Description
This Loaded Mac & Cheese Corn Casserole combines creamy mac and cheese with sweet corn, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar for a flavorful and comforting side dish that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni and Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, milk, sour cream, drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Mixture: Fold the cooked macaroni into the corn and cheese mixture, stirring gently until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled cooked bacon and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. Serve warm.
Notes
- For added spice, mix in a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture before baking.
- Substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack or a cheese blend according to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
