Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to prepare, this Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn stands out as the ultimate side dish. Whether gracing your family dinner table or serving as a standout accompaniment for a festive holiday feast, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
Are you a devoted fan of pimento cheese? If so, prepare to have your taste buds delighted! This Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn recipe delivers an unparalleled experience of creaminess and rich, savory cheese flavor, making it an absolute dream for any pimento cheese enthusiast. Crafted with simplicity in mind, it utilizes readily available canned whole corn kernels, transforming them into a luxurious side that promises to elevate your culinary repertoire, especially for this year’s holiday gatherings.
What is Pimento Cheese? A Southern Culinary Gem
Pimento cheese is more than just a spread; it’s a deeply cherished Southern staple, often affectionately referred to as the “pâté of the South.” At its core, it’s a vibrant, flavorful dip or spread crafted from a blend of shredded cheese (typically cheddar), creamy mayonnaise, and finely chopped pimentos. While its basic components are simple, the magic lies in the balance and quality of ingredients, creating a versatile condiment that transcends mere snack status.
Historically, pimento cheese has roots stretching back to the early 20th century, gaining popularity across the Southern United States. Each family, and indeed each state, often boasts its unique take on the recipe, leading to a delightful spectrum of variations. Some prefer a sharper cheddar, others a milder blend. The type of mayonnaise can also spark lively debates among connoisseurs, with some insisting on specific brands for their distinct tang or richness. Beyond its traditional role as a spread for crackers or celery, pimento cheese has found its way into countless applications, from elevating burgers and sandwiches to becoming a decadent addition to grilled cheese, creamy grits, or even a savory morning omelette. Its unique flavor profile—a harmonious blend of salty, creamy, and subtly sweet from the pimentos—makes it irresistibly addictive and endlessly adaptable.
Why This Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
If you’re already a devotee of pimento cheese, you’ll find yourself falling head over heels for this incredibly easy and flavorful side dish. But even if you’re new to the world of pimento cheese, this recipe offers a delicious and accessible introduction to its charm. Here are just a few reasons why this creamy corn will become a cherished recipe in your collection:
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: It combines the beloved tangy, cheesy goodness of pimento cheese with the natural sweetness of corn, creating a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exciting. The sharp cheddar provides a robust base, while the pimentos add a touch of color and a mild, sweet pepper flavor that perfectly complements the creamy corn.
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe champions simplicity. By utilizing canned whole kernel corn, it significantly cuts down on prep time without compromising on taste. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need a delicious side fast, or for holiday menus where time is precious.
- Perfect for Meal Planning: One of the standout features of this creamy corn is its make-ahead potential. We all know how hectic holiday preparations can be, with multiple dishes vying for oven space and your attention. This dish can be assembled a day in advance, covered, and refrigerated, freeing you up to focus on other culinary tasks on the big day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
- Health-Conscious Choice: By recommending Green Giant low-sodium whole kernel corn, this recipe offers a mindful approach to your meal. Opting for lower sodium ingredients is a simple yet effective way to enjoy flavorful food while being more conscious of dietary needs.
- Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a grand holiday spread, this Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its inviting appearance and irresistible taste make it a surefire hit with guests of all ages, prompting requests for the recipe every time.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s signature creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: The foundation of our creamy sauce, providing a rich, savory base. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced, these add a mild, fresh onion flavor and a touch of vibrant green color without being overpowering. They’re sautéed to release their aromatic qualities.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux with the butter, which thickens the milk and cream into a luxurious sauce.
- Celery Salt: A secret weapon for adding a subtle savory depth and a unique background note that complements the cheese and corn beautifully.
- Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch provides a hint of warmth and a very slight kick, balancing the richness of the cheese without making the dish spicy. Adjust to your preference.
- Whole Milk: The primary liquid for the creamy sauce, contributing to its smooth consistency.
- Heavy Cream: Essential for achieving that ultra-rich, decadent creaminess that defines this dish. It adds a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: Provides a robust, tangy flavor that is characteristic of classic pimento cheese. Shred your own for the best melt and flavor.
- Sharp Yellow Cheddar Cheese: Adds another layer of sharp cheddar flavor and contributes to the appealing golden hue of the dish. Again, freshly shredded is always best.
- Diced Pimentos: The star ingredient! Drained and rinsed, these little red peppers bring a distinctive sweet, mild flavor and beautiful flecks of color.
- Canned Green Giant Whole Kernel Sweet Corn Low-Sodium: For convenience and quality. Using low-sodium corn allows you to season the dish precisely to your taste. Ensure it’s well-drained.
- Granulated Sugar: A small amount enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances the savory, cheesy flavors. Don’t skip it, as it rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn
Follow these detailed steps to create a truly irresistible Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn that will impress every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Sauté Aromatics
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×11 inch (or similarly sized) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. This ensures a quick release and easy cleanup. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is gently bubbling, add your thinly sliced green onions. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. Be careful not to brown them, as we want to preserve their delicate flavor.
