Introduction:
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the smooth texture of cream cheese. It’s an ideal addition to any family meal, holiday gathering, or potluck.
This casserole is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
The blend of corn, cream cheese, and savory seasonings creates a dish that’s both indulgent and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients:
2 cans (15 oz each) of whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) of cream-style corn
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cornbread mix (or 1/2 cup if you prefer a lighter texture)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
Add cornbread mix: Stir in the cornbread mix until just combined. If you’re using cheese for the topping, you can stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese at this point or leave it for the top.
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is golden on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Add cheese topping (optional): If you like a cheesy top, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Description:
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the ultimate side dish that marries the natural sweetness of corn with the velvety richness of cream cheese. The addition of sour cream and butter gives it a decadent texture, while the cornbread mix helps to bind it all together into a satisfying, hearty casserole. Whether served at a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table with its comfort and flavor.
Tips:
Make it ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. Bake it in the oven when you’re ready to serve (you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge).
For a crispy top: Try adding a topping of crushed crackers (such as Ritz crackers) or breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a spicy kick.
Substitute cream cheese: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
Add bacon: For extra flavor, sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon on top before baking or as a garnish after baking.
Variations:
Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it even heartier by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even chopped spinach.
Cornbread topping: Instead of using cornbread mix in the casserole itself, you can top the casserole with prepared cornbread batter for a more traditional cornbread topping.
Cheesy version: Increase the amount of shredded cheddar cheese or add other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Parmesan for a more cheesy flavor.
For a sweeter twist: Add a tablespoon of sugar or honey for a sweet flavor contrast to the savory ingredients.
Corrections:
Ensure to drain the canned whole kernel corn to avoid extra moisture in the casserole, which could affect the consistency.
If you want a creamier consistency, you can add more sour cream or cream cheese. Adjust the milk if it becomes too thick.
If the top begins to brown too quickly while baking, cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Enjoy:
This creamy, comforting corn casserole is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. Serve alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a hearty salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, it’s a dish that’s always delicious!