Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

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Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

Corn Mac & Cheese Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with sweet corn. This hearty meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Corn Mac & Cheese Bake is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is a simple recipe that requires minimal ingredients. Second, the creamy cheese sauce combined with the sweetness of corn creates a delightful taste. Finally, it’s a filling dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Whether you have kids or are hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!

How to Make Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

Ingredients:

2 cups elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (2% or whole)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter.
Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
Melt 2 tbsp of butter in a medium saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for about a minute.
Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Cook until the sauce thickens (3-5 minutes), remove from heat, and fold in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Mix cooked macaroni and corn into the cheese sauce, transfer to the baking dish.
In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and sprinkle on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, serve warm.

How to Serve Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

Serve Corn Mac & Cheese Bake warm right out of the oven. It goes well with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also pair it with grilled chicken or ribs for a heartier meal.

How to Store Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Corn Mac & Cheese Bake

To make it extra creamy, try adding more cheese or using cream instead of milk.
If you like spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or chili powder.
For a crunchier topping, increase the amount of panko breadcrumbs.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese or adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with flavors to make it your own!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with Corn Mac & Cheese Bake?
This dish pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or grilled meats. It’s versatile and can fit into many meal themes.

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