Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe That’ll Steal the Show at Any Dinner

If you’re looking for a rich, crowd-pleasing side dish that’s easy to whip up and guaranteed to get recipe requests, look no further than Cream Cheese Corn Casserole. With its silky texture, sweet corn base, and indulgent blend of cream cheese and cheddar, this dish has earned a permanent spot on countless holiday tables across the country.

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter—or just a weeknight when comfort food is calling—this casserole brings warm, cheesy, creamy goodness to your plate with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

🧀 What Is Cream Cheese Corn Casserole?

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a rich, comforting side dish that combines sweet corn with melted cream cheese, butter, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese. Optional additions like diced jalapeños, green chiles, or crispy bacon can elevate this classic to suit your taste buds.

It’s a variation of traditional corn pudding or corn bake but with a luxurious, velvety twist thanks to the cream cheese. The result is a dish that’s slightly sweet, ultra-creamy, and irresistibly cheesy—perfect as a side dish or even as a cozy main course for vegetarian meals.

🌽 Simple, Everyday Ingredients

The beauty of Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is its simplicity. You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen:

• Cream Cheese – The star ingredient, lending luscious creaminess and a subtle tang.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
• Milk – Loosens the mixture to just the right consistency.
• Sweet Corn – Frozen, fresh, or canned; whatever you have on hand works!
• Cheddar Cheese – For a sharp, cheesy kick.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
• Optional Add-ins: Minced pickled jalapeños, green chiles, or crispy bacon for a kick or added texture.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cream Cheese Corn Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6–8

1. Melt the Cream Base

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt cream cheese and butter, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined.

2. Add Milk

Gradually stir in the milk until the sauce is creamy and uniform.

3. Season & Stir

Add salt and pepper. If you like, add a small spoonful of sugar to amplify the corn’s natural sweetness.

4. Mix in Corn & Extras

Fold in thawed or drained corn, along with any optional ingredients like jalapeños or green chiles.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the creamy mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.

6. Top with Cheese

Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

7. Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Variations to Try

• Add Jalapeños – Mild or hot, diced jalapeños bring a touch of heat.
• Green Chiles – A can of diced green chiles adds flavor without overwhelming spice.
• Rotel Tomatoes – For a burst of color and flavor, try Rotel (tomatoes + green chiles).
• Bacon – Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon or sprinkle on top before baking for extra indulgence.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Planning a holiday meal? You can prep this casserole 1–2 days in advance.

1. Follow all steps up to baking.
2. Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate.
3. Before serving, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes extra if needed.

Slow Cooker Option

Need oven space? Make your Cream Cheese Corn Casserole in a crockpot:

• Add all ingredients (except shredded cheese) to a slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 2–3 hours or until heated through and creamy.
• Stir occasionally, then sprinkle cheese on top 15 minutes before serving.

For full details, see our dedicated Slow Cooker Creamy Cheesy Corn recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Honey-glazed ham
• Grilled steak or BBQ ribs
• Baked potatoes or green beans

It’s also a hit on potluck tables and makes a wonderful freezer-friendly gift meal for new parents, friends recovering from illness, or anyone in need of comfort food.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual servings.

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

• Quick & Easy – Just 10 minutes of prep.
• Ultra-Creamy – Thanks to the combo of cream cheese, butter, and milk.
• Cheesy & Flavorful – Cheddar adds depth and richness.
• Customizable – Add jalapeños, bacon, or green chiles for a twist.
• Crowd Favorite – It always gets rave reviews!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Serves 8):

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is a comfort food classic you’ll want to make again and again. Its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors makes it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

More Similar Recipes To Try

Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole Recipe

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Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food side dish. Made with tender sweet corn, velvety cream cheese, buttery richness, and sharp cheddar, it bakes into a hot, bubbly, cheesy delight that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Add pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick or keep it classic—either way, this dish is always a crowd favorite. Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 274

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 8 oz package cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
• 4 tablespoons butter salted or unsalted
• ⅓ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 18 oz bag frozen sweet corn, thawed (about 4 cups)
• Diced pickled jalapeños to taste (optional)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Equipment

• Medium Saucepan (2-quart capacity)
• 8×8-inch Baking Dish or 2-quart casserole dish
• Mixing Spoon or Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
2. Melt the cream cheese and butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously to soften and combine. The mixture may look a bit lumpy at first.
3. Add the milk and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the seasonings — salt and pepper — followed by the thawed corn and jalapeños (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
5. Transfer the corn mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the edges are bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
7. Serve warm as a cheesy, creamy side that pairs perfectly with ham, turkey, BBQ, or anything you’re serving!

Notes

Frozen Corn Tip: An 18 oz bag of frozen corn equals about 4 cups. You can substitute with two 15 oz cans of drained corn, but frozen offers better flavor and texture.

Lumpy Sauce Fix: If your cream cheese mixture appears lumpy at first, don’t worry—it smooths out once the milk is fully incorporated.

Add-Ons: Feel free to add diced green chiles, a can of Rotel, or even crispy crumbled bacon for added depth and flair.

Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes if needed.