Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, then the Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is just what you need! This delightful pie is a family favorite in my home, bursting with juicy corn and rich cheddar. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe whenever I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this pie lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a main course at dinner or bringing it to a potluck, everyone will be asking for seconds. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this pie ready to bake before you know it.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of sweet corn and cheddar cheese makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can easily prepare this pie ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Comforting Flavor: The savory custard-like filling is warm and satisfying—a true comfort food classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that the ingredients for this Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up on any occasion. Gather these goodies to get started:
For the Filling
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Plus extra for greasing the dish)
- 1 cup Yellow Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium Garlic Clove, minced
- 4 cups Corn Kernels, fresh or thawed (From about 6 large ears)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk
- Salt and Pepper (To taste)
Optional Crust
- 1 pie crust (optional)
Variations
One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:
- Add some greens: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños can add a zesty kick that elevates the flavor!
- Cheese swap: Try mixing different types of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Herbs galore: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can enhance the overall taste and bring freshness to every bite.
How to Make Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your pie dish with butter ensures that your delicious creation won’t stick later on. If you’re using a pie crust, gently fit it into the dish and trim any excess.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add in the finely chopped onion and cook until softened—about 5 minutes should do it. Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant. This step builds a lovely base flavor for your pie!
Step 3: Cook the Corn
Now it’s time to add those beautiful corn kernels! Sauté them with the onions and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This helps release their sweetness while ensuring no extra liquid remains.
Step 4: Whisk Eggs and Milk
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture forms the custard base that holds everything together.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gently stir in your sautéed vegetables along with the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. It’s important not to rush this step; mixing gently ensures all flavors combine beautifully without breaking up those luscious veggies.
Step 6: Pour into Dish
Carefully pour your delicious mixture into the prepared pie dish. If using a crust, make sure everything is evenly distributed so every slice has that perfect creamy filling.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop your pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and lightly golden on top—insert a knife near the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Step 8: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow your Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets everything set nicely for those picture-perfect slices!
Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home too!
Pro Tips for Making Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie
Making the perfect Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!
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Choose fresh corn: Using fresh corn kernels enhances the sweetness and texture of your pie. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen kernels are a great alternative.
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Customize your cheese: Feel free to mix in different types of cheese along with cheddar. A blend of sharp cheddar and mild mozzarella can create a deliciously creamy texture.
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Let it set: After removing the pie from the oven, allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This resting time helps the custard firm up, making slicing much easier.
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Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme can bring a burst of flavor that complements the sweet corn beautifully.
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Make it ahead: This pie can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving for a quick and satisfying meal!
How to Serve Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie
Serving your Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.
Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling chopped chives or parsley on top adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: For an added tangy twist, consider crumbling some feta or goat cheese on top just before serving.
- Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a slight tang that balances out the sweetness.
Side Dishes
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrition alongside your savory pie.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs or spices makes for a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the pie.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice gives a bright touch that complements the sweet corn beautifully.
Enjoy this comforting dish with your chosen sides and garnishes for an unforgettable meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is an excellent choice for meal prep! It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly for maximum freshness.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Let the Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie cool completely.
- Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
- To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator first.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie.
Can I use frozen corn in Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well as fresh corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using it in the recipe.
How do I ensure my Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie sets properly?
To ensure your pie sets well, bake it until the center is just set and lightly golden on top. Allowing it to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking will help it firm up nicely.
What can I serve with Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie?
This savory pie pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables, making for a balanced and hearty meal!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to make this Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie as I am! Its comforting flavors and creamy texture make it truly special and perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Enjoy the delightful process of creating this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy cooking!
Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie, a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of corn with rich, creamy cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this pie is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. With its warm custard-like filling and golden top, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed as a hearty main course or a side dish at potlucks, this cheesy corn bake will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or thawed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your pie dish.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion for about 5 minutes; add garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in corn kernels and cook for another 2-3 minutes until warmed.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine sautéed vegetables and cheese into the egg mixture gently.
- Pour into the prepared pie dish (with or without crust) and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is set and lightly golden on top.
- Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
