir in the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse the mixture with flavor and texture.
- Incorporate Egg and Corn Muffin Mix: Add the beaten egg and corn muffin mix to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is fully combined and homogenous.
- Transfer and Smooth: Pour the prepared mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top has turned a golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let the casserole firm up for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added heat and flavor, mix in diced jalapeños or chopped green onions before baking.
- You can sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesier crust.
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with holiday meals, barbecues, or as a comforting side to any hearty main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
