This Cheesy Skillet Corn recipe is a deliciously creamy and savory side dish that comes together quickly and effortlessly. Featuring a rich blend of cheeses and the natural sweetness of corn, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner or as a festive side during gatherings. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the Skillet:
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely.
- Cook the Corn:
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet. If you’re using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it first. Cook the corn in the melted butter for about 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden and is heated through.
- Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese cubes. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is melted and smoothly coats the corn.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Mix in Cheddar Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the corn mixture. Allow it to melt into the corn, stirring gently to combine into a creamy, cheesy mixture.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cheese has fully melted and the corn is creamy, remove the skillet from the heat.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh chives for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses.
Tips:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn can be used when in season; just cut the kernels off the cob. Frozen corn is a convenient alternative that works equally well and is available year-round.
- Variations: To add a spicy kick to the dish, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Additional Flavors: For an extra savory note, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or mixing in some crumbled bacon for a smoky, meaty flavor.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Skillet Corn is a crowd-pleaser with its comforting, creamy texture and rich flavor profile. It’s an excellent side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, BBQ, or even as a festive addition to holiday meals. Easy to make and universally loved, this skillet corn is sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet corn and melty cheese in every bite!