Description
This creamy and comforting Cream Cheese Corn Casserole combines the richness of cream cheese and butter with sweet corn and sharp cheddar cheese. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect side dish for family dinners or holiday meals, offering a velvety texture and a hint of spice from optional cayenne pepper.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (18 oz) bag frozen corn, thawed
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Topping
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Melt Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium pot over low heat, melt the cream cheese and butter together, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. This creates the creamy base for the casserole.
- Add Milk: Stir in the milk gradually until the mixture turns creamy and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Mix Seasonings and Corn: Add salt, black pepper, thawed corn, and optional cayenne pepper to the creamy mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated for balanced flavor.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the combined corn mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, indicating it is heated through and ready to serve.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this comforting corn casserole!
Notes
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth melting.
- Thaw the frozen corn completely to avoid excess water in the casserole.
- Cayenne pepper is optional; adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor, or substitute with your favorite cheese if desired.
- This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as part of a festive holiday spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
