Cream Cheese Corn Casserole
Ingredients:

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened (you can use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can creamed corn
  • 1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix
  • 1 cup sour cream (you can use light or fat-free sour cream for a lighter version)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Mix the ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, melted butter, and sour cream until smooth.
    • Add the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, and beaten eggs. Mix well.
  3. Add the muffin mix and seasonings:
    • Stir in the Jiffy corn muffin mix, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until everything is evenly combined.
  4. Transfer to the baking dish:
    • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown on top.
  6. Optional: Garnish:
    • If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a bit of extra flavor and color.
  7. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a standalone side.

Weight Watchers Modifications (Optional):

  • Use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese and sour cream to lower the points.
  • Swap out butter for a low-point alternative like a light margarine or butter spray.
  • Reduce the amount of cheese or use a fat-free shredded cheese to make it lighter.

Weight Watchers Points:

  • Depending on your modifications (like using light cream cheese and sour cream), this dish can be around 6-7 points per serving, with about 8 servings in total.

Tips:

  • Customize it: You can add extra ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat, chopped bell peppers for a veggie boost, or bacon bits for a richer flavor (just keep in mind that these additions may change the points).
  • Make it ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
  • Double the recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish.

Conclusion:

This Cream Cheese Corn Casserole is rich, creamy, and super easy to make. It’s a great comfort food dish that can be lightened up with a few simple swaps to make it Weight Watchers-friendly. Enjoy it at your next family meal or special occasion!