If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting dish to serve at your next gathering, this Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese is the perfect choice. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with sweetness, this casserole is loved for its rich texture and ease of preparation. It makes an excellent side dish for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet corn and cream cheese creates a luscious flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just your family, this dish guarantees satisfaction with every bite. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, while the sweetness of the corn is truly comforting.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1 (15-ounce) can of sweet corn, drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can of cream-style corn
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
• Toppings (optional):
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Note: You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and feel free to use frozen corn if fresh is not available. Frozen corn is often just as sweet and flavorful as fresh, making it a suitable alternative for any season. Using high-quality cream cheese will not only enhance the richness of the dish but also contribute to a creamier texture. Look for cream cheese that is full-fat for optimal results, which will yield a more decadent casserole. It’s important to ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor, especially the corn, as the sweetness of the corn is the star of the dish.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even baking and a perfectly set casserole, giving you a golden-brown top.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed, making sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients. This step is crucial as it helps the leavening agent (baking powder) activate evenly.
3. Add the drained sweet corn and cream-style corn to the dry mixture. Stir until the corn is evenly coated, ensuring every bite is flavorful. The cream-style corn will add moisture and sweetness to the mix.
4. In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth. You can use a hand mixer for a creamier consistency, which will help the cream cheese incorporate fully without any lumps. This will create a rich base for the casserole.
5. Mix in the sour cream and then add the eggs, beating until fully combined. This step is crucial, as the eggs provide structure and richness to the casserole, helping it set properly during baking.
6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Do not over-mix; it’s okay if there are small lumps, as this will keep the casserole light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking. Pour the corn mixture into it, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking.
8. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously melty topping that adds flavor and an appealing golden color, enhancing the overall dish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it! A perfectly cooked casserole will be firm yet slightly jiggly in the center.
10. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut into squares. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch, adding a pop of color and flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy yellow of the casserole.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese turns out perfectly, consider these tips: Check out our related guide for more tips on achieving the best texture and flavor.

• For added flavor, you can mix in cooked bacon bits, jalapeños, or diced bell peppers. These additions can elevate the dish, giving it an extra dimension of taste and a bit of heat if desired.
• This dish can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through before serving to preserve its creamy texture and avoid drying out.
• A common mistake is overbaking the casserole, which can dry it out. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick, aiming for a moist but set center. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.

Variations

This corn casserole recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

• For a southwestern twist, add 1 cup of cooked black beans and some diced green chilies. This adds a hearty texture and brings a delightful kick to the dish that pairs well with the sweetness of the corn.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute regular cornmeal with a gluten-free blend. This ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious casserole without worry, making it a great option for gatherings.
• For a richer flavor, swap half of the cream cheese with a flavored cheese like pepper jack or a sharp cheddar. This will impart a unique taste that can tantalize your palate and add a savory depth to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy corn casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roast chicken, or as a hearty side to your holiday table. The richness of the casserole complements the savory profiles of these proteins, making for a satisfying meal. It also complements salads well, such as a fresh Italian Chopped Salad or Cheddar Sour Cream Macaroni Salad. For a comforting meal, enjoy it with a glass of chilled iced tea or lemonade, which will balance the richness of the casserole perfectly. You can also serve it with a dollop of salsa or sour cream on the side for added flavor.

Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese

Recipe by Chef

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

A delightful and comforting dish that is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with sweetness. This casserole is loved for its rich texture and ease of preparation, making it an excellent side dish for holidays, potlucks, or casual dinners.

Course

Dinner

Cuisine

American

Difficulty

Easy

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🍽️

Servings

8

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

50 min

🔥

Calories

350

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 (15-ounce) can of sweet corn, drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can of cream-style corn
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.

3.

Add the drained sweet corn and cream-style corn to the dry mixture. Stir until evenly coated.

4.

In another bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth.

5.

Mix in the sour cream and then add the eggs, beating until fully combined.

6.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.

7.

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the corn mixture into it.

8.

If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

9.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Facts