Description
This creamy corn and macaroni bake is the ultimate cozy casserole—loaded with sweet corn, melty cheese, and tender elbow pasta, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or holiday sides
Ingredients
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1½ cups elbow macaroni
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups frozen corn kernels
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
2. Cook the Macaroni
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Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base
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In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
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Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
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Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
4. Add the Corn and Sauce
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Stir in frozen corn and cook for 4–5 minutes until heated through.
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Pour in heavy cream and milk; stir and bring to a light simmer.
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Add cheddar cheese, Parmesan, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Stir until cheese melts and the sauce is thick and creamy.
5. Combine with Pasta
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Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and toss gently until fully coated in sauce.
6. Bake It
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Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese if desired.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
7. Garnish and Serve
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Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
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For extra richness, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk.
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This recipe is a great way to use up leftover pasta or cheese from other meals.
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Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or holiday side dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American