Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole: A Comforting Classic for Any Occasion

When the air turns crisp and family gatherings are just around the corner, there’s one dish that always finds its way to the center of the table: Cream Cheese Corn Casserole. Rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, this crowd-pleasing side dish brings warmth to every bite and nostalgia to every meal. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast, planning a cozy Sunday dinner, or looking for an easy yet delicious potluck dish, this casserole fits the bill.

This particular recipe is inspired by my grandmother’s Southern-style corn pudding. Over the years, it’s evolved—swapping out heavy ingredients for lighter ones and adding cream cheese for an irresistible creamy texture that practically melts in your mouth. Simple to make yet indulgent in flavor, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

There are hundreds of corn casserole recipes out there, but what makes this one stand out?

  • ✅ Ultra-creamy texture thanks to cubes of real cream cheese
  • ✅ Perfectly balanced flavor with optional sugar for a subtle sweetness
  • ✅ Minimal prep time—ready for the oven in under 10 minutes
  • ✅ Versatile for any event, from holidays to weeknight dinners
  • ✅ Customizable with optional cheddar cheese or fresh green onions

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a total beginner in the kitchen, this is a no-fail, foolproof recipe that will become part of your go-to recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, here’s everything you’ll need to gather:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Pro Tip: For a more rustic or homemade touch, try using fresh corn cut from the cob when it’s in season. Simply sauté it briefly before adding it to the mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is incredibly easy, even if you’re not typically confident in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of butter.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • Melted butter
  • Milk
  • Sugar (if using)
  • Salt
  • Pepper

This mixture helps to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the dish.

3. Add the Corn

Next, fold in:

  • Drained whole kernel corn
  • Creamed corn

Stir gently until everything is well combined.

4. Incorporate the Cream Cheese

Add the cubed cream cheese, gently folding it in to maintain some visible chunks. These will melt slightly during baking but still provide a delicious, creamy surprise in every bite.

5. Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the corn mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.

💡 Optional: If you love a cheesy, golden top, now’s the time to sprinkle on the shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until:

  • The casserole is bubbling
  • The cheese (if used) is melted and lightly browned

7. Let it Rest & Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

🌿 Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh pop of flavor and color.

Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Even though this is a super simple recipe, here are a few tips to elevate it:

✅ Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese

Softened cream cheese blends better and avoids lumps. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.

✅ Don’t Overmix

Gently fold in the cream cheese to avoid breaking it down too much. You want pockets of creaminess throughout.

✅ Add a Crunchy Topping

Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter make a fantastic crispy topping.

✅ Make It Ahead of Time

You can prepare the casserole up to a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it unbaked. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Serving Suggestions

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is one of the most versatile side dishes you can serve. Here are some delicious pairing ideas:

🦃 Holiday Meals

Perfect alongside:

  • Roast turkey
  • Honey glazed ham
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Green bean casserole

🍗 Weeknight Dinners

Serve with:

  • BBQ chicken
  • Grilled pork chops
  • Baked meatloaf

🌽 Potluck or Picnic

Pairs wonderfully with:

  • Pulled pork sandwiches
  • Burgers and hot dogs
  • Fresh garden salad

Customize Your Casserole

Want to get a little creative? Here are some fun variations to try:

🌶️ Add Heat

Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

🧀 Cheese Lover’s Dream

Double the cheddar and mix some into the casserole and sprinkle on top.

🥓 Bacon Makes Everything Better

Fold in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for extra richness and flavor.

🧅 Caramelized Onions

Swap the green onions for caramelized onions to add sweetness and depth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This casserole is just as good the next day—and sometimes even better! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

🧊 Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🔥 Reheating

  • Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 300°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second bursts until hot.

❄️ Freezer Friendly?

Yes! Freeze baked or unbaked (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to double-check the labels, especially on creamed corn and cheddar cheese.

❓ Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes! Just thaw and drain it well before using. About 3 cups of frozen corn is equivalent to two cans.

❓ Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking dish or two standard-size ones. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Why This Recipe Is So Shareable

The internet loves comfort food, and this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is made for sharing—both at the table and online.

  • 📸 Instagram-worthy: That golden cheese topping? Perfect for your food feed.
  • 📌 Pinterest-friendly: A must-have on any holiday side dish board.
  • 💬 Conversation starter: Share it with friends and compare family traditions.
  • ❤️ Family-approved: Kids and adults alike go back for seconds (or thirds).

Want to help others discover this gem? Share this recipe with your friends and family, or pin it to your favorite board!

Final Thoughts: A Creamy, Corny Hug in a Dish

There’s something magical about a dish that brings people together—and Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is one of those recipes. It’s simple, satisfying, and just plain good. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you need something warm and comforting, this dish hits all the right notes.

If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments how it turned out! And don’t forget to tag us on Instagram with your photos using #CornCasseroleLove—we’d love to see your delicious creations.

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