Creamy, cheesy, and so simple, this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn combines frozen corn, cream cheese, cheddar, and butter for the perfect side dish.
Let me set the scene: it’s a hectic Wednesday evening. I’ve got emails to respond to, the kids are arguing over who gets the last juice box, and dinner? Let’s just say it’s looking like a mystery at this point. Sound familiar? That’s when my slow cooker becomes my best friend, and this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn recipe comes to the rescue.
I first made this dish a couple of years ago for Thanksgiving, and let me tell you—it completely stole the show. My mom, who’s a bit of a side-dish snob (love you, Mom), actually went for seconds and asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew I had a winner on my hands.
Since then, it’s become a regular in my rotation. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a casual potluck, or just one of those nights where I need dinner to make itself, this creamy, cheesy corn never lets me down. And the best part? It’s so easy that even on my busiest days, I can pull it off. Seriously, if you’ve got five minutes and a slow cooker, you’ve got this.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn Recipe?
Why is this Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn a must-make? Let me count the ways:
- Ridiculously Easy: Five minutes of prep, and your slow cooker does the rest. It’s basically magic.
- Ultra Comforting: Cream cheese and cheddar create the kind of rich, velvety texture that makes you want to cozy up with a big bowl.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a random Tuesday, this dish feels both special and totally doable.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters can’t resist it. Trust me—this stuff disappears fast.
Ingredient Notes:
This recipe is simple, but every ingredient plays a key role. Here’s the rundown:
- Frozen Corn: The base of the dish. Frozen corn is sweet, convenient, and holds up beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Cream Cheese: The MVP of creaminess. It melts into the corn for a texture that’s out of this world.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy kick that balances the richness.
- Butter: Because buttery goodness makes everything better, right?
- Heavy Cream: Takes the creaminess to the next level. If you’re out, half-and-half works too, but the cream is worth it.
- Salt and Pepper: The unsung heroes. These simple seasonings make all the flavors pop.
How To Make Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn?
Here’s how to whip up this creamy, cheesy masterpiece:
- Start with the Corn:
Toss both packages of frozen corn into your slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw—just pour them straight in. This is the foundation of your dish, and trust me, it’s about to get good. - Add the Creamy Goodness:
Next, add the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, butter, and heavy cream. This is where the magic happens. These ingredients will melt together to create the ultimate creamy sauce. - Season to Perfection:
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. It’s amazing how these tiny additions can make such a big difference. - Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW. Now you’ve got 3½ to 4 hours to kick back while your kitchen starts smelling like cheesy heaven. - Midway Stir:
About halfway through cooking, give everything a gentle stir. This helps the cheese melt evenly and ensures every bite is perfectly coated. - Final Touch:
Once the cooking time is up, give it one last stir. The result? Creamy, cheesy perfection. It’s rich, flavorful, and totally irresistible. - Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop it into a serving dish and get ready for rave reviews. Trust me, this dish always gets a standing ovation (or at least an empty serving bowl).
Storage Options:
Got leftovers? Lucky you. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
Want To Save This Recipe?
Enter your email below and we'll send the recipe straight to your inbox.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat before serving.
Variations and Substitutions:
Feeling creative? Try these twists:
- Add Some Heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Switch the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a different flavor.
- Bacon Makes It Better: Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky, salty crunch.
- Fresh Herb Vibes: Stir in some chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, herby finish.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn?
This creamy cheddar corn is the ultimate side dish, but it shines even brighter when paired with:
- BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork: The smoky, savory flavors of BBQ are perfect with this rich, cheesy dish.
- Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Holiday Turkey or Ham: This dish deserves a spot on your holiday table.
- Warm Dinner Rolls: Use them to scoop up every last bit of that creamy sauce—it’s worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen?
Yep! Fresh corn works great—just cut it off the cob. If you’re using canned corn, make sure to drain it well first.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it in the slow cooker, refrigerate, and reheat on LOW when you’re ready to serve.
How can I keep the cheese from clumping?
Stir about halfway through cooking. It helps the cheese melt evenly and keeps everything smooth.
And there you have it: Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn, the dish that’s easy, cheesy, and always a hit. Whether you’re serving it at a big family dinner or just making a cozy weeknight meal, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Can’t wait to hear what you think—drop me a comment after you’ve tried it!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn
Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce package frozen corn
- 1 12-ounce package frozen corn
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Begin by adding the frozen corn, both packages of it, into your trusty slow cooker. It's like setting the stage for corny greatness.
- Now, take the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, butter, and heavy cream and toss them into the mix. It's time for the creamy orchestra to perform its magic!
- Don't forget the salt and pepper. Sprinkle them in like confetti at a celebration. These humble seasonings have a way of making everything sing in harmony.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW heat. This is where the real magic happens. Let your concoction simmer and mingle for a good 3½ to 4 hours. Patience is key here.
- About halfway through the cooking time, give it a gentle stir. Think of it as your dish's mid-concert encore. This ensures that every bite is pure harmony.
- After those hours have passed and the aromas are driving you wild, it's time for the grand finale. Stir once more to ensure that every note of flavor is perfectly in tune.
- Plate your Slow Cooker Creamy Cheddar Corn and get ready for a standing ovation from your taste buds. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy masterpiece you've created!
Notes
Nutrition
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!