Name: Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
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); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Looking for a comforting and flavorful side dish that will steal the spotlight at any meal? Look no further than this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole recipe. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweetness of corn and the sharpness of cheddar cheese, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings.

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)

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 2-quart baking dish to prepare for the deliciousness that’s about to unfold.
In a medium pot over low heat, melt the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the milk until the mixture is velvety and well combined.
Add the salt, black pepper, thawed corn, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling a bit adventurous and want to add a kick) to the creamy mixture. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

Pour the delectable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, it’s time to add a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese on top, because let’s be honest, you can never have too much cheese!
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it until it reaches golden brown perfection and the cheesy goodness is bubbling away, which should take around 20 minutes.
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Then, get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy, corn-filled delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with fresh herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the casserole for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pair with your favorite mains: This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even barbecue ribs. It’s a versatile side that complements a wide range of flavors.
Serve alongside a crisp salad: Balance out the richness of the casserole by serving it alongside a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing. The combination of textures and flavors will make for a well-rounded meal.

Make it a brunch favorite: Elevate your brunch spread by serving this casserole alongside crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and freshly baked biscuits. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your brunch guests.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate leftovers promptly: If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat with care: When reheating the casserole, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freeze for later: This casserole can also be frozen for longer storage. Once cooled, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the reheating instructions mentioned above.
Revive leftovers creatively: Transform leftover casserole into a delicious breakfast hash by sautéing it with diced potatoes and onions until golden and crispy. Serve it topped with a fried egg for a hearty morning meal.

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FAQs:

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for frozen corn for convenience, you can definitely use fresh corn if it’s in season. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and proceed with the recipe as directed. Just keep in mind that fresh corn may require slightly less cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cream Cheese Corn Casserole ahead of time to save time on busy days. Simply follow all the steps up to pouring the mixture into the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Is it necessary to use sharp cheddar cheese, or can I use a different type of cheese?

While sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold flavor to the casserole, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Gruyere would work well in this recipe. Feel free to get creative and mix and match cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole gluten-free by ensuring that all the ingredients you use are gluten-free. Check the labels on the cream cheese, butter, milk, and any other ingredients you plan to use to verify that they are gluten-free. Additionally, be mindful of any seasonings or spices you add, as some may contain gluten. As long as you use gluten-free ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious casserole worry-free!

Conclusion:

With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and cheesy goodness, this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready to delight your taste buds with every irresistible bite!

📖 Recipe: