Introduction
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the kind of dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its rich, creamy texture, golden crust, and sweet corn flavor, this casserole combines the best parts of cornbread, corn pudding, and cheesy comfort food. It’s a beloved side dish in Southern cooking — perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any Sunday family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 package (8.5 oz) dry cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened (optional but highly recommended for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. - Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, and softened cream cheese.
Stir until the mixture is well blended and creamy. - Add Seasonings:
Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor. Mix well. - Pour into Baking Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. - Optional Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a golden, cheesy crust. - Bake:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown around the edges. - Cool Slightly Before Serving:
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to firm up and develop its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm as a side dish with roasted turkey, baked chicken, ham, or barbecue ribs.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley on top for a fresh finish.
- For a spicy twist, mix in diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese before baking.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze baked casserole portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
History
Corn casseroles trace their roots back to Native American and early Southern cuisine, where corn was a staple ingredient. Over time, cornbread mixes like Jiffy became a quick way to create this creamy dish. Adding cream cheese and sour cream is a modern twist that gives it a velvety richness that melts in your mouth — making it a holiday classic in many American homes.
Benefits
- Rich in carbohydrates for energy.
- Calcium and protein from sour cream, butter, and cheese.
- Vitamin C and fiber from corn.
- Comfort food value: boosts mood and brings warmth to family meals!
Formation (Texture & Flavor Profile)
The casserole forms three beautiful layers as it bakes:
- A slightly crisp golden top.
- A creamy, cheesy center.
- A soft, cornbread-like base infused with corn sweetness.
Each bite delivers a balance of creamy, buttery, and slightly sweet corn flavor with hints of salt and richness from dairy.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~310
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.)
Lovers of This Dish
This casserole is adored by:
- Families looking for an easy side dish that pleases everyone.
- Holiday cooks who want something creamy, cozy, and foolproof.
- Cornbread and cheese lovers who can’t resist golden, bubbling comfort food.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the ultimate blend of sweet, savory, and creamy. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile — whether served alongside turkey at Thanksgiving or as a cozy weeknight comfort dish. Once you try it, it’ll become a staple on your family’s dinner table.
