Make Sweet Creamy Korean Corn Cheese Easily

Make Sweet Creamy Korean Corn Cheese

Making sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is a culinary adventure everyone should try. This beloved Korean side dish, known locally as “콘치즈” (kon-chijeu), offers an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. It brings together the natural sweetness of corn, the richness of mayonnaise, a hint of sugar, and the ultimate comfort of gooey melted mozzarella. It’s a dish that perfectly complements spicy main courses or stands alone as a delightful snack. The simplicity of its preparation makes it accessible to even beginner cooks, promising a satisfying reward for minimal effort. Its popularity at Korean BBQ restaurants speaks volumes about its comforting and addictive qualities, making it a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste experience.

What is Korean Corn Cheese?

Korean corn cheese is a savory-sweet, creamy dish typically served in a hot skillet, often as an accompaniment to grilled meats or as a satisfying appetizer. It consists primarily of canned or frozen corn kernels mixed with mayonnaise, a touch of sugar, and sometimes a few diced vegetables like onions or bell peppers. This mixture is then topped generously with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and baked or broiled until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and slightly golden. The resulting dish is a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and salty notes, with a stretchy, cheesy texture that is incredibly comforting and delicious. It’s a simple concept that delivers big on flavor.

Why you should try this recipe

There are countless reasons to add this easy Korean corn cheese recipe to your repertoire. First and foremost, its incredible taste offers a unique combination of sweet and savory that appeals to nearly everyone. The creamy base, coupled with the gooey cheese, creates a textural delight that’s hard to resist. Beyond flavor, its ease of preparation is a major draw; you can whip up this popular Korean dish in under 20 minutes with minimal fuss and basic ingredients. It’s also incredibly versatile, serving as an excellent side dish for everything from a hearty main course like cheesy chicken and rice casserole to a quick snack for game night. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, delicious corn cheese recipe that delivers maximum impact for minimal effort, look no further.

Quick Prep for Korean Corn Cheese

One of the most appealing aspects of making this sweet corn cheese is how little time and effort it requires. The entire preparation and cooking process can be completed in less than twenty minutes, making it an ideal option for a last-minute side dish or a speedy appetizer. The key to this rapid turnaround lies in using readily available ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. There’s no complex chopping, no intricate sauces, and no lengthy baking times. This section outlines everything you’ll need, from pantry staples to common kitchen tools, ensuring you can replicate this delightful homemade Korean corn cheese with absolute ease. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, cheesy corn dish without the long wait!

List of all ingredients needed

Gathering your ingredients for this easy Korean corn cheese recipe is a breeze, as most items are likely already in your pantry or easily found at any grocery store. For this recipe, you will need:

• Two (15-ounce) cans of whole kernel corn, drained: Canned corn is perfect for convenience and ensures a sweet, tender base.
• Half a cup of mayonnaise: This provides the creamy texture and rich flavor that defines the dish.
• One tablespoon of granulated sugar: Essential for balancing the savory elements and enhancing the corn’s natural sweetness, giving it that authentic sweet corn cheese profile.
• Half a teaspoon of salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
• Quarter teaspoon of black pepper: For a subtle hint of warmth.
• Two tablespoons of unsalted butter: For sautéing and adding a rich base.
• Three green onions, thinly sliced: Divided for both mixing and garnish, adding a fresh, aromatic touch.
• One and a half cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: The star ingredient for that irresistible gooey, bubbly topping.

These simple ingredients come together to create a truly delicious and satisfying side.

Essential tools for your kitchen

You won’t need an arsenal of specialized equipment to make this sweet creamy Korean corn cheese. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring only a few basic kitchen tools that most home cooks already possess. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process:

• One 8-inch oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan: This is crucial as it allows you to both cook the corn mixture on the stovetop and then transfer it directly to the broiler for that perfect cheesy topping. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can cook in a regular pan and then transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish before broiling.
• A mixing bowl: For combining the corn, mayo, and seasonings before cooking.
• A sturdy spatula or spoon: For stirring the mixture thoroughly.
• A can opener: If using canned corn.
• A cutting board and sharp knife: For slicing the green onions.

