If you are looking for a warm, comforting, and irresistibly creamy side dish that brings the best out of every spoonful, look no further. This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is a delightful celebration of sweet corn and rich cream cheese blended into a luscious bake that feels like a big, cozy hug from your oven. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday feast or making a hearty addition to a weeknight dinner, this casserole’s combination of textures and savory flavors makes it an absolute star on any table. I promise, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this creamy, cheesy corn goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe comes from a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that marry together for incredible taste, texture, and a comforting golden color. Each component plays a crucial role — from the sweet pops of whole kernel corn to the smooth richness of cream cheese, and the savory blend of spices that lift every bite.
- Whole kernel corn (2 cans, drained): Adds the perfect sweet crunch and bursts of corn flavor.
- Creamed corn (1 can): Ensures the casserole stays creamy and smooth throughout.
- Cream cheese (1 package, softened and cubed): Brings luscious creaminess and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Enhances richness and helps tie all the flavors together.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds sharpness and melts beautifully for that cheesy goodness.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Provides a gentle, savory depth without overpowering the sweetness.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Complements the garlic with a subtle, aromatic punch.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a light kick to balance the creamy sweetness.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional topping): Provides a delightful golden crunch when sprinkled on top.
- Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped, optional garnish): Adds a fresh burst of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms, grab a large mixing bowl to combine your main ingredients. This step ensures your cooking space is ready and your casserole will bake evenly and perfectly.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Into your large mixing bowl, add the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and the cubed cream cheese. Pour in the melted butter for richness, then sprinkle in your cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Now comes the fun part: stir everything until you get a silky, well-blended mixture where the cream cheese starts melting into every corner of the corn.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×9-inch or a 2-quart baking dish and pour your creamy corn mixture inside. Use a spatula to smooth the top out nice and even. If you’re going for that irresistible crispy top, sprinkle your crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs over the surface. It’s that little crunch that turns this dish from everyday to extraordinary.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot and bubbly, with a light golden crust forming on the top. Then, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy or want a pop of color.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds visual appeal but also a hint of herbal freshness that complements the richness beautifully. If you want to add a bit more texture and flavor, crispy bacon bits or a dash of smoked paprika works wonders too!
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a side dish alongside roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. It’s also a fantastic partner to grilled veggies or a fresh salad, bringing a creamy contrast that balances lighter flavors. For cozy, hearty meals, serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic combo everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for elegant, personal portions at a dinner party. Or layer it as part of a hearty casserole bake with cooked greens or crumbled sausage. Even better, turn leftovers into a topping for baked potatoes or a filling for quesadillas to enjoy a new twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, and it makes a fantastic ready-to-heat side for busy days when time is short but you want something comforting.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Bake it as directed, then cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil or plastic wrap and placing in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly again. Cover with foil during reheating to keep moisture locked in, and remove the foil near the end if you want to crisp up the topping again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well and often tastes fresher. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture affecting the casserole’s texture.
What can I add to make this casserole more flavorful?
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or a dash of smoked paprika. These ingredients add depth and a touch of excitement to the creamy base.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main casserole itself is gluten-free if you skip the crackers or breadcrumbs on top or use gluten-free versions. Always check your ingredients just to be sure!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. When baking, just add 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s warmed through.
How many does this recipe serve?
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe serves about 6 hearty portions, making it perfect for a family meal or small gathering.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, comforting and exciting all at once. This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe captures that feeling perfectly. It’s easy to make, deliciously creamy, and guaranteed to become a favorite go-to for your side dish repertoire. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it brings smiles and satisfaction to your table. Happy baking!
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Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish perfect for holidays or family dinners. Combining whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and softened cream cheese with melted butter and cheddar cheese, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection topped optionally with buttery crackers for added texture and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened and cubed cream cheese, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch or 2-quart baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the corn mixture into it and use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly.
- Add Topping: If using, sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy texture when baked.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon or chopped green chiles into the mixture before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; if baking chilled, add an additional 5 to 10 minutes to the cook time.
