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Cream Cheese Corn Casserole: A Dish with Heart
Ah, the smell of Cream Cheese Corn Casserole wafting from the oven! It takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter filled the air, and our bellies were never empty for long. This dish is as comforting as a warm embrace — creamy, cheesy, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Whenever I make it, I find myself chatting with my family or friends who’ve gathered, all while reminiscing about memories filled with love and laughter.
What makes this casserole so delightful is not only its flavor but also how it brings everyone together. Whether I’m making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, it’s always a hit. And honestly, who can resist a dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious? Let’s dive in and see what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleaser!
What’s in Cream Cheese Corn Casserole?
- 2 cups corn kernels – Whether you go for fresh, frozen, or canned, corn is the star of the show here. I tend to prefer fresh when it’s in season, but hey, no judgment if you want to take a shortcut with frozen or canned!
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened – This is what gives the casserole its creamy goodness. Don’t skimp on the softening; nobody wants lumps!
- 1 cup sour cream – For that extra layer of tanginess that pairs so well with the corn. I always opt for full-fat sour cream because, let’s be honest, it just tastes better.
- 1/2 cup milk – Adds moisture and helps to balance the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping) – I always use sharp cheddar for its robust flavor. Grab a handful for the topping too — we can’t resist a cheesy crust!
- 1/4 cup sugar – Just a touch of sweetness to enhance that corn flavor. It’s surprisingly delightful!
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better!
- 1/2 tsp onion powder – Adds depth without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 tsp salt – Essential for bringing out all those lovely flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – A small kick to keep things interesting.
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional for a heartier dish) – This is where you can turn up the comfort level even more. It’s perfect for a filling meal!
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping) – If you love a bit of texture, this is your moment! Crunchy topping for the win!
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional) – A little sprinkle of greenery brightens things up and adds color.
Is Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspect of this casserole. With the primary ingredients like corn and cheese, this dish provides you with fiber and some protein. Corn is great for your digestion while bringing vitamin C to the table. However, the presence of cream cheese and sour cream does mean it can be a bit rich. If you’re watching your saturated fat intake, consider opting for low-fat versions of those ingredients!
If you decide to include rice, it’ll help to bulk up the dish and give it a more substantial feel, making it a fantastic option for dinner. Just keep in mind the breadcrumbs can add extra calories, so use them judiciously if you’re counting. Overall, enjoy this comforting casserole in moderation and savor every bite!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I love using butter for greasing — it adds an extra touch of flavor!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth and well combined. You may want to use an electric mixer for this part; it saves a lot of elbow grease!
- Stir in the corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is evenly mixed. If using, add the cooked rice at this stage.
- Pour the corn mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some breadcrumbs over the cheese for that delightful crunch!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. You might find it hard to resist the aroma that fills your kitchen!
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired — a little green makes everything more inviting.
Treasure Your Serving Suggestions
Don’t shy away from making this casserole your own! Try swapping out cheddar cheese for something a bit spicier like pepper jack, or even tossing in some jalapeños for a zesty kick! If you’re feeling fancy, serve it as a side dish next to BBQ ribs or grilled chicken. It’s a fantastic way to liven up any meal. Plus, leftovers (if you have them) make for a great lunch the next day!
So, are you ready to dive into a dish that screams comfort and joy? Try this Cream Cheese Corn Casserole and share your experience — I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
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