If you’ve ever found yourself craving a sweet, savory, melty treat that feels both comforting and delightfully indulgent, let me introduce you to the Korean Corn Cheese Recipe. This dish takes simple ingredients like fresh corn, creamy mayonnaise, and gooey mozzarella, and transforms them into pure magic under a bubbly, golden crust. It’s a staple in Korean cuisine that’s loved for its rich texture, balanced sweetness, and irresistible combination of flavors that somehow feel just right every time you take a bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is incredibly straightforward because the ingredients are simple yet essential. Each one plays a unique role: from the sweet crunch of fresh corn kernels to the creamy richness of mayonnaise and the stretchy, melty goodness of mozzarella, every element works together to create that unforgettable taste and texture.
- 2 ears fresh sweet corn kernels: Fresh corn kernels bring a natural sweetness and bite that canned corn just can’t match.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creamy moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella: This cheese melts beautifully, providing that signature gooey, stretchy texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and creates a lovely caramelization when baked.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds a mild oniony crunch and a fresh pop of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Helps bring all the flavors together with just the right seasoning.
How to Make Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Corn
First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, carefully cut the corn kernels off the cob. Fresh kernels will give the dish that natural sweetness and slight crunch that makes it so special.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels with the mayonnaise, sugar, shredded mozzarella, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything together until the mixture is fully blended and looks delightfully creamy and cheesy.
Step 3: Bake the Mixture
Lightly grease a baking dish, then pour your corn and cheese mixture into it. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is bubbling and the cheese is melting into a luscious layer over the corn.
Step 4: Broil for the Finishing Touch
Switch your oven to broil, then transfer the dish under the broiler for 2 minutes or until the top turns beautifully browned and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn—this step adds an irresistible golden crust that’s pure heaven.
Step 5: Serve Right Away
The Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is best enjoyed immediately while it’s still warm and gooey. Grab your favorite spoon and dig in to experience it at its melty, crunchy peak.
How to Serve Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions on top just before serving adds a fresh burst of color and a subtle crunch. Some people also love a dash of toasted sesame seeds to bring a nutty aroma and a little extra texture. Garnishing transforms this simple dish into something visually inviting and flavorful.
Side Dishes
Korean Corn Cheese pairs beautifully with spicy dishes like Korean fried chicken or bulgogi, as the creamy sweetness cools and complements heat. It also works wonderfully as an appetizer alongside crisp pickled vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving Korean Corn Cheese in mini cast iron skillets or colorful ramekins for an individual portion that looks as good as it tastes. You can also scoop it onto toasted baguette slices for an impressive party appetizer or stuff it inside grilled peppers for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator and consume within two days for the best taste and texture. Keep in mind that the cheese won’t be quite as stretchy after reheating, but the flavors remain delicious.
Freezing
This Korean Corn Cheese Recipe does not freeze particularly well due to the creamy mayonnaise and fresh corn texture. Freezing can result in watery consistency and separation of ingredients, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.
Reheating
To reheat, place the leftover corn cheese in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave but heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking and drying out the dish. Finish by briefly broiling if you want to revive the browned top.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?
While fresh corn gives the best natural sweetness and texture, you can use canned corn in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly and reduce or omit the added sugar since canned corn is often sweeter.
Is mayonnaise necessary in this Korean Corn Cheese Recipe?
Mayonnaise contributes creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly. You could substitute with sour cream or cream cheese for a variation, but the traditional flavor relies on mayo.
What type of cheese works best besides mozzarella?
Mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness and stretch, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for a slightly sharper flavor. Avoid strongly flavored cheeses that might overpower the delicate balance.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise, plant-based cheese shreds that melt well, and ensure the corn and seasonings are fresh and natural. The result won’t be exactly the same but can still be delicious and satisfying.
How spicy is Korean Corn Cheese?
This dish is not spicy at all; it’s sweet, creamy, and cheesy. However, it pairs beautifully with spicy Korean dishes or can be sprinkled lightly with red pepper flakes if you want a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Korean Corn Cheese Recipe is truly one of those simple, comforting dishes that manages to feel special every time you enjoy it. Whether you’re making it as a snack, side, or appetizer, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this melty, sweet-salty delight—you won’t regret a single cheesy bite.
Print
Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes baking + 2 minutes broiling
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Korean Corn Cheese is a creamy, cheesy side dish featuring sweet corn kernels mixed with mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, and green onions. Baked until bubbly and topped with a browned crust, this savory delight is the perfect rich and comforting accompaniment to any Korean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 ears fresh sweet corn kernels (kernels removed from cobs)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400ËšF (204ËšC) to prepare for baking the corn cheese.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine fresh sweet corn kernels, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella cheese, sugar, thinly sliced green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish and pour the corn mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Bake the mixture: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture is melted and bubbling around the edges.
- Broil for browning: Transfer the baking dish to the oven broiler and broil for 2 minutes, watching carefully until the top surface is nicely browned and slightly crispy.
- Serve hot: Remove from oven and serve immediately as a warm, cheesy side dish that pairs excellently with Korean meals or as a comforting snack.
Notes
- Use fresh sweet corn for best flavor, but frozen corn can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- Adjust sugar amount depending on the sweetness of the corn to balance flavors.
- For a sharper flavor, substitute part or all of the mozzarella with cheddar cheese.
- Keep an eye on the dish while broiling to prevent burning.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for a larger crowd.
