Southwestern Corn Bake
A hearty Southwestern Corn Bake features creamy corn, sharp Cheddar cheese, and spicy green chilies, making it a flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine creamed corn, cornmeal, oil, eggs, garlic powder, and chopped green chilies in a bowl.
- Pour half of the corn mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Spread chopped green chilies evenly over the corn mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the chilies.
- Pour the remaining corn mixture on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the bake is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the garlic powder with fresh minced garlic. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of regular oil, or even unsweetened applesauce for a lower fat version. You can easily adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot chopped green chilies based on your preference. This dish pairs beautifully with Super Easy Dip for a fun appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Southwestern Corn Bake as a hearty main dish or a side alongside grilled meats or salads. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or your favorite salsa for added zest. For a complete meal, consider serving it with American recipes like barbecued chicken or tacos. It also makes a great addition to potlucks or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes on high, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Corn Bake contains roughly 426 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. For a non-dairy option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well, or simply omit the cheese for a lighter version.
Can I freeze the Southwestern Corn Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).