Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie: A Comforting Culinary Delight

When it comes to heartwarming and comforting dishes, a savory pie often tops the list. This Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and the natural sweetness of corn, making it an ideal dish for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a delightful brunch option, a unique side dish, or a satisfying main course, this pie is sure to impress. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons of butter (plus additional for greasing the dish)
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1 medium garlic clove, minced
  • 4 cups fresh or thawed corn kernels (approximately 6 large ears)
  • 2/3 cup milk (half plant milk and half dairy milk, or half and half)
  • 2 cups (about 8 ounces) grated soft cheese (half mild cheddar and half fontina)
  • 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
  • 3 eggs
  • Paprika (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of extra butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Cooking the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic.
  3. Corn Mixture: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender. Take the skillet off the heat and allow it to cool down for a few minutes.
  4. Combining Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Stir in the grated cheddar and fontina cheeses, panko bread crumbs, salt, ground white pepper, and chopped fresh chives if using.
  5. Mixing the Pie Filling: Add the cooked corn mixture to the bowl and stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  6. Assembling the Pie: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with a light dusting of paprika for added color and flavor, if desired.
  7. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown.
  8. Serving: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm as a satisfying main course or a robust side dish.

Conclusion:

This Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together the sweetness of corn and the richness of cheese. It’s perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed by all. The combination of mild cheddar and fontina creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy panko topping. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!