If you’re looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish that transforms simple ingredients into a creamy delight, this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. The luxurious combination of smooth cream cheese, sweet corn, and sharp cheddar creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s cheesy, rich, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a staple that you’ll want to serve again and again — whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it doesn’t require a pantry full of fancy ingredients. Each component plays a critical role in building the casserole’s irresistible creamy texture, balanced flavor, and appealing color.
- Cream cheese (8-ounce, cubed and at room temperature): The star ingredient that delivers that luscious, velvety base for the casserole.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps melt the cheese smoothly into the mixture.
- Milk (1/3 cup): Perfect for thinning the cream cheese and butter to achieve a creamy consistency without making it runny.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle, warming spice to balance the sweetness of the corn.
- Frozen sweet corn (18-ounce bag, thawed): The heart of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and texture that everyone loves.
- Diced pickled jalapeños (optional, to taste): For those who enjoy a mild kick, these add a surprising zing and depth.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Creates a bubbling, golden crust with a sharp tanginess that perfectly finishes the casserole.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Cream Cheese and Butter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, and place a medium pot on low heat. Add your cubed cream cheese and butter, stirring occasionally. This gentle heat will coax the two to melt together into a silky, creamy mixture that’s the base of your casserole. Patience here ensures smoothness without lumps.
Step 2: Stir in Milk and Seasoning
Once the cream cheese and butter blend is smooth, slowly pour in the milk while stirring to keep the texture creamy and well combined. This step prevents any curdling. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to season — remember, these simple spices will balance the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Corn and Jalapeños
Next, fold in your thawed sweet corn, mixing until every kernel is coated in the creamy mixture. If you like a little heat, toss in some diced pickled jalapeños here — they elevate the flavor profile in the most delightful way. The mixture should look thick and full of color.
Step 4: Bake and Add Cheddar Topping
Pour the corn mixture into an 8-by-8 inch baking dish or any 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly on top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 minutes. When it comes out, look for a golden, bubbly surface — that’s the sign your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is ready to impress.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the rich casserole, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky aroma, while a few extra jalapeño slices can pump up the visual appeal and the heat for adventurous eaters.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a hearty barbecue spread. Its creamy texture and sweet-cheesy flavor provide an excellent balance alongside tangy or spicy dishes, making it versatile no matter the main course.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your presentation pop, serve the casserole in small individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. Alternatively, top the casserole with crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon just before serving for contrast in texture and an extra flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy texture holds up well, making for a quick and comforting next-day side or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole whole or in individual portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps retain that delightful baked top layer.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels will work beautifully and bring a slight difference in sweetness and texture. Just boil or roast the corn first, then add it to the mixture as directed.
Is this dish very spicy with jalapeños?
The jalapeños are completely optional and can be adjusted to your heat tolerance. If you prefer no spice, simply leave them out or use a smaller amount for a gentle kick.
Can I substitute cheddar cheese for something else?
Sharp cheddar offers great flavor, but you can swap it with a mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella for a different cheesy note. Just keep the quantity similar for the perfect melt.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This casserole relies heavily on dairy, especially cream cheese and butter, but you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives. Keep in mind this may change the texture and taste slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven is best to keep the top golden and prevent the casserole from getting soggy. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe truly is a gem for anyone craving a quick, creamy, and indulgently cheesy side dish. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it approachable for cooks of all levels, and its delicious results keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re sharing it at the dinner table or bringing it to a potluck, give it a try — I promise it’s a recipe you’ll treasure forever.
Print
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and easy-to-make side dish that combines smooth cream cheese with sweet corn and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a comforting addition to any meal and can be customized with optional pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 4 tablespoons butter, salted or unsalted
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (18-ounce) bag frozen sweet corn, thawed
- Diced pickled jalapeños, to taste (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the casserole.
- Melt Cream Cheese and Butter: Place a medium pot over low heat and add the cubed cream cheese and butter. Stir frequently until both are fully melted and combined.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Stir in the milk slowly until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. Then add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well.
- Mix in Corn and Jalapeños: Add the thawed sweet corn to the creamy mixture. If desired, mix in diced pickled jalapeños for a spicy flavor. Stir everything until evenly combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the corn mixture into an 8- by 8-inch square baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the corn mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you may add a little more milk if the mixture appears too thick before baking.
- Pickled jalapeños add a nice kick, but they are optional depending on your spice preference.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger cheese flavor, or substitute with your favorite cheese.
- Ensure the corn is fully thawed to prevent excess water in the casserole.
