Description
Smooth cream cheese corn casserole delivers southern comfort on a plate. Rich ingredients blend effortlessly, creating a creamy side dish that warms hearts and satisfies hunger.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups/473 ml frozen or canned corn (drained)
- 4 oz/113 g cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup/120 g shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup/30 g grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup/57 g unsalted butter
- ¼ cup/60 ml sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup/38 g diced jalapeños or green chilies
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease casserole dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release.
- Cheese Sauce Creation: Melt butter in a deep saucepan over low heat, then whisk in cream cheese until completely smooth. Incorporate sour cream, blending dairy components seamlessly. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, distributing flavors evenly.
- Mixture Development: Fold corn kernels into the creamy base, gently integrating cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. For added complexity, mix in finely chopped jalapeños or green chilies if desired. Ensure a uniform, well-combined texture throughout the mixture.
- Baking Process: Pour the corn mixture into the prepared dish, spreading evenly. Generously top with additional shredded cheddar, creating a promising golden crust. Transfer to preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until edges bubble and cheese transforms into a crispy, bronzed layer.
- Finishing Touch: Remove casserole from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to harmonize and texture to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, herbaceous accent before serving hot.
Notes
- Adjust Corn Texture: Use fresh or frozen corn for best results. Canned corn can make the dish watery, so drain and pat kernels dry before adding to prevent excess moisture.
- Cheese Melting Technique: Melt cheeses slowly over low heat to prevent separation or graininess. Stir consistently and avoid high temperatures that can cause cheese to become tough or stringy.
- Spice Customization: Modify heat levels by adjusting jalapeño quantities. Remove seeds for milder flavor or add extra for more intense spiciness. Consider alternative peppers like poblano or mild green chilies for different flavor profiles.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Cover tightly with foil to maintain moisture. When ready to serve, bake directly from the refrigerator, adding 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time to ensure thorough heating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (or more)
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg