If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food to wow friends and family, the Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender macaroni married with creamy corn, two melty cheeses, smoky bacon, and a hint of garlic, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is a joyful combination of nostalgic macaroni and cheese and crowd-pleasing corn casserole, easily earning its place at any gathering—from weeknight dinners to holiday tables. It’s rich, hearty, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What really makes the Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe a winner is how every ingredient brings its own magic. These pantry staples and fresh favorites work together to create an ultra-creamy, indulgent bake with just the right amount of crunch and color. Don’t let the simple list fool you—each item is essential for the wildly tasty results!
- Whole Kernel Corn (1 15-oz can, drained): Adds bursts of sweetness and delightful texture in every bite.
- Creamed Corn (1 15-oz can): Provides creamy body and natural sweetness to the casserole.
- Cooked Elbow Macaroni (1 ½ cups): The classic noodle gives chewiness and soaks up cheesy goodness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): For bold cheesy flavor and that iconic golden color.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup): Ensures extra gooeyness and a stretchy cheese pull.
- Sour Cream (½ cup): Adds tang and creaminess for the perfect texture.
- Milk (¼ cup): Helps everything blend together smoothly and keeps the casserole moist.
- Unsalted Butter, melted (4 tablespoons): Infuses rich, buttery flavor throughout.
- Large Eggs (2): Act as binders, giving the casserole structure and custardy softness.
- Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): A small amount brings out savory undertones without overpowering.
- Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle sweetness and subtle depth.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): For a touch of background warmth and spice.
- Cooked Bacon, crumbled (4 slices): Salty, smoky, crave-worthy bites throughout (and on top if you like!).
- Chopped Green Onions (2 tablespoons, optional): A fresh, crisp finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
How to Make Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
First things first—set your oven to 350°F so it heats up while you prep the casserole. Grease your baking dish (about 9×9 or a similar size) to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy after all the cheesy goodness is gone.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cooked elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed, forming a thick, creamy, irresistible mixture.
Step 3: Add Bacon and Layer Up
Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, being sure to save a little for the top if you want an extra-crispy, smoky finish. Pour the loaded mixture into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top, little bubbles along the edges, and a set (but still custardy) center. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving—this helps everything firm up and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To truly elevate your casserole, finish it with a sprinkle of reserved bacon and fresh green onions just before serving. These vibrant toppings add crunch, color, and the best little flavor pops against the rich, cheesy backdrop. Fresh chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also be welcome touches!
Side Dishes
The Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe plays well with almost anything. Serve it alongside grilled or roasted meats, BBQ chicken, holiday roasts, or a simple green salad for balance. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but shines especially bright at potlucks and family gatherings, where everyone wants just one more scoop.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for personal servings, or top it with a few jalapeño slices or diced bell peppers before baking for extra color and a gentle kick. Layer it on a platter over baby arugula for unexpected freshness, or slice it into squares for a buffet display—it’ll disappear in minutes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously) have any of your Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe left, simply cover the cooled casserole tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 4 days—just be sure to let it cool fully before refrigerating to avoid unwanted moisture buildup.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap individual pieces or the entire dish well in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating so the texture stays satisfyingly creamy.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 325°F until warmed through (about 20 to 30 minutes if reheating a whole dish). For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works perfectly—just add a splash of milk to keep things moist and gooey.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella give the classic melty texture and flavor, you can swap in Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a fun twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for the creamiest results.
Can I make the Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to baking time to account for the chilled temperature.
Is this casserole spicy?
Not by default, but you can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne if you like a little heat. Otherwise, it’s savory, cheesy, and smoky without any spice.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply leave out the bacon, and maybe add a pinch more smoked paprika or a handful of sautéed mushrooms for extra depth and heartiness.
Can I use gluten-free macaroni?
Yes, the Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe works well with gluten-free macaroni—just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds its shape after baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s outrageously comforting and guaranteed to become a new favorite, don’t wait to try this Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe. Each bite is a blend of creamy, chewy, smoky, and sweet flavors that’s pure comfort. Gather your friends or family, whip up this cheesy masterpiece, and watch it disappear!
Print
Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole, a creamy and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the savory addition of bacon and a hint of green onions, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 1 ½ cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Seasonings and Toppings:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained corn, creamed corn, cooked macaroni, cheeses, sour cream, milk, melted butter, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon. Reserve some for topping, if desired.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes until set and golden on top.
- Serve: Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with green onions and reserved bacon. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole ahead and refrigerate it before baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding jalapeños or chopped bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
