This Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn is the perfect dish for all that gorgeous summer sweet corn. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor and just delicious!

Creamy & Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, the irresistible aroma of backyard barbecues begins to fill the air. Whether you’re firing up the grill for juicy steaks, savory chicken, classic burgers, or hot dogs, every great main course deserves an equally spectacular side. This year, elevate your outdoor dining experience with a truly exceptional dish: Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn. This recipe is a showstopper, boasting a rich, creamy texture, savory bits of ham and bacon, and a generous blanket of melted cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Inspired by the renowned culinary traditions of Kansas City, known for its hearty, comforting flavors, this corn dish captures the essence of Midwestern hospitality. It’s more than just a side; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, particularly that sweet, succulent corn that becomes abundant this time of year. While this recipe is a perfect companion for grilling season, its comforting appeal makes it a fantastic addition to your table any time of the year. You’ll only need a handful of accessible ingredients and less than 30 minutes to bring this incredibly delicious and satisfying dish to life.

Why This Cheesy Corn Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons why this Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn has quickly become a beloved staple in many homes. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet delivers a complex depth of flavor that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Unbeatable Flavor Profile: This dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of summer corn with the smoky, salty notes of bacon and ham. The addition of creamy cheese and a hint of spice creates a harmonious symphony of tastes that is utterly addictive.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to whole milk and cream cheese, every spoonful is luxuriously smooth and velvety, coating the tender corn kernels in a decadent sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, offering a delightful contrast to crisp grilled meats.
• Quick & Easy Preparation: Forget complicated recipes! This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or as a last-minute addition to your barbecue spread. Minimal effort, maximum reward!
• Versatile Pairing: While it shines alongside a smoky brisket or a perfectly grilled steak, it’s equally fantastic with a simple roasted chicken, barbecued ribs, or even as a standalone vegetarian meal (by omitting the meats). Its adaptability makes it a go-to for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, the combination of corn, cheese, bacon, and ham is universally loved. Be prepared for rave reviews and requests for the recipe!

This recipe, adapted from America’s Test Kitchen’s “One-Hour Comfort” cookbook, is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. It’s a guaranteed hit that brings warmth and flavor to any meal.

Essential Ingredients for Kansas City-Style Cheesy Corn

Crafting this incredible side dish requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its signature flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:

• Bacon: A cornerstone of flavor. Two slices, cut into ½-inch pieces, are rendered until crispy, providing a smoky foundation and delightful crunch. Opt for thick-cut bacon for extra texture and flavor.
• Sweet Corn: The star of the show. Four ears of fresh sweet corn, shucked and cut from the cob, yield approximately 3 cups. Fresh corn, especially during peak season, offers unparalleled sweetness and a tender pop. However, if fresh corn isn’t available, a 14-ounce bag of high-quality frozen corn (thawed and drained) makes an excellent substitute without compromising much on taste or texture.
• Ham Steak: Adds a savory, meaty depth. 4 ounces of ham steak, cut into ½-inch cubes, complements the bacon and corn beautifully. You can use leftover holiday ham or a pre-packaged ham steak for convenience.
• Whole Milk: The base for our creamy sauce. One cup of whole milk ensures a rich and luscious consistency. While other milk types can be used, whole milk provides the best body and flavor for this decadent dish.
• Cream Cheese: The secret to ultimate creaminess. 8 ounces of softened cream cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, tangy, and incredibly rich coating for the corn. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier blending.
• Granulated Garlic: For a subtle, aromatic kick. One teaspoon of granulated garlic provides a mellow garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning. ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper balances and enhances all the other flavors. Adjust to your personal preference.
• Cayenne Pepper: A touch of warmth. ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper introduces a gentle heat that brightens the dish without making it overtly spicy. Feel free to increase or decrease this amount based on your heat tolerance.
• Yellow Cheddar Cheese: The final cheesy flourish. 6 ounces of shredded yellow cheddar, divided, provides that classic gooey, golden-brown topping. Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly and has a better flavor than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.

Step-By-Step Instructions for Perfect Cheesy Corn

Creating this delicious Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps for a flawless result:

1. Prepare Your Broiler and Bacon: Begin by positioning your oven rack about 6 inches from the broiling element and preheat your broiler. While the oven warms, place the bacon pieces in a large, sturdy skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is delightfully crispy and golden brown, typically about 5-6 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving a small amount of the rendered fat in the skillet for extra flavor.
2. Sauté Corn and Ham with Spices: To the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the fresh corn kernels, cubed ham, whole milk, softened cream cheese, granulated garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Use a rubber spatula to break up the cream cheese as it softens and stir all the ingredients together thoroughly. Continue to cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture starts bubbling gently around the edges of the skillet, usually after about 8 minutes. This step ensures all flavors meld beautifully.



3. Add First Layer of Cheese and Transfer: Turn off the heat. Stir one cup of the shredded yellow cheddar cheese into the hot corn mixture until it has fully melted and is seamlessly incorporated, creating an even cheesier, richer sauce.



