Cheesy Corn

Cheesy Corn

8 servings
Like mac & cheese but made with corn kernels and chunks of ham, this Cheesy corn will be your new favorite side dish! Perfect for holiday dinners or serving with everything from barbecue or grilled meat to roast chicken!

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons salted butter
  • 4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese

    grated

  • 4 ounces cream cheese

    cubed

  • 3 3/4 cups fresh or frozen corn)

    (three 10-ounce bags frozen whole kernel corn

  • 4 ounces diced ham steak

    or leftover ham

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sprinkle flour and garlic powder over the melted butter, then whisk together and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a simple roux.

  3. 3

    Whisk in the milk, then simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened and bubbly.

  4. 4

    Add cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined into the sauce.

  5. 5

    Stir in corn and diced ham. Transfer to a square baking dish or casserole dish. Cover with foil.

  6. 6

    Bake for 40-45 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Cheesy Corn

Cheesy Corn

5.0(20)55 min8 servings

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 20 ratings

houseofnasheats.com
5.0(20 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Looking for a comforting side dish that feels both familiar and exciting? This Cheesy Corn recipe is about to become your new go-to, offering a delightful twist on classic cheesy goodness perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to everyday dinners.

This recipe works wonders because it takes the beloved concept of mac and cheese and cleverly applies it to sweet corn kernels, creating an unbelievably creamy and savory experience. The addition of diced ham elevates it from a simple side to a more substantial, flavor-packed accompaniment that truly stands out.

Prepare for a side dish that's incredibly rich, velvety, and undeniably cheesy. You'll savor the robust flavor of sharp cheddar perfectly balanced by the smooth, luxurious texture of cream cheese, all generously coating tender corn kernels. The savory chunks of ham provide a delightful counterpoint, adding depth and a hearty element that makes each bite satisfying and comforting. This dish promises a warm, inviting flavor profile that appeals to all ages.

Want to make it your own? While sharp cheddar and cream cheese are stellar, feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder profile. If you don't have ham steak, cooked and crumbled bacon or even shredded cooked chicken would make excellent substitutions. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and perhaps add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth.

This Cheesy Corn is versatile enough to grace your holiday dinner table, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or a classic roast. It's designed to be a standout side that complements a wide array of main courses.

Frequently Asked Questions