Creamy and cheesy, this Corn Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together sweet corn, cream cheese, and muffin mix. Perfect for holidays or any family gathering, this comforting side dish will quickly become a favorite at your table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s an ideal addition to both weeknight dinners and festive feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a hit for both kids and adults.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at Thanksgiving or as a comfort food any night of the week.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to prepare on short notice.
- Customizable Flavor: Add your favorite spices or extra cheese to tailor it to your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Corn Casserole, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and allows the casserole to rise beautifully.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl gives you enough space to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly blending the cream cheese with other wet ingredients.
Ingredients
Creamy and cheesy, this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole brings together sweet corn, cream cheese, and muffin mix for a deliciously comforting side dish.
For the Base
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
For the Corn Mixture
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn (drained)
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 1 (8.5 oz) package corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
Seasoning & Optional Topping
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How to Make Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your casserole does not stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until smooth.
* Add melted butter, sugar, milk, and beaten eggs.
* Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Add Corn
Stir in the drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Incorporate Muffin Mix
Gently fold in the corn muffin mix.
* Be careful not to overmix; this helps maintain a light texture in the casserole.
Step 5: Seasoning
Season with salt and pepper. If desired, add shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm for best results.
This Corn Casserole is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite! Enjoy this hearty side at your next meal!
How to Serve Corn Casserole
Corn casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or as a comforting weeknight side, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Protein
- Roast Chicken – The savory flavors of roast chicken complement the sweetness of the corn casserole beautifully.
- Grilled Steak – A hearty grilled steak pairs well with the creamy texture of this dish, creating a satisfying meal.
Add Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine and the tangy dressing make for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds a light touch to your plate.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Spread some garlic butter on warm bread for a delicious side that everyone loves.
- Buttery Rolls – Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover goodness from your plate.
Include Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts offers a delightful balance to the dish.
- Green Beans Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans topped with almonds provide crunch and freshness.
How to Perfect Corn Casserole
To ensure your corn casserole turns out just right, follow these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Letting cream cheese and eggs reach room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the mixture.
- Don’t Overmix – Gently folding in ingredients prevents a dense texture, keeping your casserole light and fluffy.
- Add Extra Cheese – For an even cheesier flavor, feel free to mix in additional cheese beyond the recommended amount.
- Bake Until Golden Brown – Keep an eye on your casserole; it should be golden brown on top and set in the center before removing from the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Corn Casserole
Corn casserole pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some great options to complete your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make for a classic pairing that everyone enjoys.
- Coleslaw – This crunchy side adds freshness and brightness to balance the richness of corn casserole.
- Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans enhance the flavor profile of your meal, making it more hearty.
- Macaroni and Cheese – For cheese lovers, this combo is a match made in heaven!
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a deliciously sweet counterpoint to savory dishes.
- Cornbread Muffins – These muffins echo the flavors found in corn casserole while adding more texture to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a corn casserole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your casserole dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your baking dish may cause sticking. Always grease the dish to ensure easy removal and serving.
- Not letting it cool: Cutting too soon can lead to a messy serving. Allow your casserole to cool slightly before slicing for neat squares.
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold cream cheese can affect the smoothness. Soften it at room temperature for best results.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Baking for the wrong amount of time can ruin texture. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking for a golden top and set center.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Corn casserole stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Corn Casserole
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Corn Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Corn Casserole?
Corn casserole is a creamy side dish made with sweet corn, cream cheese, and corn muffin mix, baked until golden.
Can I make Corn Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.
How do I customize my Corn Casserole?
You can add different cheeses, spices, or even chopped vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor.
Why is my Corn Casserole dense?
Dense texture usually comes from overmixing. Be gentle when combining ingredients to keep it light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is an incredibly comforting dish that pairs well with many meals. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it suitable for holidays or any family gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for even more delicious variations!
Corn Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the sweetness of corn with a rich, creamy texture. This easy-to-make dish features sweet corn, cream cheese, and corn muffin mix, creating a deliciously satisfying side perfect for any occasion—from holidays to weeknight dinners. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole can easily impress your family and friends. Bake until golden brown for a delightful treat that perfectly complements any main course. Enjoy it warm and watch it disappear from your table!
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn (drained)
- 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
- 1 (8.5 oz) package corn muffin mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add melted butter, sugar, milk, and beaten eggs; stir until combined.
- Mix in the drained whole kernel corn and creamed corn.
- Gently fold in the corn muffin mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Season with salt and pepper and stir in shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12th of casserole (approximately 130g)
- Calories: 228
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 47mg
