Cheese Corn Bake
A creamy, cheesy corn casserole with a hint of green chili, perfect as a hearty side dish or comfort food for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine or butter.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until well combined.
- Stir in the drained shoepeg corn, chopped green chili, salt, garlic salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with parsley flakes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until bubbly hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use whipped cream cheese instead of regular. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or using spicy green chilies. You can also substitute the shoepeg corn with regular sweet corn if unavailable, but make sure to drain it well. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Corn Bake is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with cornbread for a comforting meal. For a full dinner, consider serving with American recipes like BBQ chicken or ribs. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Corn Bake contains roughly 41 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients, place in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you'll need about 4 cups of corn kernels. Cook the corn until tender, then drain and use it in place of the canned corn. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a lovely texture.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, although this may slightly change the flavor and texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative that blends well with the other ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).