Step 2: Create the Roux and Creamy Sauce Base
Once the green onions are translucent, whisk in the all-purpose flour, celery salt, and cayenne pepper into the saucepan. Cook this mixture for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste and creating a roux that will thicken your sauce. Gradually, and while continuously whisking, slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a rich, creamy sauce, which should take approximately 4 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and coat the back of a spoon. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in ¾ cup of the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese and ¾ cup of the shredded sharp yellow cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a luscious, cheesy base.
Step 3: Incorporate Pimentos and Corn
To the creamy cheese sauce, add the drained and rinsed diced pimentos and the well-drained whole kernel sweet corn. Mix gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the corn and pimentos are evenly distributed throughout the cheesy sauce. Finally, stir in the granulated sugar. The sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and balance the savory and tangy notes of the cheese, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the entire creamy corn mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, generously sprinkle the remaining shredded white and yellow cheddar cheese over the top of the corn mixture. This creates a beautiful, bubbly, and golden-brown crust as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and gloriously bubbly, and the corn mixture itself is heated through and simmering gently around the edges. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese doesn’t over-brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to set slightly.
Cook’s Notes and Expert Tips for Success
Beyond its delicious taste, one of the greatest advantages of this Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn is its flexibility. Knowing how to adapt and prepare it ahead of time can make all the difference, especially during busy periods.
- Make-Ahead Mastery: This recipe truly shines as a make-ahead option. You can assemble the entire dish, pour it into your baking dish, and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake. On the day of your event, simply remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature while your oven preheats. Then, bake as directed until bubbly and golden. This is a game-changer for holiday meal planning, allowing you to spread out your kitchen tasks over a few days.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp white and yellow cheddar are recommended for their classic pimento cheese flavor, feel free to experiment. A touch of smoked cheddar can add an intriguing depth, or a milder cheddar for those who prefer a less intense cheese flavor. For an extra creamy touch, a small amount of cream cheese can be added to the sauce base.
- Fresh vs. Canned Corn: While canned corn is utilized for its convenience in this recipe, you can certainly use fresh or frozen corn if preferred. If using fresh corn, you’ll need about 4-5 cups of kernels (from 4-5 ears). If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before adding it to the sauce. Adjust cooking time slightly if using fresh corn, as it might need a minute or two longer to heat through.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the creamy corn mixture. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a nice smoky note and additional color.
- Serving Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, allow the creamy corn to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.
Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well?
This Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn is incredibly versatile and makes a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of main courses. Its rich, comforting profile complements many flavors.
- Holiday Roasts: It’s a natural fit for your Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas ham, or Easter lamb.
- Southern Comfort: Pair it with classic Southern fried chicken, crispy pork chops, or slow-cooked pulled pork.
- BBQ Fare: Elevate your barbecue spread alongside grilled ribs, brisket, or smoked chicken.
- Everyday Dinners: Perfect with a simple roast chicken, baked salmon, or even a hearty meatloaf for a weeknight meal.
We all know how demanding holiday meal preparation can be, with so many moving parts working to create a memorable feast. The ability to prepare this delightful corn side dish a day in advance is truly a gift, helping to alleviate some of that last-minute rush. I sincerely hope you give this recipe a try this holiday season and discover as much joy in it as we do. Should you have any questions or decide to whip up this creamy corn, please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments below. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Enjoy
Looking to expand your repertoire of crowd-pleasing side dishes? Explore these other fantastic recipes:
The BEST One Pot Cheesy Potatoes
Cheesy Ranch Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Horseradish Honey Mustard Glaze
Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn
Author: MaryAnn Dwyer
Servings: 8 servings
Creamy, cheesy and so easy to make, this Pimento Cheese Creamy Corn is the perfect side for your family dinner or your holiday table. Guaranteed crowd pleaser!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Ingredients
- 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 6 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp. celery salt
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp yellow cheddar cheese
- 1 4-oz. jar diced pimentos, drained and rinsed
- 2 15.25-oz. cans Green Giant Whole Kernel Sweet Corn Low-Sodium, drained
- 2 tsp. granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Spray a 9×11 inch (or similar size) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced green onions and cook 3-4 minutes until translucent. Whisk in flour, celery salt, and cayenne and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in milk and cream and cook until thickened, about 4 minutes. Add ¾ cup of each cheese, pimentos, and corn. Mix until well combined. Stir in the granulated sugar. Pour into the prepared dish. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and corn is bubbly.
Notes
This recipe can be made a day ahead of time. Just cover in foil and refrigerate until the day you’re ready to bake. Remove it from the fridge while your oven preheats. Bake until the corn is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
Keyword: canned corn, pimento cheese
Cuisine: American, Southern
Course: Side Dish
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