If you are on the hunt for a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is exactly what your soul has been craving. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet bursts of tender corn that come together to create a comforting side that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday feast or just craving something cozy, this casserole hits the spot with its rich texture and deliciously savory flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in making this casserole irresistible. From the creamy softness of cream cheese to the natural sweetness of corn, every element complements the others perfectly.
- Whole kernel corn: Provides lovely texture and that classic corn sweetness that’s essential to the dish.
- Creamed corn: Adds creaminess and a little extra moisture for that smooth casserole base.
- Cream cheese: Softened and cubed, this ingredient brings luscious creaminess that binds everything together.
- Butter: Melted butter gives the casserole a rich, silky finish and helps with browning.
- Milk: Adds moisture and lightens up the cream cheese for a smoother mix.
- Sugar (optional): Just a touch to balance the natural savoriness if you like your casserole with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
- Cheddar cheese (optional topping): A sharp, melty layer that makes the dish irresistibly cheesy and golden on top.
- Green onions (optional garnish): Freshness and a bit of color to brighten the finished casserole.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well to prevent the casserole from sticking and to help it bake evenly. Prepping your oven and dish ahead ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Mix the Corn and Creamy Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn. Add the softened cream cheese cubes, melted butter, and milk. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, toss in the optional sugar for a subtle sweetness. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, then stir everything until it forms a smooth, homogenous mix. This step is where all those simple ingredients come together to create magic.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the creamy corn mixture into your prepared baking dish in an even layer. If you love extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to get a golden, bubbly crust. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is set, bubbly, and has a gorgeous golden top. The smell happening in your kitchen at this stage is simply heavenly.
Step 4: Cool Slightly and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool for about 5 minutes—it helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top if you want that fresh pop of color and a mild onion kick that balances all the creaminess.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh green onions on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also delivers a crisp, mild sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole. You could also try a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a dash of smoked paprika for an unexpected flavor twist.
Side Dishes
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, and it’s also fabulous alongside barbecue dishes. The creamy, sweet corn tones down smoky and spicy flavors, making it a perfect sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole straight from the baking dish family-style or portion it into cute ramekins for individual servings. For a festive touch, top with extra cheese and broil for a minute for a bubbly crust, or add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare but does happen!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 4 days and maintain their creamy texture, ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by covering the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It’s best eaten within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, around 15 to 20 minutes. Cover it loosely with foil if you want to avoid the top browning too much. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method keeps the texture creamier.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will add a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. Just be sure to cook it lightly or blanch it before mixing to keep the casserole creamy and well-cooked.
Is the cream cheese necessary?
Cream cheese is key to achieving that signature creamy texture and rich flavor, so I wouldn’t recommend skipping it. However, if needed, you can substitute with a similar soft cheese like mascarpone, but the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I make this casserole vegan?
With some ingredient swaps like using vegan cream cheese, dairy-free milk, and vegan butter, this recipe can be adapted for a vegan diet. Just keep the seasoning balanced, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based casserole.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese for the topping?
No worries! The topping is optional, so your casserole will still be delicious without it. Alternatively, try using mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different cheese experience.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and comforting by nature, but you can definitely add a bit of heat! Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeños, or sprinkle chili flakes to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about sinking your fork into this creamy, sweet, and savory Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe. It’s effortless to make, incredibly comforting, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes too. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and share some homemade warmth with this delicious casserole.
Print
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. Combining whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and rich cream cheese, it bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection topped with melted cheddar and fresh green onions. Simple to prepare and wonderfully flavorful, it makes a delicious accompaniment for holiday dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened and cubed cream cheese, melted butter, milk, sugar if using, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the creamy corn mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top for a cheesy crust. Place in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if you like, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a smoother casserole, ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing.
- Sugar is optional; you can omit it for a less sweet dish or add a little more if you prefer a sweeter casserole.
- Cheddar cheese topping can be skipped for a lighter version or substituted with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- This casserole pairs well with roasted meats, poultry, or as a standalone vegetarian side dish.
