If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish, this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Creamy, slightly sweet, and baked to golden perfection, it brings together simple ingredients into one irresistibly rich casserole that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any family dinner. Every bite melts in your mouth, showcasing the luxurious blend of cream cheese and corn that makes this dish truly special. Once you try this recipe, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe box, bringing warmth and smiles around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of texture and flavor. These pantry-friendly items come together effortlessly, helping you whip up a dish that’s both creamy and comforting in no time.
- Whole kernel corn (2 cans, 15 oz each): Provides sweet, slightly crunchy bursts for texture and vibrant color.
- Creamed corn (1 can, 15 oz): Adds a silky, luscious base that ties the casserole together.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened and cubed): The star ingredient that delivers richness and smooth creaminess.
- Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Enhances flavor and adds depth with its subtle, creamy notes.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the casserole just enough to keep it moist and succulent.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): A tiny touch to balance the savory with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): Tops the casserole with melty, golden goodness.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): Fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion crunch.
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly heated and ready when your casserole mixture is combined. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it thoroughly to ensure your casserole releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cubed cream cheese, melted butter, milk, sugar (if you’re adding that hint of sweetness), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together with care—at first, the cream cheese might seem chunky, but keep mixing until the mixture is smooth and creamy, promising a luscious texture once baked.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour your creamy corn mixture into the prepared baking dish. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for that signature bubbly, golden crust. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and beautifully golden on top.
Step 4: Garnish and Cool
Once baked, remove your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows it to set up slightly, making it easier to scoop. If you like, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top to add a fresh pop of color and brightness before serving.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can turn this dish into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Finely chopped green onions add a mild crunch and a fresh, vibrant touch, while a light dusting of paprika or a few sprigs of fresh parsley can elevate the presentation effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with classic comfort food staples. Serve it alongside roasted meats like turkey or ham, or with a fresh, crisp salad for contrast. Mashed potatoes or green beans also complement the creamy, sweet flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties. You can also experiment by adding crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers atop the cheddar before baking, introducing a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries—this casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly to preserve moisture and prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding extra cooking time. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, cover, and freeze using the same timeline.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, covering with foil to avoid drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power, checking and stirring occasionally, to keep that luscious creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will add a wonderful natural sweetness and freshness to the casserole. Just cut the kernels off about 4 ears of corn to match the quantity and lightly cook or steam them before using.
Is cream cheese necessary for this recipe?
The cream cheese is key for the signature creamy richness of the casserole. Without it, you lose that velvety texture and indulgent flavor that makes this dish stand out.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
With some substitutions, yes. Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based milk like almond or oat. Butter can be replaced with a vegan margarine. Keep in mind texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for a bubbly surface around the edges and a golden color on top. It should be hot in the center and gently set rather than runny. A toothpick inserted near the middle should come out mostly clean.
Can I add other ingredients like bacon or jalapeños?
For sure! Adding cooked bacon crumbles brings a smoky depth, while diced jalapeños add a spicy kick. Mix them in with the corn before baking to infuse the casserole with your favorite flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its creamy texture, the subtle sweetness from the corn, and that golden cheesy crust combine for a timeless classic that always satisfies. Whether it’s holiday dinner or a simple weeknight side, this recipe invites you to experience comfort food at its finest. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, comforting side dish featuring whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and smooth cream cheese baked to bubbly perfection with a golden cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it combines creamy, sweet, and savory flavors in an easy-to-make casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened and cubed cream cheese, melted butter, milk, sugar (if desired), salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the prepared corn and cream cheese mixture into the greased baking dish. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish before serving.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, substitute part of the cheddar cheese with pepper jack.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture, or try reduced-fat to lighten it up.
- Drain corn thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Sugar is optional; omit it if you prefer a less sweet dish.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
