Name: Gooey Korean Corn Cheese: Your New Favorite Appetizer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Sweet Corn (Use frozen or canned corn, omit sugar if using canned.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo for authentic taste.); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella (Fontina or Gouda can be used for different flavors.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Adjust or omit based on the sweetness of the corn.); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Chives can be a substitute.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (For added spiciness.); 1/2 cup Roasted Red Peppers or Jalapeños (Mix in for extra flavor.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of fresh corn wafted through the air, reminding me of summer picnics and cozy family gatherings. Today, I couldn’t resist whipping up a comforting batch of Korean Corn Cheese—an easy appetizer that promises to bring smiles to the dinner table in under 20 minutes! This delightful dish combines sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, and melty mozzarella into a rich, gooey bliss that’s a hit with everyone. Whether you serve it as a dip with crispy chips or as a scrumptious side at your next barbecue, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, its vegetarian-friendly nature makes it a fantastic choice for those seeking to enjoy homemade comfort in a quick and simple way. Curious to discover the magic behind this irresistible recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is Korean Corn Cheese so irresistible?

Creamy Delight: The blend of mayonnaise and mozzarella creates an indulgent texture that’s simply addictive.

Quick Prep: In under 20 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Versatile Option: Enjoy it warm as a dip with chips or bread, or serve it alongside grilled meats for a satisfying side.

Flavorful Twist: Enhance the flavor with easy additions like red pepper flakes or mixed veggies for a personalized touch.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether hosting a party or enjoying a simple meal, this dish is sure to impress. For more delightful appetizers, check out Mashed Potato Cheese and Cheddar Sweet Corn.

Korean Corn Cheese Ingredients

For the Corn Mixture
• Fresh Sweet Corn – Adds natural sweetness and texture; frozen or canned corn can be used, but omit sugar if using canned.
• Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess and richness; substitute Kewpie mayo for a more authentic taste.
• Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture; alternatives like Fontina or Gouda can introduce different flavors.
• Sugar – Enhances the corn’s natural sweetness; adjust or omit according to the sweetness of the corn.
• Green Onions – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor; chives can work as a delightful substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhance the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.

Optional Additions
• Red Pepper Flakes – For an added spicy kick to your Korean Corn Cheese.
• Roasted Red Peppers or Jalapeños – Mix in for extra flavor and a burst of color.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Corn Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the Korean Corn Cheese will bake evenly, creating that delightful bubbling and melting effect. As the oven warms up, prepare your other ingredients so everything is ready for mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella. Add sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn, and sprinkle in chopped green onions for an aromatic touch. Use a spatula to mix these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well-coated and evenly combined.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Carefully pour the corn mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Press down gently to compact the mixture, allowing it to meld together, which will help create that gooey texture when baked.

Step 4: Bake the Mixture
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll want to see the cheese starting to melt and the mixture bubbling at the edges. This is a sign that your Korean Corn Cheese is on its way to becoming a delightful, gooey bliss.

Step 5: Broil for Finish
After baking, switch your oven setting to broil and allow the Korean Corn Cheese to broil for an additional 2 minutes. This step adds a lovely golden-brown crust on top. Watch carefully to avoid burning, ensuring you achieve that perfect bubbly and slightly browned finish.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Remove the Korean Corn Cheese from the oven and let it cool for a minute before digging in. Serve immediately while it’s warm and gooey, alongside your favorite chips or toasted bread for a perfect appetizer. This dish is best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor and texture.

Expert Tips for Korean Corn Cheese

Use Fresh Corn: For the best flavor, opt for fresh sweet corn when it’s in season. If you must use frozen corn, be sure it’s fully thawed and drained.
Balance with Sugar: The sugar is crucial for enhancing the sweetness of the corn. Adjust it based on the natural sweetness if you’re using canned corn.
Broil with Care: Keep a close eye when broiling! Just 2 minutes can turn your Korean Corn Cheese from golden to burnt, so watch it closely for that perfect bubbly top.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to two days in advance. Just cover it and store in the refrigerator; when baking, allow for an extra 10-15 minutes if cooking from cold.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or mix in other veggies for a twist that enhances your delicious Korean Corn Cheese!

