Cheesy Baked Corn Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This cheesy baked corn casserole is a comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. Creamy, flavorful, and topped with melted sharp cheddar, it’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ 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

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium pot set over low heat, gently melt the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
3. Step 3: Stir the milk into the melted dairy mixture until it becomes completely smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Mix in the salt, freshly ground black pepper, thawed sweet corn, and diced pickled jalapeños if using.
5. Step 5: Pour the warm corn mixture into an 8×8-inch square or 2-quart glass baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the edges are bubbly. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add more diced pickled jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the corn mixture.
• Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor.
• Try mixing in some chopped green onions or cooked bacon bits for added texture and taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the cheesy goodness and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh corn kernels. About 2 to 2½ cups of fresh corn kernels will work well. Just sauté them briefly before mixing to soften.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this cheesy baked corn casserole contains no wheat or gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all packaged ingredients like jalapeños are gluten-free if you have dietary concerns.

Cheesy Baked Corn Casserole Recipe

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A creamy and comforting Cheesy Baked Corn Casserole featuring melted cream cheese, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese combined with sweet corn and optional pickled jalapeños, baked until bubbly and golden brown. Perfect as a side dish for any meal.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Mixture

• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons butter (salted OR unsalted)
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Main Ingredients

• 1 18-ounce bag frozen sweet corn, thawed
• Diced pickled jalapeños (to taste, OPTIONAL)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Melt the Base: In a medium pot set over low heat, gently melt the cubed, room-temperature cream cheese and the butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and combined.
3. Build the Sauce: Stir the milk into the melted cream cheese and butter mixture gradually until the sauce becomes completely smooth and creamy without lumps.
4. Mix in the Corn: Add the salt, freshly ground black pepper, thawed sweet corn, and diced pickled jalapeños (if using) to the sauce, mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly.
5. Transfer to Dish: Pour the warm corn mixture directly into an 8×8-inch square or 2-quart glass baking dish, spreading it into an even layer for consistent baking.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a golden cheesy crust as it bakes.
7. Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is deeply golden and the edges are bubbly, then serve warm.

Notes

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure smooth melting without lumps.
• Frozen corn should be fully thawed before mixing for the best texture.
• Diced pickled jalapeños are optional but add a nice spicy kick and tang.
• Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven; watch for golden bubbly cheese to determine doneness.
• For a lighter version, you can substitute part of the butter with olive oil and use reduced-fat cheese.

Keywords: corn casserole, cheesy corn bake, baked corn recipe, creamy corn casserole, side dish, comfort food