Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a cheesy corn casserole that warms both the heart and the home. I recently prepared this Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. As I placed it on the dining table, the golden crust glistened enticingly, and the rich aroma filled the room. Everyone eagerly dove in, and the compliments flowed as my family savored each creamy, cheesy bite. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a staple in our home. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up and sure to satisfy, this casserole is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 sleeve (about 40) Ritz crackers, crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, sour cream, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
3. Spread the Mixture: Spread the corn mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, making sure it’s smooth on top.
4. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers until fine crumbs form. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the corn mixture, creating a crunchy topping.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy delight!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a side dish for family dinners.
• Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added color.
• Offer with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Ideal for potlucks or holiday gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more easily into the mixture, resulting in a smoother casserole.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet flavor, as the corn adds natural sweetness.
3. Add Protein: For a heartier dish, consider mixing in cooked chicken or bacon pieces to elevate the casserole.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
5. Test for Doneness: If the top isn’t golden brown after the baking time, broil it for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese for added flavor and gooeyness.
• Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed corn chips.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the corn mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a festive meal.
• Pair with BBQ ribs or grilled sausages for a summer cookout.
• Offer as a side dish during Thanksgiving or holiday feasts.
• Perfect with a hearty stew or chili on a chilly evening.
• Great for brunch when served with scrambled eggs and bacon.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn! Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
You can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to cream cheese.

3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

5. Is this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain meat.

6. What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with proteins like chicken, turkey, or pork, and also complements salads and roasted vegetables.

7. Can I add meat to the casserole?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage can be mixed in for extra flavor.

8. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals.

9. Is it possible to reduce the calories?
You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream to lower the calorie count.

10. Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, feel free to use any type of cracker you prefer for the topping, such as saltines or goldfish.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings families together. Its creamy texture, delightful crunch from the cracker topping, and sweet corn flavor make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply looking to enjoy a comforting meal at home, this casserole checks all the boxes. With its straightforward preparation and mouthwatering taste, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious, cheesy delight!

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