Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a delicious and creamy side dish that combines sweet corn, rich cream cheese, and a hint of butter, all baked to perfection. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and perfect for family meals, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. The combination of whole kernel and cream-style corn creates a hearty texture, while the cream cheese gives it a smooth, indulgent flavor. This recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 eggs

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, sugar, cornmeal, milk, and eggs. Stir everything together until well blended.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 8

Variations

1. Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
2. Spicy Corn Casserole: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
3. Bacon Lovers: Top the casserole with crumbled cooked bacon before baking for a savory crunch.
4. Vegetarian Twist: Add diced bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
5. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cornmeal or substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
   Yes, you can use frozen corn, just make sure to thaw and drain it before using.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding additional time as needed.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
   This dish pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a Thanksgiving or holiday spread.
5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version, though the texture may be slightly less rich.
6. What can I use instead of cornmeal?
   You can substitute the cornmeal with a small amount of cornstarch or flour, though the texture will differ slightly.
7. How can I make this casserole sweeter?
   Add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar or a tablespoon of honey for more sweetness.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter, but butter will give a richer flavor.
9. What can I add to make this casserole more savory?
   Try adding a cup of grated Parmesan cheese or a teaspoon of garlic powder for a savory flavor.
10. Can I double this recipe?
    Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to please any crowd. With its rich, creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor, it complements a wide variety of main courses. This dish is not only easy to make but also versatile, with plenty of opportunities for customization. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or as a weeknight side, this casserole is bound to be a hit!

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