Cream Cheese Corn Bake Recipe

The Creamiest Cheese Corn Bake Recipe Your Family Will Adore

Corn takes center stage in this irresistible cream cheese corn bake that promises pure comfort and flavor.

Creamy, rich textures blend seamlessly with sweet kernels of golden corn.

Every forkful delivers a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The dish combines simple ingredients with elegant simplicity, creating a side that feels both rustic and sophisticated.

Melted cream cheese weaves through the corn, adding depth and lusciousness to each bite.

Butter and seasonings enhance the natural sweetness, making this bake a crowd-pleasing companion to any main course.

You won’t be able to resist this warm, inviting dish that transforms ordinary corn into an extraordinary culinary delight.

Cream Cheese Corn Bake Comforting Flavors

  • Whip Up Quick Comfort: This corn bake delivers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort, making it perfect for busy home cooks seeking delicious side dishes.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Adaptable for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults with its creamy, cheesy texture.
  • Transform Simple Ingredients: Elevate basic pantry staples like corn and cream cheese into a luxurious, mouthwatering dish that feels like a gourmet restaurant creation.
  • Budget-Friendly Delight: Affordable ingredients combined with easy preparation mean you can create a restaurant-quality side dish without breaking the bank.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Corn Bake

Main Ingredients:
  • Corn: Sweet and tender corn kernels form the base of this creamy side dish.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, smooth texture and tangy flavor to the corn bake.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese creates a golden, crispy topping.
Dairy Components:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
Optional Flavor Enhancer:
  • Sugar: Brings a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements of the dish.

Making Cream Cheese Corn Bake Easily

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Get your oven warmed up to 350°F.

Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

This will help your corn bake slide out perfectly later.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Corn Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend these delightful ingredients:
  • Corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • Cream cheese
  • Melted butter
  • Sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness)

Use a whisk or wooden spoon to mix everything until smooth and well combined.

The cream cheese will create a luscious, velvety texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 3: Assemble and Top

Pour the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the top.

The cheese will melt and create a golden, crispy surface that adds incredible flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly and the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown.

The top should look slightly crisp and the inside creamy and inviting.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the corn bake cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.

Scoop out generous portions and watch everyone at the table dive in with excitement.

Tips for Cream Cheese Corn Bake Perfection

  • Add crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra depth and texture.
  • Swap full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
  • Stir mixture gently to prevent overmixing and maintain corn's natural texture.
  • Sprinkle fresh chives or parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish.
  • Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Corn Bake Variations for Cream Cheese Lovers

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version that's creamy and rich.
  • Spicy Southwest Blend: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and sprinkle pepper jack cheese for a zesty, kick-up-the-flavor corn casserole.
  • Herb Garden Mix: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like thyme, chives, and parsley to elevate the corn bake with bright, aromatic notes.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and use cornstarch as a potential thickener if needed for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Corn Bake

  • Comfort Meal Companion: Pair this creamy corn bake with roasted chicken or grilled pork chops for a satisfying family dinner that brings warmth to the table.
  • Brunch Superstar: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon as a delightful side dish that adds richness and texture to your weekend morning spread.
  • Potluck Champion: Transport this dish in a covered casserole to gatherings, where its cheesy golden top and creamy corn base will become an instant crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly.
  • Garnish Elegance: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives or green onions on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a subtle onion flavor that complements the creamy corn base.

Storing Cream Cheese Corn Bake Properly

  • Store any remaining corn bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
  • Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Corn bake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed corn bake in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning and keep the dish moist.
  • Reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Repeated warming can dry out the corn bake and reduce its creamy texture and flavor.

FAQs

  • Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the Cream Cheese Corn Bake is vegetarian-friendly and does not contain any meat ingredients.

  • Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely! You can substitute canned corn with thawed frozen corn, just ensure it’s well-drained before mixing.

  • What type of cream cheese works best?

Any standard cream cheese works well, but full-fat varieties provide the richest flavor and creamiest texture.

  • How can I make this dish a bit healthier?

Consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and butter, and adding some diced bell peppers or green onions for extra nutrition.

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Cream Cheese Corn Bake Recipe

Cream Cheese Corn Bake Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy Southern cream cheese corn bake delivers pure comfort with rich, velvety goodness that celebrates summer’s sweet corn harvest. Midwest home cooks cherish this simple side dish that brings families together with warm, cheesy indulgence you’ll want to savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 ounces / 425 grams) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded

Dairy and Butter:

  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) butter, melted

Sweetener:

  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the corn kernels with softened cream cheese, ensuring a smooth and even consistency.
  3. Incorporate melted butter into the mixture, stirring gently to distribute the richness throughout the corn blend.
  4. Add a touch of sugar if desired, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and create a harmonious flavor profile.
  5. Transfer the creamy corn mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
  6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top, creating a tantalizing golden cover for the dish.
  7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt and turn a beautiful golden brown.
  8. Remove from the oven when the edges are bubbling and the cheese has developed a crispy, appetizing crust.
  9. Allow the corn bake to rest for a few minutes before serving, which helps the dish set and makes it easier to portion.

Notes

  • Choose fresh or frozen corn for the best texture, ensuring a creamy and sweet base for the dish.
  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature beforehand to blend smoothly without lumps.
  • Add a dash of chopped jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick that complements the creamy corn.
  • Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or pepper jack to customize the flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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