Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Casserole Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, and cream cheese. Stir together until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and no lumps remain. This creates a smooth and creamy base for the casserole.
• Add the melted butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk to the mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
• Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Fold in the cornmeal (if using) and the beaten egg. The egg helps bind the casserole together and gives it a fluffy texture when baked.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

• Pour the corn mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the middle. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
• If you like a crispy top, you can turn the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to lightly brown the top of the casserole. Just be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, if desired, for added color and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

1. Add a Crunchy Topping: For a bit of texture, top your casserole with crushed cornflakes or bread crumbs before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
2. Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also stir in some diced green chilies for extra flavor.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for holiday meals or busy weeknights.
4. Use Fresh Corn: If it’s corn season, substitute fresh corn kernels for the canned corn. Just blanch the corn for a few minutes and cut the kernels off the cob to add a fresh, sweet flavor to the casserole.

Why Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the Perfect Side Dish

• Versatile: It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main dishes, such as roast chicken, grilled steaks, barbecue ribs, or even fried chicken. It’s also a great side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
• Rich and Comforting: The creamy texture and comforting flavors of corn and cheese make it a go-to side for anyone craving warmth and indulgence.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal effort and a short prep time, you can have a flavorful casserole ready in no time. It’s a great option for cooks of all skill levels.

Conclusion: A Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and savory that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a gathering, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress. With its simple ingredients and rich, satisfying flavor, it’s no wonder that this casserole is a beloved classic. Try it today, and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and flavor in every bite!