Description:
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners. This casserole combines sweet corn with a velvety cream cheese mixture, topped with a buttery, slightly crispy golden layer. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that will quickly become a crowd favorite, with its smooth texture and the balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Origin:
Corn casseroles are a popular dish in Southern and Midwest American cooking. They are often made with corn kernels, cornbread, or cornmeal. This version with cream cheese adds extra richness and flavor, making it a more decadent take on a traditional side dish.
Ingredients (Serves 8-10):
- Canned sweet corn: 2 cans (15 oz each), drained (or 4 cups frozen corn, thawed)
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (softened)
- Sour cream: ½ cup
- Butter: 4 tbsp (melted)
- Cornbread mix: 1 package (8.5 oz)
- Sugar: 2 tbsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Pepper: ¼ tsp
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (optional, for topping)
- Chopped green onions: 2 tbsp (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the drained sweet corn, softened cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, cornbread mix, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the corn mixture.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy around the edges.
Step 4: Optional Toppings
- If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a burst of freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Corn Options: If you prefer, you can use fresh corn off the cob or a mix of frozen and canned corn for added texture and flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. You can microwave it for 20-30 seconds to soften it if needed.
- Texture: For a creamier texture, you can stir in a little extra sour cream or a splash of milk.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day ahead. Simply cover and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, but add a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Recommendations:
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs perfectly with roast meats like turkey, chicken, or ham. It also complements other hearty sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing.
- Pairing: Serve alongside a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition (Per Serving, 1/8 of recipe):
- Calories: ~230
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and will definitely become a favorite among family and friends.
