Few things say comfort like a warm, creamy casserole fresh from the oven. This Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole combines the sweet crunch of corn with the luscious richness of cream cheese and the melty goodness of cheddar. Imagine digging into a bubbling, golden casserole that’s soft, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet and savory—a dish so versatile that it can grace your holiday table or become a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a festive gathering, potluck, or just a cozy family meal, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients

To make this irresistible casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavor-packed ingredients.

What You’ll Need

Gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

2 cans (15 oz each) corn kernels, drained
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream for tangy richness
½ cup milk to achieve a perfectly creamy consistency
½ cup melted butter for that buttery indulgence
½ cup sugar for a touch of sweetness
1 teaspoon salt to balance flavors
½ teaspoon black pepper for a hint of spice
¼ teaspoon garlic powder for subtle savory depth
¼ teaspoon onion powder to enhance flavor
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for gooey, cheesy goodness
½ cup cornbread mix (or corn muffin mix) for structure and a hint of cornbread flavor

Pro Tip: Use high-quality ingredients, such as freshly shredded cheddar, for the best results.

Substitutions and Additions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, and you can customize it to suit your tastes:

Cheese swaps: Replace cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for a milder or spicier profile.
Kick it up a notch: Stir in chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or diced green chiles to add some heat.
Sweeten it up: Substitute some of the corn kernels with cream-style corn for extra sweetness and creaminess.
Add texture: Mix in crispy cooked bacon bits or diced red bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is as easy as it is rewarding. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, golden, and irresistibly creamy dish ready to serve in under an hour.

Preparation

Before diving into mixing and baking, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the casserole cooks evenly, so don’t skip this step!
Grease the Baking Dish:
Use a 9x9-inch baking dish or something of similar size. Grease it generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Organize Your Tools and Ingredients:
- Gather a large mixing bowl, spatula, whisk, and measuring cups.
- Make sure all your ingredients—especially the cream cheese—are at room temperature. Softened cream cheese is much easier to mix and ensures a smooth texture.

Mixing

The secret to this dish’s creamy and dreamy consistency lies in how you combine the ingredients.

Start with the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and melted butter.
- Use a whisk or electric hand mixer to beat the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Pro Tip: Fully incorporating the cream cheese at this stage is crucial. If there are lumps, the casserole won’t bake evenly.
Add the Seasonings and Sugar:
Stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These seasonings give the dish its perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Adding Corn and Cheese

Now for the fun part—folding in the stars of the show!

Incorporate the Corn:
Add the drained corn kernels to the bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold them into the mixture to avoid crushing the kernels.
Mix in the Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistibly gooey texture.
Add the Cornbread Mix:
Finally, fold in the cornbread mix (or corn muffin mix). This step gives the casserole its subtle structure and light cornbread flavor. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the casserole to stay fluffy.

Baking the Casserole

Transfer to the Dish:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- The top should turn a lovely golden brown, and the edges should bubble gently.
- Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Pro Tip:
Rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.

Finishing Touches

Let It Rest:
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps it set and makes serving easier.
Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile enough to serve on a variety of occasions, and with the right pairings and presentation, it can easily steal the show.

Occasions and Pairings

The Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a side dish superstar! Here’s when and how to serve it:

Perfect for Holidays:
It’s a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. The creamy, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with holiday staples like roast turkey, glazed ham, or beef tenderloin.
Potluck and BBQ Favorite:
This casserole travels well, making it an excellent choice for summer BBQs, family reunions, or church potlucks.
Comfort Food Night:
Serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or hearty soups for a cozy, satisfying dinner.

Presentation Ideas

While the casserole is delicious on its own, a little creativity can elevate its presentation:

Individual Ramekins:
Instead of baking the dish in one large pan, divide the mixture into individual ramekins for a polished, personal touch.
Cheese Garnish:
Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before baking. The melted, golden layer adds a gourmet feel.
Rustic Charm:
Serve straight from the baking dish on a wooden trivet for a cozy, farmhouse-style presentation.
Topping Additions:
Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions before baking. This extra layer of texture is always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that checks all the boxes—easy to make, universally loved, and endlessly adaptable—look no further. Here’s why this Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a seasoned cook to nail this recipe. With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
Crowd-Pleasing: This casserole’s creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the natural sweetness of corn is a flavor profile everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or festive celebration, this dish guarantees happy diners.
Adaptable: Want to turn up the heat with jalapeños? Prefer it extra cheesy with a double dose of cheddar? No problem! This casserole can be customized to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With so much going for it, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in kitchens everywhere.

Recipe FAQ

To help you achieve perfect results every time, here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Baking or Cooking Tips

How can I avoid overcooking the casserole?
- Set your timer for 45 minutes, then check for doneness. The top should be golden and bubbly, but not overly browned. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
How do I ensure the casserole stays creamy?
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened and mixed thoroughly with the other ingredients. Overmixing or adding too much cornbread mix can make the casserole denser and less creamy.

Troubleshooting

What do I do if my casserole turns out runny?
- A runny casserole is often caused by too much liquid. Double-check your measurements for milk and butter, and ensure you’re using drained canned corn. If needed, bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes to firm up.
Why is my casserole unevenly cooked?
- Uneven baking can occur if your oven has hot spots. Rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.

Storage and Reheating

Whether you’re making the casserole ahead of time or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storage Tips

How do I store leftovers?
- Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze it?
- Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Absolutely. Mix the ingredients and pour them into the greased baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.
How do I freeze an unbaked casserole?
- Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if necessary.

Reheating and Serving

What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?
- For leftovers, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent it from drying out.
- For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
How do I restore the creamy texture after reheating?
- Add a small splash of milk or cream before reheating to bring back the casserole’s creamy consistency.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes:

Cornbread Mexican Casserole: A hearty, spicy twist on a classic casserole.
Easy Pineapple Casserole: Sweet, savory, and utterly unique.
Delicious Cabbage Casserole: A comforting dish packed with tender cabbage and cheesy goodness.

Conclusion

This Classic Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a guaranteed way to bring comfort, flavor, and joy to your table. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and versatile nature make it the ultimate side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it with family on a quiet evening, this dish never disappoints.