Cheesy Skillet Corn Recipe

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:

  1. Heat the Skillet:
    • Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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!