Cheesy Corn Bake
A creamy, cheesy corn bake with a hint of spice, perfect as a side dish for gatherings or family dinners, offering rich flavors and a warm, comforting texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter and cream cheese together.
- Stir in the drained corn, chopped green chilies, milk, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or sour cream. You can substitute the Niblets corn with fresh corn or frozen corn if needed. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, or replace it with paprika for a milder flavor. This dish can also be enhanced with shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Corn Bake as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Bread Pudding for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the corn bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Corn Bake contains roughly 129 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just transfer it to the baking dish before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, diced bell peppers, or even black beans for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as too many wet ingredients can alter the baking time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Cheesy Corn Bake is a vegetarian-friendly dish. It contains no meat, making it a great option for those following a vegetarian diet. Pair it with other vegetarian recipes for a delicious meal.
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).