If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, creamy, and always a crowd-pleaser, Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the answer! This dish takes classic corn casserole to a whole new level with the extra richness of cream cheese and a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll be dreaming about long after the last bite. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or simply want to jazz up weeknight dinner, this cozy, golden casserole brings a touch of indulgence and a whole lot of flavor to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cream Cheese Corn Casserole lies in its simple but magical ingredient list. Each item is carefully chosen to deliver layers of creaminess, sweetness, and just the right balance of savory notes. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a tip for every star player in the dish!
- Whole Kernel Corn (2 cans, drained): Gives the casserole its sweet, juicy pops of corn in every bite—use high-quality canned corn for the best flavor.
- Cream-Style Corn (1 can): Adds a creamy, slightly sweet base that blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The secret to luscious, velvety texture—let it come to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides richness and helps the casserole bake up golden around the edges.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Keeps everything smooth and brings the perfect consistency to your casserole.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon): Just a touch to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, without making it a dessert.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle savory note that rounds out the flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out the flavors and balancing the sweetness.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle kick that brightens up the dish—freshly ground is best!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, optional): For those who love a cheesy top and extra gooeyness—highly recommended!
- Chopped Green Onions (1/4 cup, optional): Adds color and a fresh bite—sprinkle some on top for a pop of green.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F. This gives you plenty of time to prep your ingredients while the oven warms up to the perfect temperature for baking your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole to bubbly, golden perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, milk, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is silky smooth and the cream cheese is fully incorporated—no lumps allowed!
Step 3: Add Cheese and Green Onions (If Using)
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, now’s the time to fold in that shredded cheddar cheese and a handful of chopped green onions. They melt into the casserole as it bakes, adding depth and pops of color.
Step 4: Pour Into Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch (or similar size) baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour your prepared mixture into the dish, smoothing the top gently with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are just turning golden and the center is hot and bubbling. The aroma at this point is absolutely irresistible!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This little rest helps it set up perfectly, making it easier to scoop and serve—plus, it gives you a moment to appreciate how delicious it looks!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions, fresh chives, or even a little more shredded cheddar on top right before serving makes your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole look irresistible and adds a final burst of flavor and color.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, glazed ham, or turkey—making it a must for holiday spreads. For an everyday dinner, try it alongside grilled veggies or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon individual servings into ramekins for a dinner party-worthy presentation, or serve it family-style in a rustic baking dish. You can even top it with crispy fried onions or diced jalapeños for a fun twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Simply transfer the cooled Cream Cheese Corn Casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—making it a fantastic dish to prep ahead for busy weeks or second helpings.
Freezing
Good news: this casserole freezes like a dream! Just let it cool completely, wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop portions into a microwave-safe dish and warm in 30-second bursts, or cover the entire casserole with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through. A splash of milk can bring back its creamy texture if needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have fresh or frozen corn on hand, just substitute an equal amount for the canned whole kernel corn. For frozen corn, thaw and drain before using for best texture.
Is Cream Cheese Corn Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, since it doesn’t include flour or breadcrumbs. Always double-check your ingredient labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble Cream Cheese Corn Casserole up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just let it come slightly to room temperature while the oven preheats.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a little heat, stir in finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper before baking. You can also top the finished casserole with sliced fresh chilies for a colorful, spicy finish.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, try using an equal amount of mascarpone or a thick Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. The texture will change slightly, but the dish will still be deliciously creamy.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be surprised if Cream Cheese Corn Casserole becomes your new go-to side dish for holidays, potlucks, and cozy family dinners. It’s rich, satisfying, and so easy—give it a try and share the comfort with the people you love!
Print
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, cheesy corn casserole combining whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, and softened cream cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for holidays or everyday meals, with optional additions like cheddar cheese and green onions to enhance flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 (15 oz) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can cream-style corn
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, milk, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions to add extra flavor and texture to the casserole.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch or similarly sized baking dish to prevent sticking and pour the corn mixture evenly into the dish.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and edges turn slightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow it to set before serving warm.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños to the mixture before baking.
- This dish can be made a day ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a holiday meal spread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scoop
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
