Description
Cheesy Baked Creamed Corn Casserole
Ingredients
3 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Make the cream sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, then add cream cheese. Stir until smooth.
Combine ingredients: Add corn, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Assemble and bake: Pour the corn mixture into the baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof casserole. First, ensure all ingredients are measured and ready. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain it completely. For canned corn, drain the liquid. In your saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once foamy, add the flour and whisk constantly for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste—this is your roux. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Add the softened cream cheese in small pieces, whisking until the sauce is perfectly smooth and thickened. Remove from heat before stirring in the corn, seasonings, and Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy casserole is the ultimate comfort food side. Serve it hot alongside roasted or grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or holiday ham. For a hearty meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also makes a fantastic potluck or holiday dinner contribution, as it travels well and holds its temperature.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Baked Creamed Corn Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F. Create a creamy base by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in heavy cream and cream cheese. Fold in corn, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese. Transfer to a greased dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes for mozzarella. Keep the Parmesan for its salty, umami flavor.
How do I prevent a watery casserole? The key is thoroughly draining canned or frozen corn. Also, ensure your cream sauce has thickened properly on the stovetop before combining.
Can I make it lighter? You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich. Low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheeses can also be used.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding wet corn to the mixture, as it will make the casserole soupy. Do not skip cooking the flour and butter for the full minute; an undercooked roux tastes floury. Resist the urge to overbake, which can cause the sauce to break and become greasy—remove it as soon as it’s bubbly and the top is lightly browned. Finally, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to blend smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Creamed Corn Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent side dish. Its perfect balance of creamy texture, sweet corn, and savory cheese makes it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a flawless, comforting dish that your family and guests will request time and again.