Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 ounces Frozen Corn Kernels (three 10 ounce bags)
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened, about 1 cup)
- ½ cup Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth
- 2 tablespoons Butter (salted)
- 6 Scallions (green onions, finely sliced)
- ½ cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the fresh ingredients: Finely slice the scallions and chop the fresh cilantro. Set aside these fresh herbs for later use in the casserole.
- Soften the cream cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until softened, making it easier to blend smoothly.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare it for baking the casserole later.
- Thaw the corn: Place the frozen corn kernels in a strainer and run cold water over them to thaw quickly while draining excess water.
- Make the creamy corn mixture: In a blender or food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, broth, and about ½ to ¾ cup of the thawed corn kernels. Pulse until you achieve a thick, creamy texture. Set this blended mixture aside.
- Sauté scallions: In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the salted butter and add the sliced scallions. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine all corn mixtures: Add the remaining corn kernels to the pot along with the blended cream cheese-corn mixture, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the hot corn mixture into a greased casserole dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly. For a nicely browned top, optionally place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve warm as a delicious, creamy side dish.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth to keep this recipe vegetarian; chicken broth adds more savory depth if not vegetarian.
- Shredded cheddar will give a sharper flavor, while mozzarella yields a creamier, milder taste.
- If pressed for time, cream cheese can be softened in the microwave in short bursts, but be careful not to melt it.
- You can prepare the scallions and cilantro ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.
- This casserole pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a hearty side for Mexican-themed meals.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian