If you’re craving a delightful snack that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet bursts of corn, you’re in for a treat with this Corn Cheese Recipe. Imagine luscious melted mozzarella melting over tender, buttery corn and crisp bell peppers, all brought together with just the right touch of seasoning and mayo. It’s an irresistible combination that feels both homey and a little indulgent, perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking bites during a cozy night in. Let me take you through every step of creating this comforting dish that’s quick to make yet big on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Corn Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, giving you that perfect golden, gooey dish you’ll want on repeat.
- Sweet corn kernels: Provide natural sweetness and a satisfying pop in every bite; use canned or fresh, well drained.
- Bell peppers: Add a subtle crunch and vibrant color to brighten the dish visually and texturally.
- Butter: Brings richness and helps soften the vegetables as a base for cooking.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The heart of the dish, delivering creamy meltiness and that irresistible stretch.
- Parsley flakes: A sprinkle for mild herbal notes and a pop of green that makes all the difference.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that elevates the overall flavor complexity.
- Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn without overpowering.
- Fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Ground black pepper: A touch of warmth and subtle spice to round out the taste.
How to Make Corn Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Combining the Corn and Peppers
Start by mixing your sweet corn kernels and diced bell peppers in a bowl, then add the mayo, sugar, sea salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful seasoning base. This simple mixture allows the sweetness of the corn and the bite of the peppers to mingle beautifully, ensuring each bite is bursting with taste. Mixing everything beforehand helps the flavors marry and guarantees even seasoning.
Step 2: Preparing the Skillet
Heat your skillet over medium-high and melt the butter, coating the pan with its richness. Reduce the heat to low, then spread your seasoned corn and pepper mixture evenly across the skillet. The butter not only prevents sticking but also infuses each kernel with a delicious creamy taste. Keeping the heat low now helps the corn warm through gently, preserving its tender texture without drying out.
Step 3: Melting the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the corn mixture and add the parsley flakes for that fresh herbal touch. Cover the skillet and allow the magic to happen as the cheese melts into a luscious blanket over the corn, taking about 4 to 5 minutes. For an extra golden crust, you can transfer the skillet to a hot oven or broiler for a few minutes. This step is what really brings the Corn Cheese Recipe to life, creating that gooey, bubbly top that’s truly irresistible.
How to Serve Corn Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the visual appeal and add a hint of freshness, sprinkle a few extra parsley flakes or finely chopped green onions just before serving. A light dusting of paprika or chili powder can also bring a subtle smoky kick, balancing the sweetness beautifully without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve this Corn Cheese Recipe alongside crispy grilled meats, fresh salads, or buttery bread for scooping up every cheesy bit. It pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a cold beer, making it a perfect appetizer or a delightful snack to share during gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the corn cheese in mini cast-iron skillets or individual ramekins for a charming touch. For a handheld twist, use it as a topping on toasted baguette slices or even tucked inside soft wraps with some fresh greens. The versatility of this dish means you can get as traditional or innovative as you like!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Corn Cheese is best kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to two days. Before storing, allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation, which can make the topping soggy.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh for that ideal cheesy texture, you can freeze leftovers by placing portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to one month, but be aware that the texture of the corn and cheese may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, place your portion in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the corn watery and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a lovely crunch and sweetness. Just cook the kernels lightly before mixing to soften them, ensuring they blend well with the other ingredients.
Is there a substitute for mozzarella cheese?
While mozzarella gives that perfect melt, you can try mild cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile, but keep an eye on melting properties as they vary.
Can I make the Corn Cheese Recipe vegan?
Yes, swap butter for a plant-based alternative, use vegan mayo, and choose a dairy-free cheese substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
How spicy can I make this dish?
If you enjoy spice, toss in finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when mixing the corn and mayo to give your Corn Cheese Recipe a warming kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used in this Corn Cheese Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to dive into this Corn Cheese Recipe. It’s one of those simple yet spectacular dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing side, I promise once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, get that cheese melting, and enjoy every gooey, sweet bite!
Print
Corn Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious Corn Cheese recipe combining sweet corn, bell peppers, creamy mayonnaise, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect as a comforting snack or side dish ready in just 12 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels (from a 420 g / 0.9 pounds tin), water drained
- 40 g bell peppers (1.4 ounces), diced
Dairy & Fats
- 15 g butter (0.5 ounces, salted butter recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings & Condiments
- 2 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
- A few sprinkles parsley flakes
- A few sprinkles fine sea salt
- A few sprinkles ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoned corn mixture: In a bowl, combine the sweet corn kernels, diced bell peppers, mayonnaise, sugar, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to evenly coat the vegetables with the seasoning sauce.
- Preheat and cook the vegetables: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once the butter melts, reduce the heat to low. Add the seasoned corn and bell pepper mixture, gently spreading it around the skillet for even cooking.
- Add cheese and melt: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and parsley flakes evenly over the corn mixture. Cover the skillet and cook over low heat until the cheese melts completely, about 4 to 5 minutes. For an alternative method, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 220°C (428°F) for approximately 5 minutes until the cheese is melted. For a browned cheese topping, use the broiler or grill function briefly at the end.
Notes
- You can use frozen corn instead of canned, but drain any excess water after thawing.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes.
- For a richer flavor, use salted butter as suggested, or adjust the salt according to taste.
- The dish can be served as a warm appetizer, snack, or side dish alongside grilled meats or salads.
- Using fresh mozzarella may increase melting time; shredded mozzarella is recommended for quick melting.