With these few items, you’ll be well-equipped to create a fantastic homemade Korean corn cheese experience, perfect for any occasion or to complement another main course.

Preparing Your Korean Corn Cheese Base

The foundation of a truly delicious sweet creamy Korean corn cheese lies in the careful preparation of its base. This initial stage involves getting your main ingredients ready and setting up the cooking vessel, which is often an oven-safe skillet for a seamless transition from stovetop to broiler. Proper draining of the corn ensures your dish isn’t watery, while freshly sliced green onions add a vibrant, slightly pungent freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and mayo. Melting the butter creates a flavorful base for the corn mixture, contributing to the overall depth of taste. Taking these initial steps thoughtfully will pave the way for a perfectly textured and flavorful cheesy corn dish.

Drain corn, slice green onions

Start your sweet corn cheese journey by properly preparing the main components. For the corn, if you’re using canned whole kernel corn, it’s absolutely essential to drain it thoroughly. You can do this by pouring the corn into a colander and letting it sit for a few minutes to allow all excess liquid to escape. Some even pat it dry with a paper towel for extra measure, ensuring the final dish isn’t watery. Next, prepare your green onions. Thinly slice three green onions, separating the white and light green parts from the darker green tops. You’ll use the white and light green parts in the corn mixture for flavor, and the darker green tops will be reserved for a vibrant garnish at the end. This simple separation ensures both integrated flavor and a beautiful presentation for your easy Korean corn cheese.

Melt butter in oven-safe skillet

With your corn drained and green onions sliced, the next step in preparing your homemade Korean corn cheese base is to set up your cooking vessel. Place your 8-inch oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron for even heating and retention) over medium heat on your stovetop. Add two tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling the pan gently to coat the bottom. The melted butter will serve as a rich and flavorful foundation for your corn mixture, preventing sticking and adding a layer of depth to the savory corn cheese. Once the butter is fully melted and slightly shimmering, your skillet is ready for the next delicious step, ensuring a perfect start to your popular Korean dish.

Combine Corn, Mayo, Sugar Mixture

With your butter melted and skillet ready, it’s time to bring together the core ingredients of your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese. This stage is where the magic really happens, as the simple elements transform into a rich, creamy, and flavorful base. The combination of sweet corn with tangy mayonnaise and a touch of sugar creates a unique balance that is both comforting and incredibly appealing. Adding a portion of the green onions at this stage infuses the mixture with a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully. This step is about achieving a uniform consistency and ensuring every kernel is coated in the creamy goodness, preparing it for the heat that will unlock its full potential as a delicious corn cheese dish.

Stir until fully coated and creamy

Once your butter is melted in the skillet, add the drained corn kernels along with the white and light green parts of the sliced green onions. Stir these gently to combine. Then, add half a cup of mayonnaise and one tablespoon of granulated sugar to the corn mixture in the skillet. Using your spatula or spoon, stir everything together thoroughly. The goal here is to ensure every single kernel of corn is completely coated with the creamy mayonnaise-sugar mixture. Continue stirring until the mixture looks uniform, rich, and distinctly creamy. This careful coating ensures that each bite of your homemade Korean corn cheese delivers the signature sweet and savory flavor that makes this dish so popular.

Season with salt and pepper to taste

After achieving that perfectly creamy and coated corn mixture, it’s time to fine-tune the flavors of your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese with seasoning. Add half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper to the skillet. Stir these seasonings into the corn and mayonnaise mixture until they are well integrated. Taste a small amount of the mixture and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the goal is to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and the richness of the mayonnaise without overpowering them. This careful seasoning ensures a balanced and utterly delicious cheesy corn dish, preparing it for the final cooking stages that will bring out its full, appealing flavor profile.

Cook Mixture Until Hot and Bubbling

Having perfectly seasoned and coated your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese base, the next critical step is to cook it on the stovetop until it’s hot and gently bubbling. This phase is essential not only for warming the ingredients through but also for allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The heat helps to soften the corn further, integrate the mayonnaise, and slightly caramelize the sugar, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. While it might seem straightforward, paying attention to the details during this cooking period ensures an optimal texture and flavor profile before the cheese is added. The goal is a consistently hot mixture, signaling it’s ready for its delicious cheesy crown.

