Golden Cheesy Corn Bake Recipe

The Best Creamy Cheesy Corn Bake Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort food reaches new heights with this irresistible cheesy corn bake that promises to steal the show at any dinner table.

Golden kernels nestled in a rich, velvety sauce create a mouthwatering side dish everyone will adore.

The blend of sweet corn and melted cheese delivers a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Weeknight meals just got an upgrade with this simple yet luxurious recipe.

Fresh ingredients come together effortlessly to produce a crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug.

Each spoonful promises a creamy, cheesy experience that will have people asking for seconds.

Dive into this delectable corn bake and watch it become an instant favorite at your next gathering.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Calories: 305 kcal

Servings: 9

Creamy Cheesy Corn Bake Ingredient List

For Creamy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides luxurious richness and smooth texture that binds all ingredients together; select full-fat version for maximum creaminess.
  • Green Chiles: Adds zesty kick and subtle heat; choose mild or hot varieties based on personal spice preference.
For Corn and Cheese Layer:
  • Corn, Colby Jack Cheese: Delivers sweet corn kernels and melty cheese goodness; pick fresh or frozen corn and sharp Colby Jack for robust flavor.
  • Onion: Introduces aromatic depth and subtle sharpness; select sweet white or yellow onion for balanced taste.
For Seasoning:
  • Spices: Elevates overall dish with warming notes and complexity; use freshly ground spices for most vibrant flavor profile.
  • Cooking Spray: Ensures easy dish release and prevents sticking; choose neutral-flavored spray for best results.

Storing Creamy Corn Bake with Care

  • Plan Strategic Leftovers: Store remaining corn bake in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention.
  • Freeze for Future Meals: Wrap the cooled dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for 2-3 months, creating a convenient make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
  • Reheat with Care: Warm refrigerated portions in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes to maintain the original creamy texture and prevent moisture loss.
  • Portion and Protect: Divide leftovers into individual serving containers to simplify reheating and prevent unnecessary repeated warming that could compromise the dish's quality.

Kitchen Tools for Creamy Cheesy Corn Bake

  • 9×9 Baking Dish: Essential for perfectly sized corn bake with even cooking.
  • Microwave-Safe Bowl: Large enough to mix cream cheese and ingredients smoothly.
  • Spatula: Perfect for stirring and folding ingredients without creating lumps.
  • Measuring Cups: Helps accurately measure cheese and other ingredients.
  • Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking to the baking dish.

How to Cook Cheesy Corn Bake

  • Oven Warmup

Set your oven to a cozy temperature that will help your corn bake transform into a golden masterpiece. Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray to prevent any sticky situations.

  • Creamy Cheese Fusion

Grab your cream cheese and green chiles, then send them on a quick spin in the microwave. Watch as they melt into a smooth, dreamy mixture that promises deliciousness.

  • Ingredient Symphony

Introduce the corn, cheese, onions, and spices to your creamy base. Gently fold everything together like you’re creating a delectable dance of flavors.

  • Cheesy Topping

Pour your corn mixture into the waiting baking dish. Crown it with a sprinkle of extra cheese that will create a crispy, golden blanket.

  • Baking Magic

Slide the dish into the warm oven and let it bake until the top turns a beautiful golden brown. For extra crispiness, a quick broil can add that perfect finishing touch.

Flavor Ideas for Creamy Corn Bakes

  • Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smoother, lump-free texture.
  • Experiment with different chile varieties like jalapeños or poblanos to customize the heat level and add a personal flavor kick.
  • Use fresh corn kernels during summer months for a more vibrant, sweet taste that elevates the entire dish.
  • Fold in cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken to transform this side dish into a hearty main course.
  • Prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready – perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.

Serving Creamy Corn Bake with Style

  • Gather Family Around the Table: Serve this warm, bubbling corn bake as a comforting side dish that brings everyone together for a delicious meal.
  • Pair with Protein Powerhouses: Complement the creamy corn bake with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or baked fish to create a satisfying and balanced dinner plate.
  • Add Fresh Crunch on Top: Sprinkle some chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or crispy bacon bits over the finished dish to add extra texture and flavor contrast.
  • Create a Southwestern Feast: Accompany the corn bake with salsa, sour cream, or a zesty guacamole to enhance the dish's subtle chile and cheese flavors.
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Golden Cheesy Corn Bake Recipe

Golden Cheesy Corn Bake Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Midwestern comfort shines through in this cheesy corn bake recipe, blending sweet corn kernels with rich dairy goodness. Home cooks can savor simple ingredients that create a soul-warming side dish perfect for family gatherings and potluck celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 oz (1.27 kg) whole kernel corn, canned and drained
  • 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese
  • 1.25 cups (298 ml) Colby Jack cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 4 oz (113 g) green chiles, canned and diced
  • ½ yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp white sugar
  • ½ tsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • Fresh green onions (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 300°F (149°C) and thoroughly spray a 9 × 9 inches (23 × 23 centimeters) baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cheese Melting: Combine cream cheese and green chiles in a microwave-safe bowl, heating until the cream cheese becomes silky and malleable. Stir with a spatula to create a smooth, homogeneous mixture.
  3. Flavor Fusion: Blend drained corn kernels, Colby Jack cheese, diced onion, and selected spices into the cream cheese base. Fold ingredients gently to maintain a consistent texture and even distribution of flavors.
  4. Baking Assembly: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, topping with the remaining shredded cheese to create a golden, appetizing surface.
  5. Final Cooking: Bake for approximately one hour until the dish develops a rich, golden-brown color. Optional: Activate the low broil setting for 1-2 minutes to achieve a crisp, caramelized finish, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Check Cheese Meltability: Select a high-quality melting cheese like Colby Jack to ensure a smooth, creamy texture that browns beautifully and provides rich flavor depth.
  • Customize Spice Levels: Adjust green chiles and spices to match your heat preference, from mild to bold, creating a personalized corn bake experience.
  • Prevent Moisture Buildup: Thoroughly drain corn kernels to avoid excess liquid that could make the dish watery and compromise the creamy consistency.
  • Monitor Broiling Carefully: Watch the dish closely during the final 1-2 minutes of broiling to achieve a golden-brown top without burning the cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 305
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 430 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Michael Rivera

Michael Rivera

Co-Founder & Culinary Instructor

Expertise

  • Classic French Cuisine
  • Artisanal Bread Baking
  • Plant-Based Culinary Innovation
  • Recipe & Menu Development
  • Interactive Online Instruction

Education

The French Culinary Institute (now part of the International Culinary Center)

  • Program: Classic Culinary Arts
  • Focus: An intensive curriculum rooted in classical French techniques, artisanal bread production, and contemporary culinary methods.

Michael Rivera is a seasoned chef and culinary instructor based in San Francisco, CA. Trained in Classic Culinary Arts at The French Culinary Institute, he refined his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, mastering classic French techniques and artisanal bread baking. 

Passionate about making gourmet methods accessible, Michael co-founded thatsmyhome.com to share his expertise through interactive online lessons and innovative, plant-based recipes. He loves blending traditional techniques with modern ideas, encouraging home cooks to enjoy the art of cooking in a relaxed, fun environment.

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