Table of Contents: The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
Thanksgiving is all about warmth, gratitude, and indulgent comfort food—and this Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe delivers on all fronts. Creamy, buttery, and packed with rich flavors, this Thanksgiving corn side dish is destined to become a holiday staple. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or bringing a dish to share, this creamy corn casserole is foolproof, decadent, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews.
Perfect for busy home cooks, this recipe comes together with minimal effort but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The secret? A luscious blend of cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream that transforms simple frozen corn into a dish worthy of the centerpiece.
Introduction: The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
There’s something magical about a side dish that effortlessly steals the spotlight—and this Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe does just that. Imagine tender kernels of corn enveloped in a velvety, garlic-infused cream sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, leaving everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).
This Thanksgiving corn side dish is more than just a holiday favorite—it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that works for potlucks, Sunday dinners, and even weeknight comfort meals. The combination of cream cheese and butter creates an irresistibly rich texture, while garlic and onion powder add depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn.
If you’ve been searching for a creamy corn casserole that’s both easy and impressive, look no further. With just a handful of pantry staples and 30 minutes of hands-on time, this dish is a stress-free addition to any festive spread.
Alternate Names & Variations
This dish goes by many names, depending on where you’re from or what you’re craving:
– Creamy Corn Casserole
– Southern Corn Pudding
– Cheesy Corn Bake
– Corn Au Gratin
For a twist, try adding shredded cheddar cheese (see FAQ section for tips) or crispy bacon for extra smokiness. If you love spice, a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños can give it a kick.
Ingredients: The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe

- – 2 (16 oz) bags frozen whole kernel corn (thawed)
- – 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- – ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
- – ½ cup heavy cream
- – 1 tbsp sugar
- – 2 tsp garlic powder
- – 1 tsp onion powder
- – ¼ tsp black pepper (or more to taste)
- – ¼ tsp salt (or more to taste)
- – Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Pro Tip: Using frozen corn ensures a fresher taste, but canned corn (drained) works in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add cream cheese, heavy cream, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add Corn: Fold in thawed corn until fully coated in the creamy mixture.
4. Bake: Transfer to the baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
5. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Chef’s Tip: For extra richness, top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Recipe Card Block
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 8 | Calories: ~320 per serving
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
– Perfect Texture: The cream cheese and heavy cream create a luxuriously smooth sauce that clings to every kernel.
– Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble a day ahead and bake just before serving (see FAQs).
– Versatile: Works as a Thanksgiving corn side dish or a cozy weeknight indulgence.
Pro Tip: For a crispy topping, mix in breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers before baking.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
– Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freeze: Freeze unbaked casserole (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
– Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
People Also Ask: The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe

What’s the best recipe for Thanksgiving corn sides?
This Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe stands out for its creamy, comforting texture and rich flavor. Unlike basic corn dishes, it combines cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream for a decadent twist. The garlic and onion powder enhance the sweetness of the corn, making it a standout Thanksgiving corn side dish.
How do I make creamy corn casserole ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if needed. This makes it perfect for stress-free holiday prep!
Should I use frozen or canned corn for Thanksgiving dishes?
Frozen corn is ideal for its fresh taste and firm texture, but drained canned corn works in a pinch. Avoid creamed corn, as it alters the dish’s consistency.
How can I add cheese to corn casserole?
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère before baking. For a golden crust, sprinkle extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes.
Conclusion: The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
This creamy corn casserole is the ultimate Thanksgiving corn side dish—simple, indulgent, and unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving cozy comfort food, this recipe delivers every time.
Try it this holiday season and watch it become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments or tag us on social media—we love seeing your creations!
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The Best Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting corn dish perfect for your Thanksgiving table. It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the corn and cook for 6-8 minutes until heated through and creamy.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
You can use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: thanksgiving, corn, side dish, creamy, cheesy