Name: Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese.; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.; 3/4 cup milk.; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened.; 2/3 cup sliced green onion, divided.; 1 teaspoon hot sauce.; 2 (15.25 oz.) cans whole kernel corn, well drained.; 2 (15.25 oz.) cans whole kernel Mexicorn or Fiesta Corn with red & green peppers, drained.; 1/2 to 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapeno (about 4 to 6 slices).; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional).

This Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole is a perfect side dish for any meal. Start by combining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper in a bowl. Set this aside. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, mix 3/4 cup of milk, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup of sliced green onions, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, and 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of chopped pickled jalapenos. Add 2 drained cans of whole kernel corn and 2 drained cans of Mexicorn with red and green peppers. Stir in the cheese mixture until everything is well combined. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with the remaining green onions, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and has just the right amount of heat.

This Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any family dinner or gathering. The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheeses creates a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. Easy to prepare, this casserole can be a great side dish or even a main course. With ingredients like shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, and Mexicorn, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone. Let's dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this savory and comforting casserole.

Ingredients

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to make Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the casserole.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Provides a creamy and mild taste that complements the cheddar.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the casserole mixture.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and enhances the flavor.
3/4 cup milk: Creates a creamy base for the casserole.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
2/3 cup sliced green onion, divided: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor. Use half in the mixture and half for topping.
1 teaspoon hot sauce: Adds a hint of heat to the casserole.
2 (15.25 oz.) cans whole kernel corn, well drained: Provides sweetness and texture.
2 (15.25 oz.) cans whole kernel Mexicorn or Fiesta Corn with red & green peppers, drained: Adds a colorful and flavorful touch.
1/2 to 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapeno (about 4 to 6 slices): Adds a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herby flavor and a pop of color.

These ingredients come together to create a casserole that is both comforting and full of flavor. The combination of cheeses, corn, and jalapeños makes this dish a standout at any meal.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your own Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole. This recipe is simple to follow and ensures a deliciously cheesy and flavorful result.

Step 1: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, toss together 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a 9x13-inch baking dish, mix together 3/4 cup milk, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup sliced green onions, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, and 1/2 to 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapenos. Stir until the cream cheese is well incorporated.

Step 3: Add Corn and Cheese

Add 2 cans of well-drained whole kernel corn and 2 cans of well-drained Mexicorn or Fiesta Corn to the baking dish. Pour the shredded cheese mixture over the corn. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt throughout the casserole.

Step 5: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of sliced green onions over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the top to become slightly crispy and the onions to cook through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the casserole hot, directly from the baking dish.

These steps ensure that your Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole turns out perfectly every time. The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheeses makes this dish a standout addition to any meal.

Serving Tips

Serve Hot: This casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. The cheese will be gooey, and the flavors will be perfectly melded.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Accompaniments: This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired amount of casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method will maintain the texture better.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Here are some variations and tips to make your Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole even better:

Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses such as sharp cheddar, Colby-Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chopped pickled jalapeños to suit your heat preference. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
Add-Ins: Consider adding other ingredients like cooked bacon bits, diced bell peppers, or even a handful of black beans for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Here are some insights from well-known chefs about making the perfect casserole:

"The key to a great casserole is balancing flavors and textures. Make sure each ingredient complements the others." - Chef Ina Garten

"Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and spices to make the dish your own." - Chef Bobby Flay

Feel free to try these variations and tips to make your Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole uniquely delicious. It’s sure to be a favorite at any table!