If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly cheesy, sweet, and utterly comforting, you have to try this Korean Corn Cheese Recipe. This beloved Korean bar snack and barbecue side brings together creamy mayonnaise, buttery sweet corn, and ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese for a bite that perfectly balances savory richness with a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re making it as a snack for friends or a crowd-pleasing side, the simplicity and vibrant flavors will have you coming back for more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the dish’s signature taste and texture. From the tender sweetness of corn to the luscious melt of mozzarella, every item contributes to a wonderfully balanced bite.
- 2 cups canned sweet corn (drained): The star ingredient, offering natural sweetness and pop.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and tang, binding everything perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Infuses a rich, velvety mouthfeel and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn for that classic taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the dish and brings out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of warmth without overpowering.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create that irresistible bubbly cheese topping.
- Optional: sliced green onions or parsley: For a fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Corn Mixture
Preheat your oven to 425°F or set your broiler to high so it’s ready when you are. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained sweet corn, mayonnaise, softened butter, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the corn is evenly coated with the creamy mixture; this ensures every bite bursts with flavor and silky texture.
Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Cheese
Next, scoop your delicious corn mixture into a small cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly to allow for consistent melting. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, covering every bit of corn. This cheese layer is what turns the dish into the cheesy dream it is.
Step 3: Bake and Broil for Perfection
Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the mozzarella is fully melted and bubbling gloriously. For that irresistible golden crust on top, switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes—but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. This final step delivers the signature gorgeous, bubbly cheese finish that defines this Korean Corn Cheese Recipe.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve Hot
Once out of the oven, allow your corn cheese to cool just slightly so it’s safe to eat but still warm and gooey. Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top to add a splash of color and fresh flavor. Now it’s time to dig into a cheesy, sweet, buttery bite of heaven!
How to Serve Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like sliced green onions or chopped parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant color but also a subtle fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy cheese and sweet corn combination. Feel free to get creative with a sprinkle of paprika or some finely chopped red chili for a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Korean Corn Cheese Recipe pairs perfectly with Korean barbecue meats, offering a creamy, cheesy counterpoint to smoky and savory proteins like bulgogi or galbi. It also works wonderfully alongside steamed rice, kimchi, and other banchan (Korean side dishes) for a truly authentic spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, turn this dish into a fun communal centerpiece by serving it right in the skillet so everyone can dig in. Alternatively, scoop it onto small toasts or crackers for irresistible finger food. You could even stuff it inside warm pita pockets with some fresh greens for a delightful fusion snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s rare!), transfer the Korean Corn Cheese into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, perfect for quick reheating the next day.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. To keep the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
For reheating, place the leftover Korean Corn Cheese in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and the cheese starts to bubble again. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that lovely cheesy texture and avoid a rubbery bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh corn can add a delightful crispness and even sweeter flavor to your Korean Corn Cheese Recipe, especially when in season. Just cook it quickly by boiling or roasting before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a slightly different, but still creamy texture. Keep in mind this will change the flavor profile a bit, but it can still be delicious.
Can I add other cheeses?
Mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a bit of cream cheese mixed in for extra richness.
How spicy is this dish?
Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is generally mild and sweet with no inherent spiciness, making it accessible for all palates. You can always add a little kick with a sprinkle of chili flakes or sliced jalapeños if you prefer.
Can I make this vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based mayo and butter alternatives and swap mozzarella for vegan cheese shreds. The dish will still be creamy and satisfying without animal products.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple, flavorful, and comforting, this Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is a must-try. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul while impressing friends with its effortless charm. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved snack and side in Korean cuisine. Give it a go, and prepare for cheesiest, sweetest satisfaction!
Print
Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Korean Corn Cheese is a deliciously creamy and cheesy baked corn dish that combines sweet corn, rich mayonnaise, butter, and mozzarella cheese. Perfect as a Korean BBQ side or a savory appetizer, it’s topped with melted, bubbly cheese and garnished with fresh green onions or parsley for a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups canned sweet corn (drained)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened or melted)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: sliced green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F or switch your broiler to high to prepare for baking the corn cheese dish.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mix the drained sweet corn, mayonnaise, softened or melted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the corn mixture into a small cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the corn mixture to ensure a bubbly cheesy layer once baked.
- Bake the dish: Place the skillet or dish in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and becomes bubbly.
- Broil for extra color: For a golden, slightly crispy cheese top, broil the dish on high for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve hot as a side or appetizer.
Notes
- This dish is commonly enjoyed as a Korean BBQ side or a bar snack.
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the corn mixture before baking.
- Use fresh corn instead of canned when in season for a more vibrant flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
