This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole combines sweet corn with rich cream cheese for a side dish everyone loves. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for holiday meals or family dinners. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this creamy, cheesy casserole a go-to recipe that always gets compliments.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole fits any occasion - from Thanksgiving dinner to summer cookouts. The cream cheese makes it extra rich and smooth, while optional jalapeños add just enough kick. You can make it ahead to save time on busy days. It travels well for potlucks and reheats perfectly. Best of all, it uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
What You'll Need
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened - makes the casserole creamy and rich
- Butter: 4 tablespoons - adds flavor and richness
- Milk: 1/3 cup whole milk - helps make the sauce smooth
- Corn: 18 ounces frozen sweet corn, thawed
- Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon salt, fresh black pepper to taste
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar for topping
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños for heat
How to Make It
- Get Started
- Heat oven to 350°F. Let cream cheese soften on counter. Thaw corn completely.
- Make the Sauce
- Melt cream cheese and butter in pot over low heat. Stir in milk until smooth. Add salt and pepper.
- Add Corn
- Mix in thawed corn and jalapeños if using. Stir until well coated with sauce.
- Bake Until Bubbly
- Pour into 8x8 baking dish. Top with cheddar. Bake 20 minutes until hot and cheese melts.
Perfect for Holidays
This casserole makes holiday cooking easier. You can prepare it a day ahead - just cover and keep in the fridge, then bake when needed. It fits perfectly with turkey, ham, or any holiday main dish. Double the recipe for bigger gatherings using a 9x13 pan and adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time.
Ways to Change It Up
Try different add-ins to make this recipe your own. Add diced bell peppers for color, green chiles for mild heat, or crispy bacon bits on top. Switch the cheddar for pepper jack cheese if you like it spicy. For a Mexican twist, add a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Just keep the basic cream cheese sauce the same for the right texture.
Great for Sharing
This casserole travels well, making it perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. The cream cheese keeps it from drying out, and it tastes great warm or at room temperature. Take it in the baking dish with foil on top. If needed, pop it in the host's oven for 10 minutes to warm through.
Slow Cooker Version
No oven space? Make this in your slow cooker instead. Combine everything except the cheddar cheese in the cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring once halfway. Add the cheese on top for the last 30 minutes. Keep it on warm during parties - it stays creamy for hours.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if needed to keep it creamy. For best results, heat just what you'll eat rather than the whole dish. This casserole doesn't freeze well, so plan to enjoy it within a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned corn?
Drain two 15-oz cans really well. Frozen tastes fresher but canned works fine. Some folks mix both kinds for texture. If using fresh, need about 4 cups cut off cob. Just make sure corn's not too wet or dish gets soupy.
- How do I make it spicy?
Start with 1 spoon chopped pickled jalapeños. Can always add more but can't take away! Fresh jalapeños work too - take seeds out for medium heat. Some folks add dash cayenne or hot sauce. Green chiles give nice mild heat.
- Can I make it ahead?
Mix up night before, keep in fridge covered tight. Let warm up bit before baking or middle stays cold. Can keep all ingredients ready, mix just before cooking. Some folks make double batch - freeze one for later. Just don't add topping till ready to bake.
- Need dairy-free version?
Try dairy-free cream cheese and cheese substitutes. Texture's different but still good. Coconut milk makes it creamy too. Some folks use pureed cashews for richness. Just check all ingredients - dairy hides in strange places!
Some More Ideas
Love creamy sides? Try corn quiche for breakfast next time. Or make jalapeño popper dip when you want some heat. Even grilled corn with special butter brings these same good flavors!