About This Recipe
Corn casseroles are a timeless comfort food, bringing together sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of savory richness in one dish. This Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Corn Casserole simplifies the process by letting the slow cooker handle the hard work. With creamy corn, tangy cream cheese, and just the right blend of flavors, this side dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday spreads.
Unlike baked versions, using a slow cooker ensures a hands-off approach and keeps the casserole warm for serving. The result is a smooth, creamy, and indulgent dish with minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced into pieces
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a savory note)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease the insert with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add ingredients: Place the corn, cubed cream cheese, sliced butter, milk, sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder into the slow cooker. Stir to combine as best as possible.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring halfway through.
- Stir until smooth: After cooking, stir well until the cream cheese and butter are fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Optional cheese topping: Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover for 5 to 10 minutes, and let it melt.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm directly from the slow cooker.
Tips for Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. Reduced-fat versions may separate.
- Stir once during cooking to help distribute the cream cheese and butter.
- Adjust sweetness: Add or reduce sugar depending on whether you want a sweeter or more savory casserole.
- Use fresh corn if in season for the best flavor; just cut it off the cob.
- Keep it warm: Use the “warm” setting on your slow cooker to serve this dish buffet-style.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheesy corn casserole: Stir in extra shredded cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a cheesier dish.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Bacon twist: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon before serving for a smoky flavor.
- Herb upgrade: Fresh thyme, chives, or dill can elevate the flavor.
- Cornbread casserole style: Stir in a box of cornbread mix and 1 egg before cooking for a thicker, more cake-like side.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Make ahead: Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place it in the slow cooker and cook as directed.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream cheese base can separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring to maintain creaminess.
FAQ
Can I make this with canned corn?
Yes. Drain canned corn well before using to avoid excess liquid.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to use a large slow cooker (6 quarts or more). Increase cooking time slightly if needed.
Can I cook it on the stovetop instead?
Yes. Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese first?
Not necessary. Cubing the cream cheese helps it melt evenly as it cooks.
You Must Know
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is that it turns humble corn into a luxurious side dish. The slow cooker keeps the texture smooth and prevents burning or drying out, something that can happen in the oven. The cream cheese acts as the base, while butter and milk enhance richness. This dish can be adjusted to taste—sweet for those who love classic creamed corn, or savory with herbs and garlic for a more complex profile.
The key is patience. Allowing the casserole to cook slowly ensures all ingredients meld together, creating a dish that is both simple and indulgent.
Nutritional Profile (per serving, approx. 8 servings)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Values vary depending on added cheese, sugar, or optional mix-ins.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that requires almost no effort, Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is the answer. Creamy, flavorful, and versatile, it is a recipe you can rely on for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.