If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish that brings creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors to the table with minimal effort, this Best Cream Cheese Corn Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s rich, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners when you want something warm and satisfying. This casserole combines sweet corn, sautéed onions, and a velvety cream cheese base topped with melted cheddar. The result? A creamy, cheesy bite with just the right balance of sweetness and savory. It’s one of those dishes that disappears fast—so you might want to double the recipe if you’re feeding a group. I first made this for a Thanksgiving side dish years ago when I wanted something a little different from the usual corn pudding or cornbread casserole. I had cream cheese in the fridge and a few cans of corn, and with just a handful of other ingredients, this dish came together in no time. The response? Everyone went back for seconds (and a few asked for the recipe before dinner was over). Let’s dive into the ingredients and walk through the first steps to get this creamy corn casserole into your oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

This recipe is great with any type of corn you have on hand—fresh off the cob in summer, frozen in the winter, or even canned for convenience. Just make sure to drain canned corn well or thaw frozen corn before adding it.

STEP 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Set the dish aside while you prepare the creamy corn mixture on the stovetop.

STEP 2: Sauté the Onion

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent. Cooking the onions first brings out their natural sweetness and adds a subtle depth of flavor to the casserole. Don’t rush this step—soft, golden onions are the foundation of the dish.

 

STEP 3: Melt the Cream Cheese

Once the onions are softened, add the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of milk directly into the skillet. Stir constantly as the cream cheese melts and blends with the milk. It should turn into a smooth, velvety sauce within a couple of minutes. This creamy base is what gives the casserole its rich, indulgent texture. Make sure to stir well so there are no lumps and everything is evenly mixed.

STEP 4: Season and Add the Corn

To the cream cheese mixture, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until fully incorporated, then add the 4 cups of corn kernels. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the corn is heated through. If you’re using frozen corn, this step also helps evaporate any excess moisture so your casserole isn’t watery.

 

How to Bake and Customize This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole

Now that your cream cheese corn mixture is warm and creamy on the stovetop, it’s time to assemble and bake this crowd-pleasing casserole. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—just a few final steps and you’ll have a golden, bubbly side that tastes like it took way more effort than it actually did. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday favorite or a weeknight comfort dish, this next part is where the magic happens. The casserole goes into the oven rich and creamy and comes out hot, cheesy, and ready to steal the spotlight at any meal.

STEP 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully spoon the warm corn and cream cheese mixture into your prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure the surface is nice and level. This ensures even baking and a consistent texture throughout. At this stage, it already smells incredible—rich, buttery, and savory with just a hint of sweetness from the corn and sautéed onion.

STEP 6: Add the Cheddar Topping

Now for the cheesy finish: sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden layer that complements the creaminess underneath. You can use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, or mild cheddar for a smoother melt. Want to mix it up? Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a bit of parmesan can be great additions depending on your flavor preferences.

 

STEP 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the cheese on top is fully melted. If you prefer a slightly browned, more golden top, you can turn the broiler on for the last 1–2 minutes—just be sure to watch closely so it doesn’t burn.

 

STEP 8: Let Cool and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly and makes serving easier. If desired, garnish with 1/4 cup chopped green onions for a pop of color and a bit of fresh flavor. It’s the kind of dish that looks rustic and homey but tastes like something you’d get at a cozy diner or Southern-style restaurant.

Helpful Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Corn Casserole:

1. Soften the Cream Cheese First

Room temperature cream cheese melts and blends much faster. If you forgot to soften it, you can microwave it in 10-second bursts until just soft.

2. Use Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Corn

This recipe is very forgiving. Just make sure canned corn is well-drained and frozen corn is thawed to avoid excess moisture.

3. Add Texture with a Crunchy Topping

For a little crunch, sprinkle crushed butter crackers or crispy fried onions on top during the last few minutes of baking.

4. Spice It Up

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mix if you want a little heat to balance the creamy richness.

Fun Variations to Try:

This casserole is easy to adapt to your taste or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some favorite ways to switch it up:

1. Bacon and Cheddar Corn Casserole

Stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon before transferring the mixture to the baking dish. It adds a smoky, salty bite that pairs perfectly with the sweet corn and cream cheese.

2. Cream Cheese Cornbread Casserole

Add 1 cup of prepared cornbread crumbs or crumbled leftover cornbread to the filling for a thicker, heartier texture.

3. Southwest Style

Mix in ½ cup black beans, diced red bell pepper, and a teaspoon of cumin for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

4. Extra Veggie Version

Add a handful of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or chopped spinach to increase the veggie content while keeping it creamy and satisfying.

 

Cream Cheese Corn Casserole FAQ and Final Thoughts:

This Best Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the definition of a comfort-food side dish—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to make, versatile enough to fit any meal, and always a hit at the table. But if you’re wondering about make-ahead tips, ingredient swaps, or how to reheat leftovers, you’re not alone. Below are answers to the most common questions to help you make the most of this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and then bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze cream cheese corn casserole?

Yes, but with a note. You can freeze it after baking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing, but the flavor will still be great.

3. What type of corn works best?

Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work well. Just be sure to drain canned corn thoroughly and thaw frozen corn to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

4. Can I make it without cream cheese?

Cream cheese is the key to the creamy texture, but if needed, you can substitute with 1 cup of sour cream or a blend of sour cream and shredded cheese. The texture will be slightly different, but still rich and flavorful.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the full dish in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating if desired.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free (especially the cream cheese and any pre-shredded cheese). There are no flour or bread-based ingredients in the base recipe.

7. What can I serve this with?

This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, holiday ham, BBQ ribs, or even as part of a vegetarian plate. It’s versatile and hearty enough to complement almost any main dish.

Conclusion: A Side Dish That Belongs on Every Table

This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole has quickly earned its place as a staple recipe in my kitchen. It’s the kind of side dish that’s easy enough for a casual weeknight dinner but delicious and satisfying enough to make it onto your holiday table year after year. From the first bite of buttery corn and creamy cheese to the golden, bubbly top, every spoonful is rich, flavorful, and comforting. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, simple to customize, and always a hit with guests of all ages. If you haven’t tried it yet, this is your sign to give it a go. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the fun variations, I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home too. Made it? Let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear what you paired it with—or what twist you tried. Happy cooking! Print