There’s genuine magic in the combination of sweet corn, creamy mayo, gooey cheese, and a kiss of green onion that makes Korean Corn Cheese a dish you’ll never forget. This delightful Korean comfort food is beloved as both a side dish and a snack, served sizzling hot at BBQ spots and enjoyed late-night in K-town eateries. With blistered cheese on top, a pop of crunch, and hints of buttery richness throughout, every spoonful bursts with nostalgia and fun. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to cozy vibes at home, you’ll want this on repeat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of fridge and pantry staples can come together to create one of Korea’s most beloved cheesy snacks. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, enhancing taste and texture—from a distinctly sweet crunch to melty, irresistible cheese pulls.

Sweet corn: Use canned corn for ultimate convenience and sweetness; just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Mayonnaise: Adds tangy creaminess and binds everything together for that creamy, decadent taste.
Unsalted butter: For delicious richness and a golden finish, it’s worth the extra flavor payoff.
Sugar: Just a spoonful balances all the savory and tangy notes—don’t skip it!
Salt: Essential for enhancing the sweetness of the corn and rounding out the overall flavor.
Black pepper: Gives the dish a gentle kick to cut through the creaminess.
Mozzarella cheese: The signature cheese-pull factor—choose low-moisture, pre-shredded for best melting.
Green onions: Brings color and a mild oniony bite that wakes up the whole dish.
Parsley or extra green onion (optional): For a fresh, summery garnish to finish things off.

How to Make Korean Corn Cheese

Step 1: Mix the Base

Start by emptying your drained sweet corn into a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, sugar, salt, pepper, and half the sliced green onions. Give everything a good stir—don’t be shy! You want every single kernel coated in that tangy, velvety mixture. It’s already smelling amazing, right?

Step 2: Sauté with Butter

Melt the unsalted butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Swirl it around so the entire pan gets coated and then pour in your corn mixture. Let it sizzle, stir occasionally, and watch as the edges take on that lovely golden touch. Heating everything together for 3 to 4 minutes helps the flavors meld and intensifies the sweetness of the corn.

Step 3: Add the Cheese Blanket

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the bubbling corn mixture. You want a generous, luscious layer that covers every nook and cranny. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot—it’s the star of the show!

Step 4: Broil Until Bubbling

Transfer the whole skillet to a preheated broiler. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close watch, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and speckled with golden brown spots. The aroma will fill your kitchen and signal that your Korean Corn Cheese is absolutely ready.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Bring the skillet out (careful, it’s hot!) and immediately top with the rest of your green onions or a sprinkle of parsley for color. Serve it straight from the skillet for that homey, rustic vibe. Every spoonful is meant to be savored!

How to Serve Korean Corn Cheese

Garnishes

Finishing touches make all the difference. Scatter over extra sliced green onions for a hit of freshness, or grab a handful of chopped parsley if you want a burst of green. If you’re feeling bold, a whisper of red chili flakes on top can bring a little extra excitement to each bite.

Side Dishes

Korean Corn Cheese is a superstar alongside Korean BBQ meats, fried chicken, or a selection of grilled veggies. Some even love scooping it up with tortilla chips like a decadent dip or serving it next to fluffy white rice. Any way you go, it’s guaranteed to get devoured fast!

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the classic skillet! Try making individual ramekins for fun, shareable portions at parties. Or scoop the cheesy corn over baked potatoes, add it to tacos, or spread on toast for a next-level snack. However you serve it, let that gooey cheese and sweet corn remain the hero.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Korean Corn Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors stay lively, and it reheats beautifully—making it perfect for an indulgent snack on demand.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish since the texture of the corn and cheese can change once thawed. If you do need to freeze, let the Korean Corn Cheese cool, portion it into a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, spoon the leftovers back into an oven-safe skillet or dish. Warm in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, or zap a bowl in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. A quick broil at the end will revive that irresistible cheesy top!

FAQs

Can I use frozen or fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! Frozen or fresh corn both work great in Korean Corn Cheese—just make sure to cook the kernels briefly and drain off any excess liquid before using. You might notice a little extra sweetness and crunch with fresh corn, which is always a bonus!

Is there a way to make Korean Corn Cheese vegan?

Yes! Swap in vegan mayo, plant-based butter, and your favorite non-dairy shredded cheese. The dish keeps its creamy texture and flavor while becoming completely plant-based. Just keep an eye on melting time with different vegan cheeses.

What can I add for more flavor?

Feel free to experiment: a dash of chili flakes, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or adding a handful of grated Parmesan can take the dish to new heights. You could also fold in some chopped jalapeño or diced red bell pepper for a little extra color and heat.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Korean Corn Cheese scales up beautifully. Use a larger skillet or bake the mixture in a casserole dish. Just increase the broiling time a bit if you’re working with a bigger batch to make sure the cheese is fully melted and golden.

Is Korean Corn Cheese gluten free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is naturally gluten free, making it a fantastic option for guests with dietary restrictions. If you mix in any extra ingredients, always double check labels for gluten to be sure.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet experienced the oozy, creamy joy of homemade Korean Corn Cheese, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself! Whether you’re sharing it at your next get-together or digging in for a cozy solo snack, this recipe always delivers pure comfort and fun. Grab that skillet and get ready to make your new kitchen favorite!