Easy Cheesy Creamed Corn – Perfect Side Dish
Cheesy Creamed Corn: The Ultimate Comfort Side Dish You’ve Been Craving

There are some dishes that transcend mere sustenance, reaching deep into our culinary souls to deliver warmth, nostalgia, and pure, unadulterated comfort. Cheesy Creamed Corn is unequivocally one of them. Imagine plump, sweet corn kernels enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce, generously studded with melted cheese, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that simply melts in your mouth. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a hug on a plate, a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Here at magicinkitchen.com, we believe in elevating everyday meals, and this Cheesy Creamed Corn recipe is a testament to that philosophy. Get ready to transform your dinner table with a dish so profoundly satisfying, it will become an instant family favorite.
Recipe Card will be inserted here.
Quick Glance Summary
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes, 🍽️ Servings: 6, 💥 Vibe: Velvety, Decadent, Irresistible
Jump Ahead Section
What You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Cheesy Creamed Corn requires just a handful of accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that irresistible flavor profile. Gather these culinary heroes, and you’ll be well on your way to a truly remarkable side dish.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 16 oz (about 4 cups) frozen or fresh corn kernels, thawed if frozen
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (to enhance corn’s sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cheesy Creamed Corn

Creating this magnificent Cheesy Creamed Corn is surprisingly simple, yielding incredible results that taste far more complex than the effort involved. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly creamy, wonderfully cheesy masterpiece.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add the Corn: Stir in the corn kernels. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s fully thawed. Cook the corn for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing some of the moisture to evaporate and the kernels to develop a slight sweetness.
- Create the Creamy Base: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, luscious sauce.
- Season and Sweeten: Stir in the granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The sugar helps to balance the savory notes and enhance the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Introduce the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and optional Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until all the cheese has melted into the sauce, making it irresistibly gooey and decadent.
- Simmer to Perfection: Let the Cheesy Creamed Corn simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Do not boil.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat. Transfer the warm Cheesy Creamed Corn to a serving dish. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese and fresh chives or parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

While this classic Cheesy Creamed Corn recipe is perfection on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few ideas to customize your creamy corn experience:
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat) during step 4 for a vibrant heat.
- Bacon Bliss: Cook 3-4 strips of bacon until crispy, crumble, and stir into the Cheesy Creamed Corn just before serving. A touch of the rendered bacon fat can also replace some of the butter for extra flavor.
- Herb Garden Freshness: Experiment with fresh herbs beyond chives. A tablespoon of finely chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a mix of Italian herbs can add an elegant, earthy dimension to your Cheesy Creamed Corn.
- Smoked Goodness: Swap out half of the cheddar for smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a deeper, more complex smoky flavor profile.
- Crispy Toppings: Top your creamy corn with crushed buttery crackers, crispy fried onions, or even toasted breadcrumbs for an added textural contrast.
Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our beloved readers are saying about this Cheesy Creamed Corn:
- Sara L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: “Absolutely heavenly! This Cheesy Creamed Corn is a game-changer. My family devoured it, even my picky eater. So rich and easy to make!”
- Kesha T. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: “I’ve tried many creamed corn recipes, but this one from magicinkitchen.com is the best by far. The perfect balance of sweet and savory, and that cheese… wow!”
- Nolen P. ⭐⭐⭐⭐: “Delicious! I added a little smoked paprika for extra depth, and it was fantastic. A wonderful, comforting side dish for any occasion.”
FAQ
Got questions about making the perfect Cheesy Creamed Corn? We’ve got answers!
- Q: Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
- A: Yes, you can! Just be sure to drain it very well before adding it to the skillet. You might skip the initial cooking step for the corn if it’s already very soft, or cook just long enough to heat through.
- Q: How can I store leftover Cheesy Creamed Corn?
- A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it has thickened too much.
- Q: Can I make this Cheesy Creamed Corn ahead of time?
- A: Absolutely! You can prepare the Cheesy Creamed Corn a day in advance. Reheat it slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently, until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
- Q: What main dishes pair well with Cheesy Creamed Corn?
- A: This versatile side dish pairs wonderfully with almost anything! It’s a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, meatloaf, or even as part of your holiday feast. It also makes a fantastic addition to a potluck spread.
Conclusion
There you have it – the ultimate recipe for Cheesy Creamed Corn, a dish that promises to bring joy and warmth to your table with every single spoonful. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create culinary magic, to embrace the comforting power of simple ingredients beautifully combined. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a surefire hit, this Cheesy Creamed Corn will not disappoint. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it delivers that perfect cheesy goodness we all crave. We at magicinkitchen.com are passionate about sharing recipes that truly nourish both body and soul. Give this irresistible Cheesy Creamed Corn a try tonight, and prepare to fall in love. Happy cooking!
Recipe Note
For the creamiest texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This helps it melt smoothly and blend seamlessly into the sauce without lumps.

Cheesy Creamed Corn
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Side Dish, Holiday Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Calories: 350
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cups frozen corn (no need to thaw)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste, or omit for a less sweet dish)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the frozen corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through and slightly tender. Add the softened cream cheese cubes, heavy cream, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring often, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and smooth. Do not boil once the shredded cheese is added, as it can make the sauce oily. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Chef’s Notes: This rich and creamy cheesy creamed corn is a perfect side dish for any meal, from holiday dinners to weeknight family suppers. It’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
