Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

Irresistibly Gooey Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

A side dish that brings creamy cheesy cream cheese corn casserole magic to your dinner table!

Southern kitchens have perfected this comforting recipe for generations.

corn lovers will absolutely adore this rich, decadent casserole that melts in your mouth.

Each spoonful offers a perfect blend of sweet corn kernels and velvety cheese goodness.

Friends and relatives always request seconds when this dish arrives at gatherings.

Crispy edges and a smooth interior make this casserole irresistible for any meal.

Warm, bubbling, and packed with flavor, you won’t be able to resist diving into this delightful creation.

Why Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Gets So Many Compliments

  • Creamy Comfort Fusion: This corn casserole delivers a luxurious blend of melted cheeses and sweet corn, creating a velvety texture that wraps you in pure comfort food warmth.
  • Quick and Easy Weeknight Wonder: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in under 45 minutes.
  • Versatile Side Dish Champion: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this cheesy corn casserole complements everything from grilled meats to roasted chicken, making it an incredibly adaptable recipe.
  • Customizable Flavor Playground: Easily personalize the dish by adding jalapeños for heat, experimenting with different cheese combinations, or incorporating herbs to match your taste preferences and mood.

Ingredients List For Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Dairy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides rich, smooth texture and tangy flavor. Full-fat version recommended for best results.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creamy consistency and subtle tang. Regular or low-fat options work well.
  • Butter: Creates smooth base and enhances overall richness. Unsalted preferred for better flavor control.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Brings sharp, classic cheese flavor. Sharp or mild varieties can be used.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth to the dish. Freshly grated provides best flavor.
Vegetable Components:
  • Corn: Main star of the casserole, providing sweet and hearty base. Fresh, frozen, or canned corn acceptable.
  • Jalapeños: Optional spicy element. Fresh or jarred versions add optional heat.
  • Green Chilies: Optional ingredient for additional mild heat and complexity.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder: Delivers subtle garlic flavor without raw garlic texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall taste and balances other ingredients.
  • Black Pepper: Provides mild heat and complements cheese flavors.
  • Parsley: Optional fresh garnish for color and light herbal note.

How To Cook Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

How To Cook Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Slide the oven rack to the middle position and crank up the heat to 375°F. Grab a casserole dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create a Luxurious Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over gentle heat, melt the butter until it’s silky smooth. Drop in the cream cheese and whisk until it transforms into a velvety mixture. Sprinkle in:
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Sour cream

Stir everything until the sauce becomes wonderfully creamy and fully blended.

Step 3: Blend Corn and Cheese Goodness

Tumble the corn into the creamy sauce. Shower in the cheeses:
  • Cheddar
  • Parmesan

If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick. Stir until the corn and cheeses are perfectly integrated.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the corn mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating a smooth surface. Shower additional shredded cheddar on top for a golden, crispy crown.

Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges bubble with excitement and the cheese on top turns golden brown and slightly crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the creamy, cheesy corn delight!

Tips To Nail Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

  • Customize Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or gouda to add unique flavor profiles and make the dish more exciting.
  • Boost Vegetable Nutrition: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to increase vegetable content and enhance the overall nutritional value of the casserole.
  • Create Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free butter and ensure all cheese brands are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spice Up the Flavor: Add smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or crispy bacon bits to introduce extra depth and complexity to the corn casserole's taste.
  • Make Ahead and Freeze: Prepare the casserole in advance, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months, allowing for convenient meal planning and quick dinner solutions.

Best Ways To Store Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover corn casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or freezer-safe container. Stays delicious for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover dish with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
  • Microwave: Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming. Add splash of milk if seeming dry.