Stir occasionally for even heating

Once your corn, mayonnaise, sugar, and seasoning mixture is combined in the oven-safe skillet, keep it over medium heat. Allow the mixture to cook, ensuring it heats through evenly. It’s important to stir occasionally, every 1-2 minutes, using your spatula or spoon. This intermittent stirring prevents the bottom from sticking or scorching and helps distribute the heat uniformly throughout the mixture. You’ll know it’s ready when the corn is visibly hot, and small bubbles begin to appear around the edges and throughout the mixture. This indicates that the sweet corn cheese base is thoroughly warmed and the flavors have had a chance to marry, setting the stage for the glorious melted cheese topping. This careful cooking ensures a perfect consistency for your delicious corn cheese.

Top with Mozzarella Cheese Layer

With the sweet creamy Korean corn cheese mixture simmering hot and flavorful on the stovetop, the moment arrives for the star of the show: the cheese. Adding the mozzarella layer is a simple yet crucial step that transforms the humble corn mixture into the beloved gooey, stretchy, and utterly irresistible cheesy corn dish. The type of cheese used here, mozzarella, is key to achieving that classic pull and creamy texture once melted. The way it’s applied is equally important, ensuring an even distribution for uniform melting and a satisfying cheesy experience in every bite. This phase paves the way for the grand finale under the broiler, promising a golden, bubbly top that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Sprinkle cheese evenly, do not stir

Once your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese mixture is hot and bubbling in the skillet, remove it from the heat. This is where you’ll add the generous topping of mozzarella. Take one and a half cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the entire surface of the hot corn mixture. It’s important to create a uniform layer so that the cheese melts consistently and provides full coverage. Crucially, once the cheese is sprinkled on, do not stir. Stirring would mix the mozzarella into the corn base, preventing the formation of that distinct, gooey, bubbly layer on top that is characteristic of this popular Korean dish. The residual heat from the corn will start the melting process even before it hits the broiler, preparing it for a perfect finish.

Broil for Golden Bubbly Korean Cheese

The final and perhaps most exciting step in preparing your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is the broiling phase. This is where the magic happens, transforming the sprinkled mozzarella into a golden, bubbly, and irresistibly gooey topping. Broiling is a high-heat method that quickly melts and slightly caramelizes the cheese, creating a beautiful crust and intensifying its flavor. However, because broilers are powerful, this step requires close attention to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve a perfect balance: fully melted and bubbly cheese with just the right amount of golden-brown spots, showcasing that classic cheesy corn dish appeal. Get ready for a spectacular finish that makes this homemade Korean corn cheese truly shine.

Watch carefully to avoid burning cheese

After evenly sprinkling the mozzarella cheese over your sweet corn cheese mixture, it’s time to place the oven-safe skillet under the broiler. Make sure your oven rack is positioned about 6-8 inches from the broiler element. Turn your broiler on high. Immediately place the skillet under the broiler. This step requires your full attention. Do not walk away from the oven, even for a moment. Mozzarella can go from perfectly golden and bubbly to burnt in a matter of seconds under a hot broiler. Continuously observe the cheese through your oven door. You are looking for a beautiful, molten texture with appetizing golden-brown spots. This vigilance ensures your easy Korean corn cheese comes out perfect, without any acrid, burnt notes.

Aim for 2-3 minutes broiling time

The broiling time for your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is typically very short, often ranging from just 2 to 3 minutes. However, oven temperatures and broiler intensity can vary significantly, so relying solely on a timer isn’t advisable. Instead, use the recommended time as a guideline and prioritize visual cues. As you watch carefully, you’ll see the mozzarella cheese begin to melt rapidly, then bubble, and finally develop those desirable golden-brown edges and spots. The moment it reaches this appealing stage, remove the skillet from the oven. Over-broiling can lead to a tough, rubbery, or burnt cheese topping, which you definitely want to avoid for your perfect cheesy corn dish. The ideal outcome is a soft, stretchy, and flavorful topping.

