Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s one of my absolute favorite times of the year, filled with family, laughter, and, of course, delicious food. This year, I’m excited to share my go-to corn dish that always steals the spotlight on our holiday table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I made it; my uncle, who’s a bit of a corn connoisseur, couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s the perfect complement to turkey and stuffing, and trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. This corn dish is definitely a must-have for your Thanksgiving menu!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (you can use frozen, but fresh is best for that sweet crunch)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty kick)
- 1/4 cup butter (you can’t go wrong with butter, right?)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, of course!)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for a little spice)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (to brighten it up and add color)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your dish will be ready to go as soon as you finish mixing everything.
- Next, grab a large pot and melt the butter over medium heat. The smell of melting butter is just heavenly!
- Once the butter is melted, toss in the fresh corn kernels and cook them for about 5 minutes. You want them to get nice and tender but still have a bit of crunch.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together and let it cook for another 5 minutes. The flavors will start to meld beautifully!
- After that, it’s time to transfer this creamy corn mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bite is delicious.
- Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’re looking for it to be bubbly and slightly golden on top. It’ll smell amazing, so get ready!
- Once it’s out of the oven, don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. It adds a lovely touch and a pop of color!
And there you have it! A creamy, dreamy corn dish that’s bound to be a hit at your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, rich cream, and savory Parmesan creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time, leaving you more moments to savor with family and friends.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This corn dish is always a hit at Thanksgiving gatherings, appealing to kids and adults alike!
- Versatile Side: It pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or any main dish, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table.
- Comfort Food: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness create that warm, comforting feeling that everyone loves during the holidays.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance, making your Thanksgiving prep a breeze!
Tips for Success
To ensure your corn dish turns out perfectly, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, always opt for fresh corn kernels when possible; they bring such a vibrant sweetness that frozen just can’t match. If you do use frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture for the best results. Next, don’t be shy with the seasoning! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Want to take it up a notch? Feel free to add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully. And remember, if you’re feeling adventurous, experimenting with different cheeses can really elevate this dish! Enjoy the process and make it your own!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize this corn dish! For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. If you love the flavor of herbs, try mixing in some thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. Feeling adventurous? Swap the Parmesan cheese for cheddar or even a tangy feta for a whole new flavor profile. You can also sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies—perfect for sneaking in some extra nutrients! Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add more ingredients. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy corn dish is such a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread! It pairs wonderfully with classic roasted turkey, making that holiday meal feel complete. The richness of the corn balances beautifully with the savory flavor of the turkey. If you’re serving ham, this dish complements its sweetness perfectly, creating a delicious contrast. For sides, consider adding mashed potatoes or green bean casserole to round out the meal. And don’t forget about stuffing! The corn’s creamy texture will be a lovely contrast alongside your favorite stuffing. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this corn dish; it enhances any main course or side, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving table!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. The following are typical nutritional values for one serving (1 cup) of this delicious corn dish:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 6g
As always, feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs and enjoy this delightful dish at your Thanksgiving feast!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! While fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture, frozen corn is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture in your dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the corn mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven right before serving. This makes for a stress-free Thanksgiving!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the dish may not be as rich and creamy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover corn dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through—just be careful not to overcook it!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even some spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you add more ingredients!
Corn for Thanksgiving Recipes: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious corn dish perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add corn kernels and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh corn for better flavor.
- You can add bacon for extra taste.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: corn for thanksgiving recipes
