Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

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Introduction:

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, creamy, and flavorful side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the smoothness of cream cheese. This comfort food is a favorite at many family gatherings, holidays, and weeknight dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering casserole that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, as it can be paired with almost any main course, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or just a cozy dinner at home, this creamy casserole is bound to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) of whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar (optional, based on sweetness preference)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers (optional, for topping)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the melted butter, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.

Step 4: Gently fold in the drained cans of corn into the mixture, making sure the corn is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you’d like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crushed crackers on top for added texture and flavor.

Variation:

For a slightly different twist on the classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole, try one of these variations:

  1. Add bacon: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the casserole for a savory and smoky flavor.
  2. Use different cheese: Experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
  3. Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a little heat.
  4. Sweet corn casserole: For an even sweeter version, add a bit more sugar or honey to enhance the sweetness of the corn.

COOKING Note:

  • If you want a golden, crispy top, make sure to broil the casserole for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
  • If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
  • For an even creamier texture, you can use cream cheese with a higher fat content or add a small amount of milk to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

  • Serve alongside roast chicken or grilled pork chops for a delicious and well-rounded meal.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
  • For a holiday dinner, this casserole goes well with turkey or ham, making it a fantastic side dish option for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Tips:

  • Creamier consistency: For an even smoother casserole, you can use a food processor to puree the corn before mixing it with the other ingredients.
  • Make ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you are ready to bake it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before popping it into the oven.
  • Customization: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar or add some honey for a touch of natural sweetness.
  • Toppings: Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings like crispy fried onions, chopped parsley, or extra cheese to customize the casserole to your liking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings

Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned? Yes, frozen corn can be used in place of canned corn. Just be sure to thaw it before using it in the recipe.

  2. Can I make this casserole in advance? Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If making in advance, bake it for an additional 10-15 minutes.

  3. Can I freeze Cream Cheese Corn Casserole? Yes, you can freeze it. Just assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.

  4. Is this casserole gluten-free? The recipe is naturally gluten-free unless you add a topping like crushed crackers. To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free crackers or skip the topping.

Conclusion:

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that will soon become a favorite in your recipe collection. It’s easy to make, can be customized to your taste, and is the perfect side dish to complement almost any main course. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones and savor every bite!

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