Description
Golden, creamy, and bubbling with flavor, this White Cheddar Baked Corn is a rich, savory side dish that’s sure to steal the show. Perfect for your next potluck, Sunday dinner, or festive holiday gathering, this easy recipe transforms sweet corn into a comforting, cheesy casserole that delivers on both texture and taste. If you’re hunting for easy dinner ideas, comfort food classics, or even a quick way to elevate your holiday table, this dish checks every box. It’s one of those irresistible food ideas that works as both a side and a star.
Ingredients
4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained if needed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese (1 cup for mix, 1/2 cup for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, cooking until the mixture thickens (about 3–5 minutes).
4. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Lower heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded white cheddar until melted.
5. Fold in the corn kernels. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
7. Top with remaining 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
8. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a deeper crust (optional).
9. Let rest a few minutes, garnish with chopped chives or parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best melting—pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Add-ins like cooked bacon, diced jalapeño, or bell pepper bring extra flavor.
To make ahead, assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve, adding 5–10 minutes to cook time if cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of dish
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: baked corn, cheesy corn casserole, white cheddar corn, easy dinner sides, comfort food, holiday recipes