Creamy Dream: The Best Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

Corn casseroles are comfort food staples that warm hearts with their creamy, rich cream cheese corn casserole recipe magic.

Southern kitchens have long treasured this delectable side dish that blends sweet corn kernels with smooth, tangy cream cheese.

The combination creates a decadent experience that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

Smooth and velvety textures mingle with subtle hints of buttery goodness in every single bite.

Each spoonful promises a delightful balance of flavors that dance across your palate.

Families gather around the table, eagerly anticipating this irresistible dish that turns simple ingredients into pure culinary joy.

You won’t be able to resist seconds of this mouthwatering corn casserole that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Flavor Variations for Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

• Vegan Corn Casserole: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream, use plant-based butter, and swap dairy milk for unsweetened almond milk.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and chili powder to boost flavor. Top with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute corn with riced cauliflower for a lower-carbohydrate version. Use full-fat cream cheese and add extra herbs for depth.
• Herbed Green Version: Mix in fresh chopped chives, parsley, and thyme. Sprinkle nutritional yeast instead of cheddar for a zesty, aromatic upgrade.

Serving Ideas for Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

• Party Platter Perfection: Serve this creamy corn casserole as a gorgeous side dish at barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings where guests love comforting, cheesy recipes.
• Protein Pairing Power: Complement the casserole with grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, or juicy steak to create a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will adore.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle extra jalapeños on top or add a dash of hot sauce for guests who crave bold, zesty flavors that elevate the creamy corn's richness.
• Leftover Magic: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or use as a delicious topping for baked potatoes, creating a quick and tasty second-day meal option.

How to Store Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool the casserole completely before covering to prevent condensation.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn?

Yes, you can use fresh corn kernels. Cut the kernels off the cob and use about 4 cups. Fresh corn will work well and provide a great flavor to the casserole.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe can be mild or spicy depending on whether you add jalapeños. If you want heat, include chopped jalapeños; if not, simply omit them for a creamy, mild dish.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, sprinkle cheese on top and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for meal planning.

Why Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Is So Good

• Whip Up Comfort: A creamy, cheesy side dish that wraps you in pure comfort food goodness with minimal kitchen effort.
• Customize with Kick: Add jalapeños for a spicy twist or keep it mild, making this corn casserole adaptable to different taste preferences.
• Quick Family Pleaser: Requires just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.
• Freezer to Table Magic: Uses convenient frozen corn for superior flavor, turning a basic ingredient into a restaurant-worthy side dish that impresses without complicated techniques.

Ingredients Needed for Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

• Cream Cheese: A rich and tangy dairy product that creates a smooth and creamy base for the casserole.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients into a smooth mixture.
• Corn: The star ingredient that provides a sweet and hearty texture to the casserole.
• Milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy consistency when combined with cream cheese and butter.

• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and melty layer of flavor to the top of the casserole.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Jalapeños: An optional ingredient that brings a spicy kick to the casserole for those who enjoy heat.

How to Bake Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350°F, getting ready for a delightful corn casserole adventure.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

In a medium pot over low heat, transform cream cheese and butter into a smooth, dreamy mixture.

Gently blend in milk until silky and luxurious.

Season with salt and pepper for a flavor boost.

• Corn kernels
• Jalapeños (optional for extra kick)

Step 3: Prepare For Baking

Transfer the corn mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish or 2-quart casserole pan.

Sprinkle a generous layer of grated cheddar cheese across the top.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble with cheesy goodness.

Tips for Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Success

• Choose frozen corn over canned for a fresher, more vibrant flavor and better texture in your casserole.
• Don't panic if butter and cream cheese look lumpy initially; adding milk will create a silky, creamy consistency.
• Keep the stovetop temperature low when melting dairy ingredients to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth blend.
• Add diced jalapeños for a zesty kick, transforming the classic corn casserole into a more exciting side dish.
• Enjoy this casserole as a comforting side or potluck favorite that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and barbecue dishes.

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy corn casserole brings Southern comfort straight to dinner tables with rich, cheesy goodness. Melted cheese and sweet corn create a side dish so irresistible you’ll want seconds before finishing firsts.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 18-ounce bag frozen sweet corn, thawed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Optional Ingredient:

• Diced pickled jalapeños

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F, creating an ideal environment for baking the casserole.
2. In a medium pot over low heat, gently melt cream cheese and butter, creating a rich and smooth base for the dish.
3. Gradually incorporate milk into the melted mixture, stirring continuously until the texture becomes uniformly creamy and free of lumps.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
5. Fold in corn kernels, ensuring even distribution throughout the creamy base. Add jalapeños for an optional spicy kick.
6. Transfer the corn mixture into an 8- by 8-inch square or 2-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
7. Generously sprinkle grated cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a golden, melty crust.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the edges become bubbly.
9. Pro tip: Frozen corn is recommended over canned for a more vibrant and fresh flavor in this recipe.

Notes

• Choose fresh or high-quality frozen corn for maximum flavor and sweetness in the casserole.
• Drain canned corn completely to prevent excess liquid from making the dish watery and losing its creamy texture.
• Mix ingredients thoroughly when melting cream cheese and butter to ensure a smooth, uniform consistency before adding other components.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more or less jalapeños, or substitute with mild green chiles for a family-friendly version that still provides a subtle kick.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg