Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a family favorite bursting with nostalgia and comfort, Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is an absolute must-try. This velvety, golden-baked dish marries the irresistible sweetness of corn with the rich tang of cream cheese and a hint of savory, buttery goodness. It effortlessly graces any holiday table, potluck, or Sunday dinner, and always disappears in a flash from the buffet line. From the golden crust to the melt-in-your-mouth center, every forkful is pure joy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a little extra coziness, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection every single time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is how a few simple pantry staples work together to create magic. Each ingredient holds its own, bringing an essential pop of texture, flavor, or color, making this side dish uniquely unforgettable.

• Whole kernel corn (2 cans, drained): Adds soft, juicy bites that provide structure and sweetness with every mouthful.
• Creamed corn (1 can): Delivers a creamy background that helps bind and intensify the corn flavor.
• Cream cheese (1 package, softened and cubed): Injects irresistible smoothness and a slight tang that sets this casserole apart.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Ensures richness and helps create that classic, golden top layer.
• Sour cream (1 cup): Provides a balance of tang and body, keeping the casserole deliciously moist.
• Corn muffin mix (1 box): Binds the ingredients together and infuses a subtle, cake-like sweetness.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Brightens all the flavors and keeps the dish well-seasoned.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Brings a hint of warmth to complement the sweet and creamy elements.

How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole won’t stick, making for easy serving and clean-up.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cubed cream cheese, melted butter, and sour cream. This first step is all about blending the ingredients so your casserole turns out silky and luscious. Stir gently, making sure the cream cheese is well dispersed and melting into the mix.

Step 3: Mix In the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the corn muffin mix over your wet ingredients, along with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until everything is thoroughly incorporated. Don’t over-mix; just be sure there are no big lumps of cream cheese or streaks of dry muffin mix left.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, keeping an eye on things as the top turns a gorgeous light golden brown. If you like a slightly firmer casserole, bake closer to 50 minutes; if you want it super creamy, check it at 45.

Step 5: Let It Rest, Then Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This brief patience pays off big time; it allows the Cream Cheese Corn Casserole to set up just right, making slicing and serving a breeze.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Garnishes

Give your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole a festive flair by showering it with fresh chopped chives, green onions, or a dusting of smoked paprika. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a handful of crispy bacon crumbles can make it even more decadent, especially for crowd-pleasing occasions.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a dream alongside classic mains like roasted turkey, baked ham, or barbecue chicken. It also pairs beautifully with green beans, roasted brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad. It’s the side dish that complements everything, from big holiday spreads to weeknight dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique spin, try baking your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings—fun for potlucks or buffet tables. Or scoop it muffin-style into a cupcake tray for hand-held bites. You can even serve leftovers atop grilled meats or nestled inside a breakfast burrito for a delightful morning surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cream Cheese Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Its flavor holds beautifully, and a quick zap in the microwave brings back all its creamy deliciousness.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Cream Cheese Corn Casserole! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your casserole back to life, reheat covered in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts. Add a splash of milk or cream if the casserole seems a little dry after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Simply substitute equal amounts of drained, thawed frozen corn or freshly cooked corn kernels for the canned whole kernel corn. The creamed corn adds needed moisture, so be sure to keep that in the recipe.

Can Cream Cheese Corn Casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes—it’s one of the best things about this dish! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed, adding just a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The standard recipe is not gluten-free due to the corn muffin mix, but you can easily swap in a gluten-free cornbread mix to suit dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.

Can I add other ingredients or mix-ins?

Definitely! Stir in extras like green chiles, diced jalapeños, shredded cheese, or even crumbled bacon before baking to tailor the Cream Cheese Corn Casserole to your family’s favorites.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

The center should be set and no longer jiggly, with a lightly golden top. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. Letting it rest before serving helps it firm up perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving warmth, comfort, and a show-stopping side that wins raves every time, give Cream Cheese Corn Casserole a try. Its creamy texture, hint of sweetness, and golden, buttery top make it unbelievably hard to resist. Gather your loved ones and share a dish that’s sure to become a cherished tradition!

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