There are few things as comforting as a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is no exception! It’s the perfect side dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just when you’re craving something rich and savory. Loaded with two types of corn, buttery crackers, and an indulgent blend of cream cheese and sour cream, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food at its best – Creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet with a crunchy cracker topping.
- Easy to make – With just 10 minutes of prep, this recipe comes together quickly and bakes in under 35 minutes!
- Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole always delivers.
- Make-ahead option – Prepare it the day before and simply bake it when you’re ready!
Taste and Texture
This casserole is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, with the sweetness of the corn balancing out the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream. The buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the corn mixture. The taste is both savory and slightly sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious corn casserole:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sleeve (about 40) Ritz crackers, crushed
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spatula or spoon for mixing
- A small bowl for crushing the Ritz crackers
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
- Cheddar cheese: Want even more cheesy goodness? Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the corn mixture before baking.
- Bacon bits: For a smoky twist, sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the top after baking.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat!
- Gluten-free option: Swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
How to Make Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Mix the ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, softened cream cheese, melted butter, sour cream, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
- Prepare the topping – Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs and sprinkle them evenly over the corn mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve – Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
The smell when this casserole is baking is absolutely mouthwatering—you’ll find it hard to wait for that golden crust to form!
What to Serve with Cheesy Corn Casserole
This casserole pairs well with so many dishes, but here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Roast chicken or turkey – A classic combo, especially for the holidays.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables – Try pairing it with Brussels sprouts or green beans for a balanced meal.
- BBQ ribs or pulled pork – The sweetness of the corn complements smoky barbecue flavors perfectly.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Don’t overbake! You want the top to be golden brown, but not too crispy. The inside should stay creamy and soft.
- Make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! You can substitute 3 cups of fresh or frozen corn for the canned whole kernel corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain frozen corn first.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
To lighten it up, you can use light cream cheese and sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter or use a butter substitute.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is pure comfort in a dish—creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery cracker crumbs. It’s a versatile side dish that’s sure to be a hit whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s easy enough for any night of the week!
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment and rating below, or snap a photo and share it on Pinterest.
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
Looking for more comforting casserole recipes? Check out my other favorites like Sweet Potato Casserole and Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole!
