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Lightened-Up Creamy Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese: Easy 30-Minute Side

lightened up creamy corn casserole - featured image
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This lightened-up creamy corn casserole with cream cheese is a quick and easy side dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight dinners, and uses simple ingredients for a crowd-pleasing, comforting dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
  • 4 oz light cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional topping)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional topping)
  • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until completely smooth.
  4. Add the melted butter and beaten egg, whisking until fully incorporated. The mixture should be pale yellow and glossy.
  5. Stir in the sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly distributed.
  6. Fold in the drained whole kernel corn and cream-style corn using a rubber spatula until just combined. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Tap the dish gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
  8. If using the topping, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but slightly jiggly. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, ensure cream cheese is truly softened. If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well. For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. The casserole can be assembled without topping and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; add topping just before baking and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn casserole, creamy corn casserole, lightened-up corn casserole, cream cheese corn casserole, easy side dish, potluck recipe, 30-minute recipe

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/lightened-up-creamy-corn-casserole-with-cream-cheese-easy-30-minute-side/