If you are searching for a wonderfully creamy and comforting side dish to elevate your next meal, this Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Combining sweet corn, creamed corn, and a luscious cornbread mix, this casserole brings together all the best flavors in one easy, slow-cooked dish. The addition of cream cheese and sour cream lends it a rich, velvety texture, while garlic powder and smoked paprika add subtle layers of savory warmth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving a soul-soothing dish any day of the week, this recipe is a brilliant way to enjoy creamy, cheesy corn casserole without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that create a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Each element plays a vital role: the mix of whole corn and creamed corn brings both body and moistness, while the cornbread mix adds tender crumb and just the right hint of sweetness. The creamy components like cream cheese and sour cream give it dreamlike smoothness, and butter enriches the flavor. Let’s dive into what you’ll need.
- 30 ounces canned or frozen whole corn kernels, drained: Provides the fresh, natural sweetness and a pop of texture in every bite.
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans creamed corn: Adds moisture and creamy silkiness to the casserole.
- 2 (8-ounce) packages of cornbread mix: The base that ties everything together with just the right crumb and golden color.
- 8 ounces sour cream: Enhances richness and adds a tangy undertone that balances sweetness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: The star ingredient that makes the casserole irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- ½ stick unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Brings luscious buttery flavor and moisture as it melts slowly.
- 3 eggs: These bind the ingredients and help achieve the perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and warmth for greater depth.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Just enough spice to keep the flavors bright.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, finishing the casserole with a cheesy crown.
How to Make Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Before you get started, generously spray your slow cooker insert with a nonstick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick to the sides and makes cleanup a breeze. Set your slow cooker to low to get ready for the magic ahead.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In the prepared slow cooker, add the drained whole corn kernels, creamed corn, and cornbread mix. Next, spoon in the sour cream and cream cheese, breaking it up if needed so it blends smoothly. Scatter the butter pieces evenly across the top. Crack the eggs in, season with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until you have a cohesive batter with flecks of spice evenly distributed throughout.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook the casserole on low for about 4 hours. During this time, the heat slowly combines all those delicious ingredients into a creamy, tender masterpiece. Resist the urge to open the lid often — the low-and-slow method is key for perfect texture and flavor development.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Final Touches
About 15 minutes before the cooking time ends, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Recover and allow the cheese to melt until beautifully gooey. Once done, uncover and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes so it can set and become easier to serve.
How to Serve Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance your dish’s presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley on top. A light dusting of smoked paprika adds an inviting color pop and hint of aroma. For a touch of crunch, consider topping with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers right before serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines alongside roasted meats like turkey or ham, especially during holiday dinners. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or barbecue ribs. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies for a complete, comforting plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re celebrating or want to impress guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey jalapeño sauce for a fun twist. Leftover casserole repurposed as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or quesadillas makes for a delicious and creative next-day feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When refrigerated properly, the flavors meld even better, making reheated portions taste just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for longer storage. After it cools completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.
Reheating
The best method to reheat your leftovers is in a preheated oven at 350°F. Cover the casserole with foil to keep it moist and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. If the casserole seems a little dry, stir in a splash of cream or milk before reheating to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned or frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn cut from the cob works wonderfully if you want an even sweeter, fresher taste. Just make sure to remove the kernels completely and adjust moisture slightly if needed.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
You could substitute with a full-fat ricotta or mascarpone, though the texture and flavor will be a bit different. Cream cheese gives that classic creamy tang that’s hard to replicate, so it’s best if you can get some.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is perfect for vegetarians since it contains no meat ingredients and is packed with wholesome dairy and eggs. It’s a hearty and satisfying side that works well for meat-free meals.
Can I double the recipe to feed a larger group?
You sure can! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the doubled ingredients, or consider using two slow cookers. The cooking time should remain roughly the same, but start checking for doneness near the end.
How spicy is the casserole?
This casserole is very mild with just a hint of warmth from smoked paprika and black pepper. If you like more spice, you can easily add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—rich, creamy, and full of homey goodness. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on other parts of your meal or simply relax. I hope you give this recipe a try and find it as comforting and crowd-pleasing as I do. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion and one that you’ll want to add to your staples for good!
Print
Crockpot Corn Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Crockpot Corn Casserole combines sweet corn, creamed corn, and cornbread mix with sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and savory spices for a rich, comforting side dish. Easily prepared with less than 10 minutes of hands-on time and slow cooked to perfection, it’s a perfect holiday or family gathering addition that balances savory and sweet flavors with a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 ounces canned or frozen whole corn kernels, drained
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans creamed corn
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cornbread mix (like Jiffy corn muffin mix)
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ½ stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 3 eggs
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking and to help with easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the drained corn kernels, creamed corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, cream cheese, butter pieces, eggs, garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined into a uniform mixture.
- Cook the Casserole: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to set properly.
- Add Cheese: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Cover again to melt the cheese over the remaining cooking time.
- Rest and Serve: After the cooking time finishes, uncover and let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: The best method to reheat is in the oven. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place casserole dish on center rack and cover with foil to prevent drying. Bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Add a few tablespoons of cream or milk if it becomes too dry during reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American