Cheesy Corn Casserole is a warm, comforting side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with rich, creamy cheese for the perfect balance of flavors.
Made with simple ingredients like corn kernels, cheese, eggs, and a touch of seasoning, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers a crowd-pleasing taste.
Its golden, bubbly top hides a soft, custard-like center that pairs beautifully with holiday roasts, weeknight dinners, or potluck gatherings.
Loved for its versatility, it can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing its flavor or texture, making it a go-to recipe for both busy cooks and festive occasions.
Cheesy Corn Casserole is a warm, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy side dish that perfectly blends sweet corn with a luscious, savory custard-like filling.
This recipe has been a holiday table staple in many households, especially for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and potlucks. The beauty of Cheesy Corn Casserole is that it requires only a handful of ingredients—often items you already have in your pantry—and can be prepared with minimal effort.
The golden crust on top, the gooey cheese in the center, and the bursts of sweet corn kernels make it appealing to both kids and adults. It’s a perfect marriage of comfort food and simplicity.
Cheesy Corn Casserole
Description
Cheesy Corn Casserole is a warm, comforting side dish that combines sweet corn, creamy cheese, and a soft, moist base for a deliciously rich flavor.
Often made with a mix of whole kernel corn, creamed corn, eggs, butter, sour cream, and shredded cheddar, it bakes into a golden, slightly crispy top with a tender, cheesy interior.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or potlucks, pairing perfectly with roasted meats, barbecue, or festive spreads.
Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and subtle sweetness make it an irresistible addition to any meal, enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and helps with easy serving.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, melted butter, creamed corn, and whole kernel corn. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. If using eggs, whisk them lightly before adding to ensure smooth blending.
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Stir in the cornbread mix, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until no large dry lumps remain, but avoid overmixing—this can make the texture too dense.
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Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The remaining ½ cup will be used for topping later. This ensures cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
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Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean (a little moisture is fine due to the cheese).
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Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return it to the oven for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making slicing easier.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 310kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19g30%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Cholesterol 55mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 29g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 7g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Cheesy Corn Casserole – Tips for Success
Cheesy Corn Casserole is one of those comfort dishes that works just as well for a holiday spread as it does for a casual weeknight dinner.
The combination of sweet corn, creamy base, and gooey cheese is simple, but small details can make it extraordinary.
1. Choose the Right Corn
- Sweet corn kernels give a pleasant contrast to the rich, cheesy base. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn.
- If using canned corn, drain it well to avoid excess liquid that can make the casserole watery.
- For extra depth, mix in creamed corn with whole kernels—it boosts the creamy texture without needing extra dairy.
2. Pick the Perfect Cheese
- Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for flavor and meltability.
- Mixing cheeses (like cheddar + Monterey Jack or mozzarella) gives a more complex flavor profile.
- Grate cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can make the casserole less creamy.
3. Balance the Creaminess
- Sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream can be used for richness.
- If you like a lighter version, try Greek yogurt for tang and protein.
- Keep the wet-to-dry ratio in check—too much liquid will make it mushy, too little will make it dense.
4. Season Generously
- Corn is naturally sweet, so add a bit of salt to balance flavors.
- Paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes can add warmth.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top after baking brighten the flavor.
5. Perfect the Texture
- Bake uncovered so the top develops a light crust.
- If you want a crispy golden topping, sprinkle extra cheese or buttered breadcrumbs during the last 10–15 minutes.
- Rest the casserole for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets and slices cleanly.
6. Avoid Overbaking
- Overbaking can make the cheese grainy and dry.
- Remove from the oven when the center is just set and slightly jiggles—carryover heat will finish cooking.
Serving Tricks to Elevate Your Cheesy Corn Casserole
1. Presentation Counts
- Serve in a cast-iron skillet or rustic baking dish for a homestyle feel.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, green onions, or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Sprinkle with paprika or smoked paprika before baking for both color and flavor.
2. Serve with the Right Sides
- Works beautifully alongside roasted meats, barbecue, or grilled vegetables.
- For brunch, serve with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage.
- At holiday dinners, pair it with turkey, ham, or baked chicken.
3. Mini Portions for Parties
- Bake in muffin tins for individual servings—perfect for potlucks.
- These mini casseroles are easy to serve and great for freezing.
4. Layer for Extra Appeal
- Before baking, layer in slices of jalapeño or roasted red peppers for a colorful surprise.
- Swirl in pesto or salsa for a fun twist.
5. Keep It Warm for Guests
- If serving buffet-style, keep the casserole in a warm oven (around 200°F / 93°C) or in a slow cooker set to “warm” to maintain creaminess without drying it out.
6. Make-Ahead Strategy
- Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate.
- Bake just before serving, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dish.
- Alternatively, bake fully, cool, cover, and reheat gently at 325°F (163°C).
Tips for Success
- Cornbread Mix – Jiffy is the most common choice, but any brand works. If you want a less sweet casserole, choose a savory cornbread mix.
- Cheese Choices – Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Extra Creaminess – Add 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese to the mix for a richer flavor.
- Crispy Top – Broil for the last 2 minutes to create a lightly browned cheese crust.
- Make Ahead – You can prepare the mixture the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh before serving.
- Serving Temperature – Best served warm, but it also tastes good at room temperature for potlucks.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Bacon Lovers – Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon before baking.
- Tex-Mex Style – Add a can of drained green chiles, some cumin, and use a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
- Veggie Boost – Mix in diced bell peppers or chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
- Loaded Corn Casserole – Top with sour cream, chopped scallions, and crispy fried onions before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Corn Casserole is extremely versatile. It pairs beautifully with:
- Roast turkey, chicken, or ham for a holiday feast
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork for a summer cookout
- Fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for balance
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Corn Casserole is the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the table. The sweetness of corn contrasts perfectly with the savory, melty cheese, while the cornbread mix gives it a fluffy, comforting texture.
It’s incredibly forgiving—whether you make it richer with cream cheese, spicier with jalapeños, or more indulgent with bacon, it always delivers on flavor.
Plus, it’s an inexpensive recipe that feeds a crowd, making it a practical choice for gatherings. It also holds up well for potlucks and buffets since it stays moist even after sitting for a while.
Final Thought
Cheesy Corn Casserole is more than a side dish—it’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe that can adapt to any table.
By choosing the right corn, balancing the creamy base, and adding thoughtful touches to the presentation, you can turn this humble comfort food into a memorable favorite.
Whether served family-style in a big dish or as adorable individual portions, it’s guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Once you’ve made it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent fixture on your holiday menu. From the first cheesy bite to the last crumb, it’s a true comfort food classic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh or frozen corn for canned. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off about 4–5 medium cobs. For frozen corn, thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the recipe.
Keep in mind that canned cream-style corn has a creamy texture that adds moisture, so if you skip it, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream for the right consistency.
How can I make Cheesy Corn Casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Mix all the ingredients, pour into the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate.
When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 20–30 minutes before putting it in the oven to prevent uneven cooking. You may need to add 5–10 extra minutes of bake time since it will start cold.
Can I make it without eggs or dairy?
Yes! For an egg-free version, you can use an egg replacer or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg. For dairy-free, replace butter with vegan margarine, use dairy-free cheese shreds, and swap milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm (about 15–20 minutes) or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes. Adding a sprinkle of cheese before reheating can refresh the flavor and texture.
