Southern Corn Delight

Southern Corn Delight is a comforting and cheesy side dish that brings together the sweetness of corn, the kick of jalapeños, and the richness of cream cheese and cheddar. Perfectly baked to a bubbly, golden finish, this dish is ideal for adding a touch of Southern flair to your meals.

Whether served as a savory side or a standalone treat, it’s sure to delight with its blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and zesty flavor.

Southern Corn Delight

Ingredients

3.5 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

½ large red bell pepper, diced

2 fresh jalapeño peppers, diced (seeds/veins removed)

3-4 tablespoons diced pickled jalapeño peppers (plus extra to taste)

2.5 tablespoons butter

4 oz cream cheese

¼ teaspoon paprika (regular, not smoked)

1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Extras:

Hot sauce

Extra cheese for topping

Additional jalapeños for an extra kick!

Spicy green salsa (see note below)

Cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F. If using frozen corn, thaw it beforehand. Dice the red bell pepper and fresh jalapeños and set aside.

Sauté Peppers (Optional): For a softer texture, sauté the diced red bell pepper and fresh jalapeños in a small amount of oil until tender.

Create the Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and cream cheese together over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Combine Ingredients: Add the corn, sautéed bell pepper, fresh jalapeños, and diced pickled jalapeños to the saucepan. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.

Add Cheese: Stir in ½ to ¾ cup of the grated cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the mixture is well combined.

Bake: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly.

Serve and Garnish: Optionally, top with hot sauce, additional jalapeños, or extra cheese. Garnish with cilantro or parsley, and serve with spicy green salsa if desired.

Enjoy your Southern Corn Delight!

Notes:

Corn Options: You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn for this recipe. If using frozen corn, ensure it is thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Pepper Preference: For a milder dish, reduce or omit the fresh jalapeños. Adjust the amount of pickled jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.

Sautéing Peppers: Sautéing the bell pepper and fresh jalapeños before adding them to the dish can enhance their flavor and soften their texture. This step is optional but recommended for a more tender result.

Cream Cheese Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before melting to avoid lumps. You can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.

Cheese Variations: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust flavor, but you can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses if preferred.

Texture and Topping: For a crunchier top, you can add extra cheese or breadcrumbs before baking. Broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking for a golden, crispy top.

Adjusting Spice Level: If you like it spicier, add more pickled jalapeños or hot sauce. Conversely, you can reduce or omit the jalapeños for a milder version.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with grilled meats, barbecues, or as a hearty side to a main course. It can also be served as a standalone appetizer or light meal.

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Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Simply bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Garnishing: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor. A dollop of spicy green salsa can also complement the dish well.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with a lighter option?

Yes, you can use light or reduced-fat cream cheese as a substitute.

This will reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

What can I use instead of sharp cheddar cheese?

You can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

However, sharp cheddar adds a distinctive flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more fresh or pickled jalapeños, or include a splash of hot sauce or extra spicy green salsa for added heat.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time.

Assemble it and refrigerate before baking.

When ready to serve, bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of peppers, such as poblano or Anaheim, for different flavor profiles.

Adjust the quantity based on their heat level.

What if I don’t have a casserole dish?

If you don’t have a casserole dish, you can use any oven-safe dish or even a skillet.

Ensure it’s appropriately greased and can handle the oven’s heat.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish.

Assemble and bake it, then cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheat thoroughly before serving.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

You can add extra vegetables or beans for added texture and flavor.