4. Broil for Golden Perfection: Carefully transfer the creamy corn mixture into a broiler-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Place the dish under the preheated broiler. Broil for approximately 3 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and has developed a few inviting spotty brown patches. Keep a very close eye on the oven during this stage, as broilers can toast cheese quickly, and you want to prevent burning.



5. Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is perfectly golden and melted, remove the dish from the oven and serve immediately. The warmth and creaminess are at their peak right out of the broiler. Enjoy this utterly delicious side!

Expert Tips for the Best Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn

While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few seasoned cook’s notes can elevate your dish from delicious to absolutely unforgettable:

• Corn Selection: For the ultimate flavor, always opt for fresh sweet corn when it’s in season. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully and provide a vibrant taste. If fresh corn isn’t available, high-quality frozen corn is your next best bet. Avoid canned corn, as it often lacks the texture and sweetness needed for this dish.
• Cheese Variations: The recipe suggests yellow cheddar for its classic flavor and melting properties. However, don’t hesitate to experiment! A combination of yellow cheddar and Jalapeño Jack cheese adds a wonderful spicy kick. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoked gouda could offer interesting flavor twists. Freshly shredding your cheese will always yield a smoother melt than pre-shredded options.
• Broiling Wisdom: The broiler is your friend, but it demands attention! Cheese can go from perfectly melted and browned to burnt in a matter of seconds. Keep a vigilant eye on the oven during the broiling step. You’re looking for that bubbly, golden-brown finish with just a few crispy spots, not charred cheese. Every broiler is different, so adjust timing as needed.
• Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This makes it much easier to break up and incorporate smoothly into the hot liquid, preventing lumps and ensuring a consistently creamy sauce.
• Enhancing Smoky Flavor: If you’re a big fan of smoky flavors, consider using a smoked ham steak or adding a tiny pinch of smoked paprika along with your other spices.
• Make-Ahead & Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can prepare the corn mixture (before the final broiling step) ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, transfer to a broiler-safe dish, top with the remaining cheese, and broil until heated through and golden. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently in the microwave or oven, though the cheesy topping may lose some of its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with Cheesy Corn?

This Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn is incredibly versatile and can accompany a wide array of main dishes. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own as a light meal but truly shines as a complementary side. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

• The Ultimate BBQ Partner: Its rich and smoky flavors make it an ideal partner for any grilled or smoked meat. Think perfectly seared steaks, tender pulled pork, slow-cooked ribs, or smoky barbecue chicken.
• Classic American Fare: Pair it with backyard classics like juicy grilled burgers, gourmet hot dogs, or even crispy fried chicken for a comforting, homestyle meal.
• Holiday Spreads: The comforting nature of this dish makes it a wonderful addition to holiday feasts, from Thanksgiving and Christmas to Easter. It’s a delightful alternative or complement to traditional mashed potatoes or green bean casseroles.
• Simple Weeknight Dinners: Serve it alongside a roasted chicken, pan-seared pork chops, or a simple baked fish for an elevated weeknight dinner that feels special.
• Vegetarian Options: While it contains bacon and ham, a vegetarian version (by omitting the meats and perhaps adding smoked paprika for depth) would be fantastic with black bean burgers or a hearty lentil loaf.

No matter what you choose to pair it with, this Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn is guaranteed to be a hit. Its irresistible taste and creamy texture will make it a memorable part of any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh sweet corn is preferable for its natural sugars and vibrant flavor, a 14-ounce bag of high-quality frozen corn (thawed and drained) works wonderfully. It’s a convenient option when fresh corn is out of season.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper to ½ teaspoon or more, to taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices, or using a spicy cheese like jalapeño jack in addition to or instead of cheddar, will also amp up the heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and ham. To compensate for the lost smoky and savory flavors, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a little extra salt. You might also consider sautéing some diced bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.

What kind of ham should I use?

A simple ham steak, cut into ½-inch cubes, is perfect. You can also use leftover holiday ham, pre-cooked diced ham, or even finely diced Canadian bacon for a slightly different flavor profile. The key is to use a pre-cooked ham that’s easy to cube.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the corn and creamy sauce mixture up to the point before broiling. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, transfer the mixture to a broiler-safe dish, top with the remaining cheddar, and broil until heated through and golden brown. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.

More Delicious Summer Side Dish Recipes to Enjoy

Looking for more fantastic sides to complete your summer meals? Here are a few more favorites:

• Texas Caviar
• Summer Tomato Pie
• Spicy Sweet Potato Salad

Final Thoughts on This Cheesy Delight

This Cheesy Kansas City-Style Corn isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. It brings together the simple goodness of sweet corn with the indulgent richness of cheese, bacon, and ham, creating a side dish that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a grand barbecue, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply craving some comforting flavors, this dish delivers on all fronts.

So, gather your ingredients, prepare to be amazed, and make this incredible cheesy corn a centerpiece of your next meal. We promise it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to let us know if you give this recipe a try or if you have any questions – we’d love to hear from you in the comments below! Happy cooking!