Oh my goodness, let me tell you about cream cheese corn casserole! This dish is like a warm hug in a baking dish—so creamy, so delicious! Every time I make it, I’m reminded of family gatherings where it was *always* the star of the table. The way the cheese melds with the sweet corn and buttery goodness creates a flavor explosion that’s just heavenly. I remember my aunt would make it for every holiday, and we’d all fight for the last scoop! It’s a classic side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive potluck. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups corn kernels – You can use fresh, frozen, or canned; just make sure to drain if using canned!
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Let it sit out for a bit to get nice and creamy; it makes mixing so much easier!
- 1/2 cup sour cream – This adds an extra layer of creaminess that you won’t want to skip!
- 1/4 cup butter, melted – The butter brings everything together beautifully, so don’t skimp on it!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I love using sharp cheddar for that added flavor punch!
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions – These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish!
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Because who doesn’t love a hint of garlic in their casserole?
- 1/2 tsp salt – Just enough to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – A little kick to balance the richness!
How to Prepare Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all crave!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and let’s get to work! Start by adding the corn kernels, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter. I like to use a spatula to really get in there and combine everything until it’s nice and smooth. Once that’s looking good, throw in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. Trust me, the aroma will be divine!
Transfer and Bake
Next, transfer that creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually go for a 9×9 inch dish, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Spread it out evenly, and pop it in the oven! Bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and bubbly—oh, it’s going to look so inviting!
Cooling and Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This little cooling time helps it set a bit, making it easier to scoop. Serve it warm, and get ready for everyone to rave about how delicious it is! Pair it up with your favorite main dishes, and enjoy every creamy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation – you can whip this up in just 15 minutes!
- Creamy texture that everyone will adore – it’s like a little bowl of comfort!
- Versatile as a side dish – perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts!
- Simple ingredients – you probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- Always a crowd-pleaser – it’s hard to resist that cheesy, corn-filled goodness!
Tips for Success
- Softened cream cheese is key – Make sure to take the cream cheese out of the fridge ahead of time. It should be soft and spreadable for easy mixing. Trust me, nobody wants lumpy casserole!
- Mix thoroughly – When combining the ingredients, really take your time to mix until everything is smooth. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!
- Grease your baking dish – Don’t skip this step! A little butter or cooking spray will help the casserole come out easily and prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness – Keep an eye on it while baking! You want that lovely golden color, and it should be bubbly around the edges. If it’s not there yet, give it a few more minutes.
- Let it cool – I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting it cool for a few minutes makes serving easier and helps the flavors settle. Plus, you won’t burn your tongue!
Variations
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice, toss in some diced jalapeños for a zesty kick! They add a nice crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess.
- Bacon lovers rejoice: Crumbled cooked bacon is a fantastic addition. The smoky flavor complements the sweet corn so well. Just sprinkle some on top before baking for that crispy goodness!
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish. Chop them finely and mix them in for a fresh twist!
- Cheese overload: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of feta can really elevate the flavor profile.
- Make it a meal: Turn this side dish into a main by adding cooked chicken or turkey. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and create a hearty casserole!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just let your cream cheese corn casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-5 days. If you’re like me and want to savor it later, you can also freeze it! Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and pop it in the freezer. It should be good for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:
- From the fridge: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to get that top nice and bubbly again!
- From the freezer: It’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Once thawed, follow the same steps as above.
Microwave reheating is also an option if you’re in a hurry! Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s heated to your liking. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, I always think it’s good to know what we’re putting into our bodies, right? But keep in mind that these nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a general breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup) of this delicious cream cheese corn casserole:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 6g
So, whether you’re counting calories or just enjoying a delicious side dish, this casserole packs a punch of flavor without overwhelming your diet. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese corn casserole a day in advance. Just mix everything together, transfer it to the baking dish, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and pop it in the oven! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with cream cheese corn casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with so many dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken, meatloaf, or even a hearty steak. It’s also fantastic with a fresh salad or as part of a holiday feast. Trust me, it’s a versatile side that complements a variety of flavors!
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Definitely! Frozen corn works like a charm in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it in. It’ll save you a bit of prep time and still taste amazing!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbly, and you can see some deliciously cheesy goodness around the edges. If you give it a little jiggle, it should be set in the middle—not too jiggly! If it’s still wobbly, pop it back in for a few more minutes.
Can I add other ingredients to customize it?
Absolutely! This casserole is super forgiving. Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins like diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or even a sprinkle of your favorite spices. It’s all about making it your own!
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream cheese corn casserole is a creamy and delicious side dish made with corn and cream cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cream cheese corn casserole, corn casserole, side dish, vegetarian casserole
