If you’re on the hunt for a true comfort food champion, look no further than this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful burst of sweet corn that brings a fresh twist to the classic mac and cheese. What makes this recipe so special is how effortlessly it comes together in a single dish, meaning you can skip the multitasking and dive straight into a warm, cheesy, satisfying dinner. Whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a cozy weekend treat, this dish promises rich flavor and a beautiful balance of textures that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, each one plays a vital role in building the vibrant flavors and comforting texture of this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe. From creamy cheeses to tender pasta and sweet corn, these ingredients come together like a culinary dream team.
- Whole kernel corn (14 ounces): Adds a juicy pop and beautiful texture that complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Cream-style corn (14 ounces): Provides a luscious, velvety base that enriches the sauce’s flavor and body.
- Water (1½ cups): Helps cook the pasta right in the dish, ensuring everything melds together flawlessly.
- Whole milk (1½ cups): Brings creamy richness and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Mustard powder (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle tang and depth to the cheesy sauce.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Infuses a gentle savory note that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a warm, smoky hint and vibrant color.
- Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Contributes mild sweetness and complexity.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Offers a mild heat to balance the creaminess.
- Ground nutmeg (⅛ teaspoon, optional): Adds an unexpected aromatic warmth that elevates the sauce.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni (16 ounces): The classic pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Velveeta cheese (16 ounces, cubed): Melts smoothly for that signature creamy, cheesy texture.
- Salted butter (½ cup, cubed): Enhances richness and creates a silky sauce.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): For an irresistibly crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy pasta.
- Salted butter (2 tablespoons): Used for toasting the breadcrumbs, adding nutty flavor and crispness.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Ensures the topping is perfectly seasoned.
- Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Sprinkled over the breadcrumbs for a sharp, savory kick on top.
How to Make One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your mac and cheese cooks evenly and develops that beautiful, golden crust we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Combine Corns, Liquids, and Seasonings
In a 9×13-inch baking pan, pour in both the whole kernel corn and cream-style corn, the water, whole milk, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, ground black pepper, and nutmeg. Give everything a good stir to mix all the flavors together evenly—this forms the savory, flavorful base for your mac and cheese magic.
Step 3: Add Pasta, Cheese, and Butter
Next, pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni, Velveeta cubes, and half a cup of salted butter. Stir everything well, making sure the pasta is coated with the rich, cheesy corn mixture. This step is crucial because the pasta will cook directly in the sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Step 4: Bake Covered and Stir Halfway
Cover your pan tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then take it out and give it a thorough stir to distribute heat and melt the cheese evenly. Cover it again and back it for another 20 minutes. If your macaroni still feels a bit firm, don’t hesitate to bake it for an additional 5 to 10 minutes—you want it tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping
While the mac and cheese bakes, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Toss in the panko breadcrumbs and ¼ teaspoon salt, stirring until the breadcrumbs are golden and butter-coated. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese, adding a cheesy, crispy layer that elevates this dish into pure comfort food heaven.
Step 6: Add the Topping and Finish Baking
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of your mac and cheese, then return the dish to the oven uncovered. Bake for the last 15 minutes to achieve that irresistible golden crust. Once bubbly and perfectly golden, it’s time to dig in!
How to Serve One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness that cuts through the dish’s richness. For the adventurous, a dash of smoked paprika or a handful of crispy bacon bits can also enhance the flavor profile wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This mac and cheese stands well on its own but pairs exceptionally with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to balance out the creamy sauce. Consider steamed broccoli or garlic sautéed spinach to bring some green goodness alongside the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fuss-free family dinner, serve it straight from the baking dish with a large spoon for everyone to help themselves. Hosting a potluck? Transfer portions into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation that makes every guest feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, though to keep the texture at its best, it’s a good idea to freeze it before adding the breadcrumb topping. Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to prevent drying out. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses instead of Velveeta?
Absolutely! While Velveeta melts beautifully for that creamy texture, you can substitute with a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a more traditional mac and cheese flavor.
Is it necessary to use both whole kernel and cream-style corn?
Using both creates a wonderful contrast between sweet kernels and creamy corn sauce, but if you only have one type on hand, the dish will still be delicious—just expect a slightly different texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap out the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping to keep all the flavors intact without the gluten.
How spicy is this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe?
It’s very mild and creamy, with just a gentle hint of warmth from the paprika and pepper—perfect for all ages and taste preferences.
Can I prepare this dish vegan?
While this recipe is rooted in cheese and butter, you can try vegan cheeses and plant-based milks as alternatives. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different but still tasty!
Final Thoughts
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe is one I keep coming back to whenever I crave something creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit special. It’s so satisfying without being complicated, and the sweet corn adds a fresh twist that elevates the classic comfort food to something truly memorable. Give this one a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy mac and cheese!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting casserole that combines the sweetness of whole kernel and cream-style corn with rich Velveeta cheese and tender elbow macaroni. Baked to perfection with a golden, buttery panko breadcrumb and parmesan topping, this dish is both hearty and flavorful—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces whole kernel corn (432g, drained)
- 14 ounces cream-style corn (418g)
- 1½ cups water (360mL)
- 1½ cups whole milk (360mL)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni (454g)
- 16 ounces Velveeta (cubed)
- ½ cup salted butter (cubed)
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, water, whole milk, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, ground black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Stir thoroughly to blend flavors evenly.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, cubed Velveeta cheese, and cubed salted butter to the corn mixture. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is coated with the corn and cheese mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, stir well to mix, then cover again and bake for another 20 minutes. If the macaroni is still firm to your liking, continue baking uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until tender.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small skillet over medium heat, combine panko breadcrumbs, salted butter, and salt. Toast the mixture, stirring frequently, until the butter melts and coats all the breadcrumbs evenly. Remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese.
- Add Topping and Final Bake: Sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb and parmesan topping over the mac and cheese. Return the pan to the oven and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes to allow the topping to brown and crisp.
Notes
- You can substitute Velveeta with a combination of cheddar and American cheese if preferred, though the creamy texture will differ slightly.
- For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture before baking.
- Ensure the macaroni is fully submerged in liquid to guarantee even cooking; stir halfway through if needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
