Description
Garlic Butter Corn Cheese is a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish that combines sweet corn kernels with a rich blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and butter, infused with garlic and a hint of chili powder for a subtle kick. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect served warm alongside your favorite meals or as a tasty dip for chips and veggies.
Ingredients
Corn
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn) or 2 cans of corn, drained
Cheese Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, shuck the corn removing husks and silk, then rinse under cold water. Using a sharp knife, cut kernels off the cob, holding the ear upright over a bowl to catch them. If using canned corn, simply drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Cook Corn: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Stir in corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes if fresh, or 3-4 minutes if canned, until heated through.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and mayonnaise. Add chili powder if desired. Season with salt and pepper. Blend together until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Corn and Cheese Mixture: Remove skillet from heat and let corn cool slightly for about a minute. Add the cooked corn to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Preheat Oven and Transfer Mixture: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the corn and cheese mixture into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add Extra Cheese Topping: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve warm as a creamy side dish or as a dip with tortilla chips, bread, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Using fresh corn will give a sweeter, fresher flavor, but canned corn works well and is quicker to prepare.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic during sautéing to avoid bitter taste.
- Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, or omit for a milder dish.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.