Name: cheesy fiesta corn casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each whole kernel corn, drained); 1 can (11 oz fiesta corn or Mexicorn, drained); 1 can (4 oz diced green chiles, drained); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ¼ cup sour cream; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); Optional: chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish; Optional topping: ½ cup crushed tortilla chips or jalapeños for extra crunch

Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that brings a Tex-Mex twist to your dinner table. With sweet corn, spicy green chiles, rich cream cheese, and melted cheddar, this casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of bold flavor. It’s a fantastic addition to holiday spreads, potlucks, taco nights, or any meal that needs a flavorful boost.

What Makes This Dish Special?

This casserole combines sweet, creamy, spicy, and savory elements all in one dish. The cream cheese base gives it a luxurious texture, while green chiles and spices add just enough heat. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be assembled in minutes using pantry staples. Whether served alongside grilled meats or tacos, it’s always a hit.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (11 oz) fiesta corn or Mexicorn, drained
1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup sour cream
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish
Optional topping: ½ cup crushed tortilla chips or jalapeños for extra crunch

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.

2. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained corn, fiesta corn, green chiles, cream cheese, sour cream, ¾ cup of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese. Add crushed tortilla chips or jalapeños if using.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

5. Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve warm.

Variations

Add Protein: Stir in cooked ground beef, taco meat, or shredded chicken to make it a full meal.
Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Creamy Taco Corn: Swap cheddar for pepper jack and mix in taco seasoning.
Bacon Twist: Stir in crispy bacon bits for added flavor and crunch.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Spatula or spoon
Casserole dish
Oven

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.

My Cooking Experience

I first made Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole for a taco night and was surprised at how fast it disappeared. It’s a perfect balance of creamy and zesty, and the convenience of canned ingredients makes it super quick to whip up. I often double the batch for gatherings because it’s always one of the first things to go.

Conclusion

Cheesy Fiesta Corn Casserole is a quick, vibrant, and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a new side for taco night or a hearty potluck contribution, this easy casserole brings the fiesta to your table with every bite.

Admin