Delicious Pairings For Corn And Cheese: A Culinary Adventure

Corn and cheese are a classic combination, and there are endless ways to serve them together. A popular option is corn on the cob with a creamy cheese topping, such as Mexican corn on the cob (elote) which is grilled and then coated in a spread made from mayonnaise, sour cream, or Greek yogurt, and crumbly cheese such as cotija, feta, or queso fresco. Another option is TikTok corn cheese, which is made with canned corn, butter, cheese, and mayo, and can be served as a side dish with chicken, steak, or BBQ. Corn and cheese can also be combined to make a casserole, such as cheesy corn casserole, which can be served as a side dish or a dip. This casserole typically includes cream cheese, Velveeta, and/or shredded cheddar cheese, and can be baked in the oven or made on the stovetop.

Corn and cheese with chicken breast, steak, or BBQ

Corn and cheese are a classic combination, and for good reason! The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the savoury, salty cheese. This duo is a great side dish for many meals, including chicken breast, steak, and BBQ. Here are some ideas and recipes to elevate your corn and cheese experience.

Chicken Breast

For a tasty weeknight meal, why not try Mexican Street Corn Chicken? This dish combines the sweetness of corn kernels with creamy queso fresco cheese, fresh lime juice, and savoury chili powder. The corn topping pairs perfectly with chicken breast cutlets seasoned with a homemade Mexican rub. It's a quick and easy recipe that's sure to become a favourite.

Steak

Corn and cheese can also be a delicious accompaniment to a juicy steak. Try making a simple corn cheese side dish, such as the viral TikTok Corn Cheese recipe. This dish uses canned corn, butter, cheese, and mayo, and can be easily prepared on a stovetop. The creamy, cheesy corn will complement your steak perfectly.

BBQ

Corn and cheese are also a natural fit for BBQs. Try making Korean Corn Cheese, a simple and delicious side dish commonly served with Korean BBQ. It's made with fresh corn, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, sugar, and green onions. Baked until bubbly and browned, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ.

Alternatively, you can make Cheesy Corn, a side dish that goes well with barbecue or grilled meat. This dish is similar to mac and cheese but uses corn kernels instead of pasta. It's a creamy, smoky treat that your guests will love.

So, whether you're firing up the grill, cooking a steak, or roasting a chicken breast, corn and cheese are a versatile and tasty addition to your meal. Get creative and enjoy the perfect pairing of corn and cheese!

Corn and cheese with macaroni and cheese

Corn and cheese is a versatile combination that can be served as a side dish or incorporated into a main course. One popular option is to create a creamy corn and cheese casserole, which can be served alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. This casserole can also be a delicious dip for tortilla or corn chips.

Now, let's explore how corn and cheese can be combined with macaroni and cheese to create a hearty and indulgent dish:

Corn and Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that can be elevated by adding corn and cheese. This combination creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the corn providing a pop of colour and texture. Here are some tips to create this indulgent meal:

Ingredients

• Dried or fresh pasta of your choice (elbow macaroni, shells, or penne work well)
• Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Cheeses: a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any variety of your choice
• Milk or cream
• Butter
• Flour
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika

Instructions

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• If using fresh corn, boil or grill the corn cobs and then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen or canned corn, ensure it is thoroughly drained.
• In a large saucepan, melt butter and sprinkle in flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
• Slowly whisk in milk or cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
• Reduce the heat and add shredded cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste.
• Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
• Gently fold in the corn kernels, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
• Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese before baking.
• Add diced jalapeños or green chillies to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate diced tomatoes or onions for added colour, texture, and flavour.
• Serve the corn and cheese macaroni and cheese with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
• For an extra indulgent touch, top the dish with crispy bacon bits.

Corn and cheese macaroni and cheese is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be tailored to your taste preferences. It is a fun and flavourful twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, perfect for a comforting dinner or to share at a potluck.

Corn and cheese with beef chilli

Corn and cheese are a classic combination, and there are many ways to elevate this dish. One way to make a hearty meal out of corn and cheese is to add beef chilli to the mix. This dish is perfect for a cosy night in or a get-together with friends and family. Here's a step-by-step guide to making Corn and Cheese with Beef Chilli:

Ingredients:

• Corn: You can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn for this recipe. If you opt for fresh corn, make sure to sauté or boil it beforehand.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can also use other shredded cheeses like mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses.
• Beef: Ground beef or minced beef is ideal for this recipe. You'll need around 500g for a generous serving.
• Spices: Cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper are essential for adding flavour and warmth to your chilli. Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
• Beans: Red kidney beans are a classic choice for chilli, but you can also use other types of beans like black beans or pinto beans.
• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, and garlic form the base of your chilli. You can also add chopped tomatoes or tomato paste for extra flavour.
• Butter: This will help bring the dish together and add a creamy texture.
• Sour cream or yoghurt: These dairy products will balance out the spice and add a tangy twist.