Serve Your Easy Korean Corn Cheese

Once your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese emerges from the broiler, golden and bubbling, it’s ready to be savored. This final stage is all about presentation and enjoying the fruits of your quick and easy labor. Serving this delicious corn cheese hot is paramount, as its gooey, stretchy texture is at its peak right out of the oven. A simple garnish not only adds a fresh visual appeal but also introduces a subtle, contrasting flavor that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course accompaniment or a standalone snack, the versatility of this popular Korean dish makes it a hit in any setting. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this comforting and flavorful creation.

Garnish with fresh green onions

As soon as your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is pulled from the broiler, its fragrant, cheesy aroma will fill your kitchen. For a final flourish that adds both visual appeal and a fresh burst of flavor, sprinkle the reserved dark green tops of the sliced green onions generously over the hot, bubbly cheese. The vibrant green color provides a beautiful contrast to the golden cheese, making the dish even more inviting. Beyond aesthetics, these fresh green onions offer a mild, slightly pungent counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the corn, completing the flavor profile of this homemade Korean corn cheese. It’s a simple garnish that makes a big difference.

Enjoy with chips, toast, or BBQ

The beauty of this easy Korean corn cheese lies in its incredible versatility. While delicious on its own, it truly shines when paired with other complementary foods. Serve it immediately, piping hot from the skillet, and encourage everyone to dig in! It’s fantastic scooped up with sturdy tortilla chips or even crispy pita chips, offering a delightful textural contrast. For a heartier option, spread it onto toasted bread or baguette slices for a comforting bite. Its most traditional pairing, however, is as a side dish to Korean BBQ. The sweet, creamy, and savory notes of the corn cheese cut through the richness of grilled meats, making it an indispensable part of an authentic Korean meal. For more side dish ideas, check out Carina Recipes’ side dishes category, or perhaps a crispy parmesan chicken recipe for a full meal. You can also find more inspiration on our Pinterest and Instagram pages.

Make Sweet Creamy Korean Corn Cheese Easily

The concept of “easy” is often subjective in cooking, but when it comes to sweet creamy Korean corn cheese, the term truly applies. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The straightforward instructions, combined with readily available ingredients, ensure that anyone can successfully prepare this delicious corn cheese dish. The convenience doesn’t stop at the preparation; even the cooking process is streamlined, thanks to the efficiency of stovetop melting followed by a quick broil. This section highlights just how little time you’ll need and how generously this simple Korean corn cheese recipe serves a group, cementing its status as a go-to favorite.

Total time: only seventeen minutes

One of the most impressive features of this sweet creamy Korean corn cheese recipe is its incredibly short preparation and cooking time. From the moment you start draining the corn to the minute it emerges golden and bubbly from the broiler, you’re looking at a total time commitment of only seventeen minutes. This includes approximately 5-7 minutes for prep work (draining, slicing onions, melting butter, mixing), 5-7 minutes for stovetop cooking, and a mere 2-3 minutes for broiling. This makes it an ideal choice when you need a quick, satisfying, and delicious cheesy corn dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a spontaneous craving or as a speedy addition to your meal rotation.

Serves six people generously

Despite its quick preparation time, this easy Korean corn cheese recipe yields a surprisingly generous amount, making it perfect for sharing. The recipe is designed to serve six people as a hearty side dish or appetizer. Each serving offers a delightful portion of sweet, creamy, and cheesy goodness, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying taste. This makes it an excellent option for family dinners, potlucks, or when entertaining guests who appreciate a unique and comforting flavor. Whether you’re pairing it with a rich creamy baked mac and cheese or enjoying it as a standalone treat, you’ll find this simple Korean corn cheese dish to be both easy to make and ample in quantity.

Simple Variations for Corn Cheese Dish

While the classic sweet creamy Korean corn cheese recipe is undeniably delicious on its own, its inherent simplicity also makes it an excellent canvas for creative culinary experimentation. A popular Korean dish like this invites small tweaks that can dramatically alter its flavor profile, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. These variations can introduce new layers of taste, from a fiery kick to a sharper, more complex cheesiness, keeping the dish exciting and fresh. This section provides a couple of easy ideas to inspire you to make this homemade Korean corn cheese your own, ensuring it remains a versatile and much-loved part of your cooking repertoire.

