Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole 🌽

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting side dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds, this Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the perfect choice. This casserole is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s packed with cheesy goodness and the rich, sweet flavor of corn. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese makes it irresistibly creamy, while the Jiffy corn muffin mix gives it a slightly sweet and fluffy texture. I’ve made this dish countless times, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s the perfect addition to a holiday feast, a Sunday dinner, or even a weeknight meal when you need something comforting and satisfying. Every bite is packed with the right balance of flavors, and it pairs beautifully with any main course. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, if desired)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or deep casserole dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, and sour cream. Stir until the cream cheese is mostly blended into the mixture. Some small lumps of cream cheese are okay and will melt during baking, contributing to the creaminess of the casserole.

Step 3: Add the Corn Muffin Mix

Add the Jiffy corn muffin mix and eggs to the bowl. Stir everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the casserole too dense.

Step 4: Fold in the Shredded Cheese

Once the corn muffin mix is incorporated, gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. This will give the casserole its rich, cheesy flavor throughout.

Step 5: Pour into the Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. If you like a cheesy top, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too much before the center is set, you can cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Step 7: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 350 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• As a side dish: This casserole pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken and turkey to grilled steak or pork chops.
• With a salad: Serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• For brunch: This casserole makes a great addition to any brunch spread. Pair it with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a satisfying brunch.
• As a main dish for vegetarians: For a lighter meal, serve this casserole as the main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a fruit salad.
• With extra cheese: Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese before baking for a cheesier version of this creamy casserole.

Additional Tips

1. Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat.
2. Use full-fat cream cheese: For a richer, creamier texture, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
3. Add cooked bacon or sausage: For a savory twist, crumble cooked bacon or sausage into the casserole mixture before baking.
4. Make it ahead of time: Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
5. Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian option: Make the casserole vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip any meat additions.
• Spicy corn casserole: Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture to give it a spicy kick.
• Gluten-free version: To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free cornbread mix or flour instead of regular Jiffy corn muffin mix.
• Cheesy garlic version: Mix in some minced garlic and extra garlic powder for a cheesy garlic corn casserole.
• Add green chilies: For an extra Tex-Mex twist, fold in a can of diced green chilies for a zesty, flavorful addition.

Serving Suggestions

• With grilled meats: This casserole is perfect alongside grilled chicken, pork, or beef. It’s rich enough to balance the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
• As a Thanksgiving side: Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce for a comforting Thanksgiving spread.
• For holiday potlucks: Bring this casserole to your next potluck—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
• With chili: Pair it with a hearty bowl of chili for a filling and satisfying meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Prepare the casserole, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from becoming too dry.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap.

2. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of canned. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.

3. How do I make the casserole spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a spicy twist.

4. Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. It will add a slightly tangy flavor but still provide the creamy texture.

5. Can I add meat to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or even ground beef to the casserole for extra protein.

6. Is this casserole gluten-free?
The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can substitute a gluten-free corn muffin mix to make it suitable for those who are gluten-intolerant.

7. Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?
Yes, you can make this casserole in a smaller dish. Just adjust the baking time, as the casserole may cook faster in a smaller pan.

8. How do I make the top crispier?
To get a crispy top, sprinkle extra cheese on top of the casserole before baking and bake until golden and bubbly.

9. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh corn kernels. Just cook the corn beforehand and make sure to drain any excess liquid.

10. How long does this casserole last?
This casserole lasts in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, preparing a family meal, or looking for something comforting on a cold day, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. It’s easy to prepare, deliciously creamy, and has just the right amount of cheesy goodness. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love, and the best part is that it’s perfect for leftovers! Try it today and add it to your list of go-to recipes for every meal.

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