If you’ve ever wished for a side dish that’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with sweet corn flavor, then this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a perfectly balanced medley of whole kernel and creamed corn blended with luscious cream cheese and a touch of butter and milk, baked until bubbly and golden. This casserole is simple to make yet delivers a rich, velvety texture and a warm, homey vibe that your whole family will adore. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual weeknight meal, this dish shines every time and makes a memorable addition to any spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a creamy masterpiece. Each one plays a vital role, from adding moisture and richness to providing just the right hint of seasoning and texture.
- Whole kernel corn (2 cans, 15 oz each): Provides the fresh, crisp corn texture that makes this casserole pop.
- Creamed corn (1 can, 15 oz): Brings a smooth, velvety base to the dish, blending perfectly with the cream cheese.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened and cubed): Adds richness and that signature creamy body to the casserole.
- Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Enhances the flavor with a subtle, indulgent hint and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Keeps the mixture moist and lends a light silkiness to the overall texture.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): Just a touch to balance the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates the natural sweetness and deepens all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle warmth and complexity without overpowering the dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional for topping): Adds a golden, cheesy crust that’s irresistibly savory.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional for garnish): Offers a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy casserole.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s at the perfect temperature as you mix your ingredients. Meanwhile, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and help create a golden crust on the casserole’s edges.
Step 2: Mix the Corn Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, pour in both the whole kernel corn and the creamed corn. Add the softened, cubed cream cheese along with melted butter and milk. If you want a hint of sweetness, sprinkle in the tablespoon of sugar. Season with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor. Stir everything together vigorously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes beautifully smooth yet retains some corn texture.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour your luscious corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. For an extra layer of deliciousness, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top if you like. Then, pop the casserole into the oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, golden surface that signals it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Step 4: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, take the casserole out and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes — this helps it firm up just enough to serve nicely. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions to add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that dances beautifully with the creamy corn.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Although the green onions bring lovely freshness, you can also get creative with garnishes. Try crispy bacon bits, a dash of smoked paprika, or even toasted breadcrumbs for a pleasing crunch. These add visual appeal and can brighten up the flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe works wonderfully alongside classic mains like roast chicken, barbecue ribs, or even a simple grilled steak. Its creamy texture and mild sweetness act as the perfect cozy counterbalance to smokier or more robust dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish for casual gatherings, or spoon it into small, elegant ramekins to impress at dinner parties. You can also stuff it into bell peppers or use it as a topping for baked potatoes for a fresh twist everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy creation, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated portions even better the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months, and you’ll have a convenient comfort dish ready whenever you crave it.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your cream cheese corn casserole is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps the texture creamy while restoring its inviting golden top.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese, butter, and milk with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese, margarine, and plant-based milk to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
Is it necessary to use both whole kernel and creamed corn?
Using both adds depth to the texture and flavor. Whole kernel corn provides body and bite, while creamed corn adds smooth creaminess. Substituting only one could affect the balance, but it can still work in a pinch.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or even cooked bacon can be stirred in to add layers of flavor and texture, making the casserole even more interesting.
How long does it take to prepare from start to finish?
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 35 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 45 minutes for a warm, satisfying dish on your table.
Can I make this casserole vegan?
With some thoughtful substitutions like vegan cream cheese, plant butter, and non-dairy milk, you can transform this dish into a delicious vegan option that still caters to that creamy comfort food craving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your family or friends with a side dish that feels both special and comforting, the Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its creamy texture, sweet corn flavors, and easy prep make it a go-to for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with toppings and add-ins—you’re going to love how this dish brings warmth and joy to your table.
Print
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Cheese Corn Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. Featuring a smooth blend of whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and softened cream cheese baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping, this casserole offers a rich texture and a hint of savory sweetness. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened and cubed cream cheese, melted butter, and milk. Add sugar if you’d like a touch of sweetness, then season with salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour and Top. Pour the creamy corn mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a melty, flavorful crust.
- Bake. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly throughout and the top turns a golden brown color.
- Cool and Garnish. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions for added color and a fresh bite, if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, consider adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat version.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to help it blend smoothly.
- This casserole pairs nicely with roasted meats and can be served as a decadent side or a standalone vegetarian main dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to 3 days.