Add jalapeños for a spicy kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding fresh or pickled jalapeños is a fantastic way to introduce a spicy kick to your sweet creamy Korean corn cheese. For fresh jalapeños, finely dice about half a medium pepper and sauté it with the butter before adding the corn, or mix it in with the corn and mayonnaise mixture. If using pickled jalapeños, drain them well and chop finely, then stir them into the corn mixture. The vibrant spice of the jalapeños will provide a thrilling contrast to the inherent sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the cheese, creating a dynamic and exciting flavor profile for your cheesy corn dish that’s sure to awaken the palate. This simple addition elevates the traditional recipe.

Try cheddar for a sharper flavor

While mozzarella is the traditional choice for its incredible melt and mild flavor in Korean corn cheese, experimenting with other cheeses can yield equally delicious results. For those who prefer a more pronounced, tangy cheese flavor, substituting or combining mozzarella with shredded cheddar cheese is an excellent option. A medium or sharp cheddar will introduce a bolder, richer taste that stands up well to the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the mayonnaise. This variation creates a more robust flavor profile for your delicious corn cheese, appealing to palates that appreciate a sharper, more assertive cheesy note. You might also consider a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for the best of both worlds.

Storing Leftover Korean Corn Cheese

Even though sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is so delicious that leftovers are rare, sometimes you might find yourself with a bit extra. Knowing how to properly store this cheesy corn dish ensures that you can enjoy its comforting flavors again without compromising on quality or safety. While many dishes fare well after a stint in the refrigerator, and some even freeze beautifully, Korean corn cheese has specific characteristics that make certain storage methods more suitable than others. Understanding these nuances will help you make the most of any remaining portions, preserving its delightful taste and texture for future enjoyment of this popular Korean dish.

Best fresh or refrigerated up to 3 days

Sweet creamy Korean corn cheese is undoubtedly at its absolute best when served fresh, straight from the oven or broiler, when the cheese is perfectly gooey and the corn mixture is piping hot. However, if you do have leftovers, they can be stored successfully in the refrigerator. Transfer any remaining homemade Korean corn cheese to an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it in a microwave or, for best results, in a small oven-safe dish covered with foil in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Not ideal for freezing, enjoy fresh

While refrigeration works well for short-term storage, freezing is generally not recommended for sweet creamy Korean corn cheese. The high moisture content of the corn and the mayonnaise-based mixture, combined with the dairy in the cheese, can lead to textural changes upon thawing and reheating. The corn may become mushy, the mayonnaise might separate, and the cheese could lose its signature gooey, stretchy quality, becoming crumbly or oily. To truly appreciate the delightful characteristics of this cheesy corn dish – its creamy texture and fresh flavors – it’s best to enjoy it fresh. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider making a smaller batch of this easy Korean corn cheese to begin with, ensuring every bite is as intended.

Nutrition Facts of Korean Corn Cheese

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your favorite dishes is an important part of a balanced diet. Sweet creamy Korean corn cheese, while incredibly delicious and comforting, is an indulgent side dish, and its nutritional content reflects its creamy, cheesy nature. As with many popular Korean dishes, it’s best enjoyed in moderation or as part of a larger, well-rounded meal. This section provides a clear overview of the caloric content per serving, giving you insight into how this delightful cheesy corn dish fits into your dietary considerations. Knowing these facts allows you to enjoy every sweet corn cheese bite mindfully, appreciating its rich flavors responsibly.

Each serving is 280 calories

When prepared according to this sweet creamy Korean corn cheese recipe, and divided into six generous servings, each individual portion contains approximately 280 calories. This calorie count reflects the rich ingredients used, including the corn, mayonnaise, butter, and, of course, the substantial amount of mozzarella cheese. While this figure provides a good estimate, actual nutritional values can vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any minor adjustments made to the recipe. This delicious corn cheese is meant to be a satisfying and flavorful treat, making it an excellent accompaniment to lighter main courses or as a hearty appetizer to share. Enjoy your homemade Korean corn cheese knowing its contribution to your daily intake.