Irresistible Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole. Imagine a golden, cheesy concoction bubbling in the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that could make even the crankiest of cats purr with delight. Each spoonful is a delightful blend of sweet corn and spicy jalapeños, making your taste buds do a happy dance.

This dish isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in while binge-watching your favorite series. Trust me when I say this Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole will elevate your dining experience to new heights. The anticipation builds as you await that first bite—cheesy goodness and a kick of spice all in one.

Last Thanksgiving, my cousin tried this casserole for the first time and jokingly declared it “the best thing since sliced bread” while fighting off seconds and thirds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sweet Corn: Fresh or frozen corn works beautifully; just ensure it’s sweet and plump for the best flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a deeper flavor; it melts perfectly into gooey goodness.
• Jalapeños: Adjust the heat by using fresh or pickled jalapeños—both bring unique flavor profiles.
• Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness that elevates the casserole to another level.
• Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together while adding a nice fluffiness to the texture.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for a creamy consistency; don’t skimp here!
• Baking Powder: A little leavening agent ensures your casserole rises beautifully in the oven.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all of those delicious flavors!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when you are.

Prepare your baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking later on.

Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any desired spices to create a flavorful base.

Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream cheese until smooth; then fold in shredded cheddar cheese and jalapeños.

Combine mixtures: Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing for optimal texture.

Bake: Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Cool slightly before serving: Allow cooling for about 10 minutes; this helps set the texture and makes serving easier.

Serve warm with toppings: Enjoy as is or add toppings like sour cream or green onions for an extra burst of flavor!

This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines sweetness, spice, and richness in every bite. With a crispy top and creamy interior, it’s sure to bring joyous smiles at the dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare your ingredients. Sauté jalapeños first to release their flavor, then mix them with corn and cheese before baking. This sequence ensures that each layer of flavor develops fully while your casserole bakes to golden perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese if you’re looking for an extra kick. You can also add cooked bacon bits or black beans for additional texture and taste. Personalizing this casserole makes it uniquely yours, turning a simple dish into something special every time you serve it.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before popping it back in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through. This helps revive its delicious creamy texture while adding an extra layer of cheesiness.

The first time I made this Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole was during a family gathering. Everyone was raving about it, and my cousin even suggested I should open a restaurant! That moment made me realize just how powerful good food can be—it brings people together!

FAQ

What can I substitute for corn in Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole?

If you’re looking to replace corn, consider using canned or frozen peas or diced bell peppers as alternatives. These options maintain a similar texture while contributing their own unique flavors. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly so they soften properly before serving.

Can I make Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole up to two days in advance. Simply assemble it without baking, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven—no fuss!

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is perfectly baked when it’s bubbly around the edges and has a beautiful golden-brown top. To ensure it’s cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs sticking to it.

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones?

Definitely! Fresh jalapeños offer a brighter flavor compared to pickled ones but might be spicier depending on variety. Slice them finely and sauté them before adding them into your casserole for an incredible depth of flavor.

Conclusion for Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole

Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole is not just another side dish; it’s an experience packed with flavors that dance on your palate! With its creamy texture, spicy kick from jalapeños, and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to favorite for gatherings or quiet nights at home. Remember: personalize it as you see fit!

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Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole

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Cheddar & Jalapeño Corn Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful kick of spice. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With its beautiful golden crust and rich flavors, every bite will leave you craving more. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this casserole transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping experience that will impress everyone at your table.

• Author: Cathy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cream cheese until smooth. Fold in cheddar cheese and jalapeños.
4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures until just blended; do not overmix.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.
7. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Substitute pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick. Add cooked bacon bits or black beans for added texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.