Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese

Searching for that one unforgettable side dish that has everyone asking for the recipe? This is it. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving dinner or need something cozy for Sunday night, this Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese delivers big comfort with little effort.

This creamy corn casserole is rich, smooth, and packed with flavor. The cream cheese melts into the sweet corn, creating a velvety base. Sharp cheddar adds that cheesy goodness everyone loves, and optional jalapeños bring a gentle kick if you’re craving heat. Every bite is warm, soft, and deeply satisfying.

What makes this dish even better is its simplicity. No boxed mix here, this is a corn casserole with no Jiffy mix, just real, honest ingredients from your fridge and freezer. It’s an easy corn casserole recipe that feels homemade and special. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a weeknight side, this dish always disappears fast.

If you love easy, comforting sides, don’t miss this Corn Pudding Casserole, another rich and creamy crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or potlucks.

Table of Contents

Why This is the BEST Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese

This Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese stands out from the crowd, and here’s exactly why:

• Incredibly Creamy & Rich
  The smooth blend of cream cheese, butter, and milk creates a velvety texture that most casseroles can’t match. It’s a creamy corn casserole that feels indulgent without being heavy. The melted cheese pulls everything together into a luscious, spoonable side dish.
• Super Easy to Make
  This is a true easy corn casserole recipe. No complex steps or special tools. Just melt, stir, pour, and bake. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone short on time but craving a homemade comfort dish.
• Perfect Holiday Side Dish
  Looking for the ideal Thanksgiving corn casserole? This one’s made to impress. It pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or any holiday roast. Plus, it’s quick to prep and always a hit on the holiday table, no leftovers guaranteed.
• Customizable Heat
  Love a little spice? Add some diced jalapeños for a kick. Cooking for kids or spice-sensitive guests? Simply leave them out. This dish adapts easily to any crowd or preference, making it a reliable favorite year-round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this amazing Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese. Each one plays a key role in making this dish creamy, flavorful, and unforgettable.

• Frozen Sweet Corn
  Frozen corn is picked and frozen at its peak, so it’s sweet, tender, and flavorful. It saves time and effort, no shucking or cooking required. You can also use canned corn (drained well) or fresh corn (cooked and cut off the cob), but frozen gives the best texture.
• Cream Cheese
  Use full-fat, block-style cream cheese for the creamiest results. It adds a rich, smooth base to the casserole. Let it soften at room temperature before melting; it blends more easily and gives a silky finish.
• Butter & Milk
  Both salted or unsalted butter work here. Butter adds richness, while milk loosens the mixture into a pourable, creamy sauce. Whole milk is ideal, but 2% milk also works if that’s what you have on hand.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  Sharp cheddar gives a bold, cheesy flavor. Grate it fresh from a block for the best melt; pre-shredded cheese has additives that can affect texture.
• Pickled Jalapeños (Optional)
  These bring a tangy, mild heat. Start with a tablespoon if you’re unsure. You can always add more.
• Salt & Black Pepper
  Simple, essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Add to taste.

How to Make Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese (Step-by-Step)

This corn casserole with cream cheese is simple, quick, and beginner-friendly. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time. If possible, include process photos at each step to help readers follow along visually; it builds trust and boosts engagement.

1. Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. This step helps prevent the casserole from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

2. Create the Creamy Base

In a medium saucepan, combine:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 (8-ounce) block of softened cream cheese
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Black pepper to taste

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture often using a whisk or silicone spatula. The cream cheese may look a bit lumpy at first, but keep stirring; it will melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. This base gives your creamy corn casserole its signature texture and flavor. Don’t rush this step, as gentle heating is key to preventing the sauce from separating.

3. Combine the Corn and Cheese

Once your sauce is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
Stir in:

• 4 cups of thawed frozen corn (or use drained canned corn as a substitute)
• Diced pickled jalapeños (optional, add to your spice level)

Mix everything gently until the corn is fully coated in the sauce.
Next, fold in ¾ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, saving about ¼ cup to sprinkle on top later. This step adds that bold, cheesy flavor throughout the dish while keeping the topping extra melty and golden.

4. Assemble and Bake

Pour the corn mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese evenly across the top.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This rest time helps it firm up slightly for cleaner scooping.

This easy Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese recipe is perfect straight from the oven. It’s cozy, creamy, and the ideal holiday side dish, especially for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. And because it’s so quick to prepare, it also works for weeknight dinners or potlucks year-round.

Expert Tips for Success

Want your corn casserole with cream cheese to turn out perfectly every time? These expert tips will help you avoid common mistakes and get that ultra-creamy, cheesy result you’re craving.

• Soften the Cream Cheese
  For a lump-free sauce, make sure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature before melting. Cold cream cheese takes longer to melt and can leave clumps in the sauce. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Thaw the Corn Completely
  If you’re using frozen corn, thaw it fully and drain off any excess liquid. Extra moisture can water down your creamy base, affecting the texture and flavor. Patting the corn dry with a paper towel can help too.
• Don’t Overbake
  Bake the casserole just until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden. Overbaking can make the sauce break and turn greasy. Set a timer and check at the 20-minute mark for best results.
• Let it Rest
  After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes scooping cleaner and easier, plus, it’s not piping hot when served.

Follow these simple tricks, and your creamy corn casserole will be a consistent crowd-pleaser every single time.

For another cheesy favorite that’s a hit at family dinners, try this Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

Fun Variations

Looking to change things up? This corn casserole with cream cheese is easy to customize. Here are a few tasty twists to try:

• Add Bacon
  Mix in crispy, crumbled bacon before baking for a rich, smoky flavor. It adds a salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
• Crunchy Topping
  For a little texture, top your casserole with crushed Ritz crackers or Panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese layer before baking for a golden, crispy crust.
• Add Herbs
  Stir in some fresh chopped chives or sliced green onions before baking or sprinkle them on top just before serving. They add a fresh bite and a nice pop of color that brightens the whole dish.

These variations are easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen and your personal flavor preferences.

For a sweet-and-savory twist, check out this Cheesy Pineapple Casserole, it’s surprisingly addictive and makes a fun alternative side.

What to Serve With Corn Casserole?

This holiday side dish pairs perfectly with a wide range of main courses. Try serving it alongside:

• Roasted turkey for Thanksgiving
• Baked ham at Christmas or Easter
• BBQ pulled pork at a cookout
• Grilled chicken breast for a comforting weeknight dinner

No matter how you serve it, this creamy corn casserole complements both festive feasts and everyday meals with ease.

Pair this dish with a meaty main like Swiss Chicken Casserole for a complete comfort food dinner everyone will love

FAQs About Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese

Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese Time To Try!

I hope you love this Corn Casserole With Cream Cheese as much as my family does! It’s cozy, rich, and always a favorite on our holiday table or weeknight menu. If you give this corn casserole with cream cheese a try, please leave a comment and a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. Your feedback means so much, and I love hearing how the recipe turned out for you.

Made this dish and loved it? Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest so you can find it again later. You can also share a photo on Instagram and tag me. I’d be thrilled to see your delicious creation. Happy cooking!

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