Description
Garlic Butter Corn Cheese is a rich and creamy side dish that combines sweet corn kernels with melted butter, garlic, and a blend of cheeses for a flavorful and comforting treat. Perfectly baked to a golden bubbly finish, this recipe is ideal for serving as a warm side or a delicious dip at family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Corn
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn) or 2 cans of corn, drained
Butter & Garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Seasoning & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the ears by removing husks and silk, then rinse under cold water. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob by placing the ear upright in a bowl to catch the kernels. If canned corn is used, simply drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Corn: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, taking care not to burn it. Add the corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes if fresh or 3-4 minutes if canned, stirring occasionally until the corn is heated through.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and mayonnaise. Add chili powder if desired, then season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Corn and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool for a minute. Add the cooked corn into the cheese mixture and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the corn and cheese mixture into it, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Serve warm as a comforting side dish or as a dip with tortilla chips, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh corn with frozen corn if fresh is unavailable; just thaw before using.
- For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mayonnaise in the cheese mixture adds creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs on top instead of extra cheese for a crunchy topping option if desired.
