Make Your Corn Casserole Irresistible With This Easy Cream Cheese Hack!

Indulge in the irresistible charm of corn casserole, a classic dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Elevate this beloved side to new heights by incorporating the velvety richness of cream cheese. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of creating a mouthwatering corn casserole with cream cheese, leaving you with a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can of whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can of creamed corn
• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1/4 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of melted butter
• 1/2 cup of bread crumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

2. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, cream cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

3. Transfer to a Baking Dish:

Pour the corn casserole mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

4. Bake:

Bake the corn casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

5. Let Rest:

Allow the corn casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set further.

Variations

• Add Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, add 1/4 cup of chopped jalapeños to the casserole mixture.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack.
• Top with Croutons: For a crispy topping, sprinkle 1/2 cup of croutons over the casserole before baking.
• Add Bacon: Enhance the flavor with 1/2 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the sour cream with plain yogurt and omit the bacon to create a vegetarian-friendly version.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh corn for the best flavor. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely before draining.
• Do not overmix the casserole mixture, as this can result in a tough texture.
• If you don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish, you can use an 8×8 inch dish. However, adjust the baking time accordingly, reducing it by about 10-15 minutes.
• Serve the corn casserole with a side of your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, or shredded cheese.

FAQ

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, you can use canned corn if fresh corn is unavailable. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the casserole mixture.

2. What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or plain yogurt. However, the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

3. How can I make my corn casserole spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the casserole mixture to taste.

4. Can I freeze corn casserole?

Yes, you can freeze corn casserole for up to 3 months. Freeze it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

5. What can I serve with corn casserole?

Corn casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or pork chops.