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Best Quick Creamy Cheddar Corn Casserole with Jalapeno

creamy cheddar corn casserole with jalapeno - featured image

A quick and easy creamy cheddar corn casserole with jalapeno, perfect for weeknights and potlucks. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick)
  • ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups frozen corn (about 14 ounces)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) canned corn, drained
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for topping)
  • ¼ cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the diced jalapeno and minced garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the frozen corn and drained canned corn. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes to warm through.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese in small chunks, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated (about 2 minutes).
  6. Add the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir until well combined and smooth.
  7. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Reserve the remaining ½ cup for topping.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
  9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for a browner top.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, let cream cheese come to room temperature before using. Use a mix of frozen and canned corn for optimal texture. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to the baking dish before baking. The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, creamy cheddar corn, jalapeno corn casserole, quick side dish, potluck recipe, easy corn casserole