Foods That Go Well With Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

  • Pair with Zesty Grilled Protein: Complement the creamy corn casserole with grilled chicken or barbecued pork chops. The rich, cheesy corn dish creates a perfect balance with smoky, charred meats that add depth and protein to the meal.
  • Serve Alongside Crisp Green Salad: Cut through the casserole's richness with a light, tangy salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a bright vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic notes will refresh the palate between bites of the creamy corn dish.
  • Match with Refreshing White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the corn casserole's creamy texture. These wines provide a crisp, clean counterpoint to the dish's rich cheese and buttery flavors, creating a delightful dining experience.
  • Boost with Herbal Beer Pairing: Choose a craft wheat beer or a light Belgian-style ale to complement the casserole's cheesy, creamy profile. The beer's subtle hoppy notes and effervescence will cut through the richness and add an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal.

New Ideas For Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

  • Spicy Southwest Corn Bake: Add diced jalapeños, green chilies, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a fiery kick. Mix in some black beans and diced bell peppers to boost the southwestern flavor profile.
  • Herb-Infused Corn Casserole: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, and chives into the creamy base. Swap half the cheddar with crumbled goat cheese for a tangy, aromatic variation.
  • Bacon and Onion Corn Casserole: Crisp up some bacon bits and caramelized onions to fold into the mixture. Sprinkle the bacon on top before baking for an extra crunch and smoky flavor.
  • Mediterranean-Style Corn Casserole: Blend in sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a touch of dried oregano. Top with a light dusting of breadcrumbs for a golden, crispy finish.

Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, you can easily substitute fresh corn with frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain the corn completely before mixing it into the creamy base to prevent excess moisture.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The basic recipe is not spicy, but you can add jalapeños or green chilies to give it a kick. If you prefer mild flavors, simply skip those optional ingredients and stick to the original recipe.

  • What type of cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar and Parmesan are recommended, but you can experiment with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère. Just ensure they melt well and complement the corn’s sweet flavor.

  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole mixture, pour it into the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold dish.

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Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort meets indulgence in this irresistible Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole, a Southern-style side dish that promises pure creamy satisfaction. Melted cheese, sweet corn, and rich cream cheese blend into a crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll crave at every family gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) frozen or canned corn (drained)
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Dairy and Flavor Enhancers:

  • ¼ cup (57 grams) unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Spicy Addition:

  • ¼ cup (38 grams) diced jalapeños or green chilies

Instructions

  1. Warm the kitchen oven to 375°F and generously coat a casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. In a deep saucepan, gently melt butter over low temperature, creating a silky base. Whisk in cream cheese until the mixture becomes completely smooth and uniform. Incorporate sour cream, whisking continuously to blend the dairy components. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring each element is evenly distributed.
  3. Introduce corn kernels into the creamy foundation, folding gently to maintain the mixture’s delicate texture. Gradually integrate cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until a harmonious blend develops. For an optional zesty twist, fold in finely chopped jalapeños or green chilies.
  4. Transfer the luxurious corn mixture into the prepared casserole dish, using a spatula to create an even surface. Sprinkle an additional layer of shredded cheddar across the top, which will transform into a golden, crispy layer during baking.
  5. Position the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for visual cues of doneness: bubbling edges, melted cheese, and a slightly bronzed top surface indicating caramelization.
  6. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes, enabling the ingredients to settle and flavors to meld. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, herbal finish before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust butter temperature carefully to prevent burning when melting, ensuring a smooth base for the creamy sauce.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by using roasted garlic instead of powder for a deeper, more robust taste profile.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda or monterey jack to customize the casserole’s richness and depth.
  • Reduce dairy content by substituting half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version that maintains creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour (or more)
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 282
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Liam is the voice behind many of Craft Meats’ most flavorful features. With roots in Dublin’s smoky barbecue scene and a culinary degree from the Dublin Institute of Technology, he brings time-tested cooking techniques to life. 

His training at Ballymaloe Cookery School sharpened his farm-to-table approach, giving him a deep respect for every ingredient he writes about.

He’s not about overcomplicating the process, just helping you cook meat that’s worth talking about. When he’s not writing or grilling, he’s out foraging or nerding out on regional spice blends to add to his next recipe.

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