Method:

• Start by heating some oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
• Add your diced onions and cook until translucent. Then, add the bell peppers and garlic, cooking for a further 2-3 minutes.
• Turn up the heat and add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up as you go.
• Add your spice mix to the beef and cook for a few minutes to release the flavours.
• Toss in the corn, beans, and their juices, along with the tomatoes or tomato paste. Give everything a good stir.
• For a quick cook, simmer the chilli for 20-40 minutes on medium-low heat. If you have more time, opt for a slow cook of 1.5-2 hours on low heat for extra tender beef.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve your corn and cheese with beef chilli in a variety of ways. You can choose to ladle it into bowls, serve it over rice, or offer corn chips or warm tortillas on the side for dunking.

Tips and Variations:

• If you're serving a large group, double or triple the recipe to ensure you have enough.
• For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the chilli before serving.
• To balance out the spice, offer sour cream or yoghurt as a topping. Fresh coriander, sliced green onions, and diced red onions also make great toppings.
• If you're serving this dish at a party, keep it warm in a slow cooker or crockpot on the lowest setting.
• For an extra kick of flavour, add some diced jalapeños or your favourite chilli to the mix.

Corn and cheese with chilli mac

Corn and cheese are a great combination, and you can elevate this pairing by adding chilli mac to create a delicious and hearty meal. Here's a step-by-step guide to making Corn and Cheese with Chilli Mac:

Ingredients:

• Corn
• Cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any variety of your choice)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Onion, finely chopped
• Red bell pepper, chopped
• Ground beef
• Crushed canned tomatoes
• Canned red kidney beans, drained
• Beef or chicken broth
• Elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked)
• Spices: cayenne pepper/chilli powder, paprika powder, cumin powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and black pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh coriander/cilantro, finely chopped (optional)

Method:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
• Add garlic and onion, sautéing for about 1 minute until translucent.
• Toss in the red bell pepper and continue cooking.
• Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as you go, until it turns brown.
• Once the beef is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, broth, and all the spices except for the cheese.
• Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
• Add the uncooked elbow macaroni pasta and ensure it is fully submerged in the liquid.
• Cover the pot and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. You want it to be just cooked but still a bit firm, as it will continue cooking in the residual heat.
• As soon as the pasta is done to your liking, turn off the heat but leave the pot on the stove.
• Stir in half the amount of cheese you have prepared, adjusting the salt and pepper to taste.
• Top with the remaining cheese, put the lid back on, and let it sit for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts. The sauce will continue to be absorbed during this time.
• Sprinkle with freshly chopped coriander/cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• You can make this recipe in one pot, making clean-up a breeze!
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chilli powder.
• If you prefer a different type of protein, you can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, pork, turkey, or even lamb.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the beef and add more beans or your favourite plant-based meat substitute.
• This dish is freezer-friendly. Simply cool it down, place it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost overnight and sprinkle with extra cheese before popping it back in the microwave.

Enjoy your Corn and Cheese with Chilli Mac! It's a comforting and tasty meal that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Corn and cheese with roasted chicken

Corn and cheese are a classic combination, and there are many ways to elevate this duo and make it a more substantial meal. One way is to serve it with roasted chicken. Here are some ideas and recipes to try:

Roasted Chicken and Corn Side Dish Ideas:

• A simple roasted chicken with garlic salt and pepper can be a delicious main course when served with a corn and cheese side. Try adding veggies or potatoes to the chicken cavity to enhance the flavours.
• For a more indulgent side, try a creamy, cheesy corn casserole made with cream cheese, or a TikTok-famous corn and cheese recipe with canned corn, butter, cheese, and mayo.
• For a lighter option, grill corn on the cob and top it with a spread made from mayonnaise, chilli powder, garlic powder, and Greek yoghurt. Then sprinkle with crumbly cheese and a squeeze of lime.
• A sweet corn salad with red bell pepper, herbs, and grated pecorino and Parmesan cheeses is another fresh option to accompany roasted chicken.

Hearty Main Course Ideas:

• For a more substantial meal, serve the corn and cheese with a whole roast chicken and a hearty side like macaroni and cheese, or chilli mac.
• Chicken pot pie is another option that pairs well with the sweetness of corn and cheese.
• If you're looking for something spicy, try serving the corn and cheese with a jalapeno cheddar-stuffed chicken tender main course.

Other Ideas:

• For a different protein option, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin goes well with corn and cheese, especially when served with roasted vegetables.
• If you're looking for a vegetarian option, a crispy brussels sprout side dish can accompany the corn and cheese, along with the main course of your choice.

There are many ways to incorporate corn and cheese into a meal featuring roasted chicken. Get creative and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions