Feathered Corn
A creamy, cheesy corn dish with a hint of green chilies, perfect as a comforting side or appetizer for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and margarine.
- Mix all ingredients except the grated American cheese.
- Bake the mixture at 375°F for 20 minutes.
- Top with grated American cheese and return to the oven.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheese melt for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat cream cheese instead of reduced-fat. If you want to add some spice, jalapeños can be substituted for the green chilies. To enhance flavor, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the mixture. This dish can also be customized with additional veggies like bell peppers for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Feathered Corn makes a delightful side for grilled meats or as part of a potluck spread. It pairs beautifully with Southwest Corn Bread or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve with Queso and tortilla chips for a fun appetizer arrangement.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but baking will maintain the cheese's texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Feathered Corn contains roughly 761 calories, with 15g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (161% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1346mg per serving (59% 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 use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh corn! You'll need about 3 cups of fresh corn kernels. Boil or steam the corn until tender before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will add a vibrant flavor and texture to the dish.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer, you can substitute the margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based margarine that doesn't contain dairy.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten this recipe, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and a light margarine. You could also reduce the amount of cheese on top or use a blend of low-fat cheese. Additionally, adding more veggies can bulk it up without adding many calories.
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).