How to Store and Freeze Korean Corn Cheese

Room Temperature: Korean Corn Cheese is best enjoyed warm, so avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to restore its gooey texture.
Freezer: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating: For optimal flavor, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through to enjoy your Korean Corn Cheese freshly delicious!

Korean Corn Cheese Variations

Explore the exciting ways you can personalize Korean Corn Cheese to create your perfect dish!

Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery touch. This addition adds a delightful heat that elevates the creamy mixture.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate roasted red peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for a colorful twist. Not only does this boost the flavor, but it also adds a hearty texture that’s hard to resist.
Cheese Request: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar or creamy gouda to play with different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its own personality, creating a unique cheese experience every time.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in a handful of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top before baking. This adds an enjoyable crunch, perfectly contrasting the gooey richness beneath.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by folding in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This gives your corn cheese a fresh brightness that brightens every bite.
Pizza Twist: Spread the mixture onto a pizza crust for a delightful twist on pizza night. Top with additional cheese and favorite toppings for a creamy, corn-filled pie.
Creamy Dream: For an even richer texture, swirl in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream. This adds layers of creaminess that take the indulgence to the next level.
Nacho Style: Serve your Korean Corn Cheese with tortilla chips for an irresistible scoopable appetizer. It’s a fantastic way to elevate game day gatherings or movie nights.

For more cheesy ideas, don’t miss out on the delightful flavors in Rudolph Cheese Ball and Philadelphia Eggnog Cheesecake.

What to Serve with Korean Corn Cheese

Indulging in the creamy goodness of Korean Corn Cheese opens the door to creating a delicious meal experience.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy texture of chips contrasts beautifully with the creamy corn cheese.
Garlic Bread: Toasted with a hint of garlic, this bread complements the richness of the corn cheese for an enjoyable bite.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and flavorful, these skewers add a savory protein that balances the sweetness of the corn.
Fresh Green Salad: A simple, crisp salad featuring mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the gooey dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with herbs bring an earthy flavor that enhances the comfort of Korean Corn Cheese, making every bite satisfying.
Cold Beverages: Pair it with a chilled sparkling water or a light white wine for a refreshing drink that won’t overpower the dish’s flavors.

This delightful spread will elevate your enjoyment of the cheesy goodness and create a fulfilling meal that everyone will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Corn Cheese are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire corn mixture up to 2 days in advance; just combine the sweet corn, mayonnaise, mozzarella, sugar, and green onions, then store it covered in the refrigerator. To ensure the best quality, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, followed by a quick broil for about 2 minutes until golden brown. This way, your delicious Korean Corn Cheese will be just as gooey and inviting with minimal effort!

Korean Corn Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh sweet corn is ideal for Korean Corn Cheese, as it offers the best flavor and sweetness. Look for ears that have bright green husks with tightly packed kernels, and avoid any with dark spots or dried-out ends. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a good alternative—just ensure it’s fully thawed before mixing.

How should I store leftover Korean Corn Cheese?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warm and gooey again. Microwave reheating is possible, but it may affect the texture.

Can I freeze Korean Corn Cheese?
Absolutely! This delightful dish freezes well for up to 2 months. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, allowing it to come back to life for that delicious, gooey experience.

What if my Korean Corn Cheese is too watery?
Oh, don’t worry! If your mixture turns out soupy, it could be due to excess moisture in the corn or mayonnaise. To fix this, try mixing in some breadcrumbs or a little extra shredded cheese to absorb the excess liquid. You can also reduce the mayonnaise slightly in future batches.

Is Korean Corn Cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Korean Corn Cheese is a fantastic vegetarian option, making it perfect for those seeking meatless recipes. Just ensure any additional ingredients you use, like vegetable mix-ins, also meet vegetarian standards. It’s a great dish for gatherings, accommodating those with dietary preferences.