If you are looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with the sweet pop of corn, all baked to perfection in a single dish. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that make it a standout crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or need a hearty side for your next gathering, this dish hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe plays a crucial role in building delicious layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy Velveeta to the crunchy panko topping, these essentials come together to create a dish that’s both homely and impressive.
- 14 ounces whole kernel corn: Adds a sweet, juicy burst and a delightful texture contrast with every bite.
- 14 ounces cream-style corn: Provides a creamy base that blends beautifully with the cheese sauce.
- 1½ cups water: Helps cook the macaroni right in the baking dish while keeping everything moist.
- 1½ cups whole milk: Brings richness and a smooth, velvety consistency to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional): A subtle zing that brightens the cheesy notes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth to the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a gentle smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor that rounds out the spices.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides just a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
- â…› teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Gives a hint of aromatic warmth, elevating the cheese sauce.
- 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to capture every bit of cheesy goodness.
- 16 ounces Velveeta (cubed): Melts into a super creamy, silky cheese sauce that’s the star of the dish.
- ½ cup salted butter (cubed): Adds richness and helps achieve that luscious texture.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For a crunchy, golden topping that gives a satisfying contrast.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Used to toast the breadcrumbs, infusing them with flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Seasoning for the breadcrumb topping to balance the flavors.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish to the breadcrumbs, boosting the flavor experience.
How to Make One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Setting the right temperature upfront helps ensure the mac and cheese cooks evenly and develops that perfect crust later on.
Step 2: Mix the Corn and Spice Base
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, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices and liquids are evenly distributed. This mixture is the flavorful core that will soak into the macaroni and infuse every bite with creamy, spicy, corn-sweet goodness.
Step 3: Add Pasta, Cheese, and Butter
Next, add the uncooked elbow macaroni, Velveeta cubes, and cubed salted butter to the pan. Stir everything together well so that the pasta is coated with that delicious corn mixture and the cheese and butter start to mingle with the spices and milk. This step ensures that every noodle will be enveloped in cheesy, buttery magic once it bakes.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, take it out and give everything a good stir to make sure nothing sticks and that the macaroni is cooking evenly. Cover it back up and bake for another 20 minutes. If you find the pasta is still a bit firm, don’t worry—just bake it for an extra 5 to 10 minutes uncovered. This slow bake method allows the pasta to fully absorb the creamy, cheesy sauce without drying out.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
If you’re a fan of that irresistible crunchy topping, this next part is for you. In a small skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat, then add the panko breadcrumbs and salt. Toast them slowly, stirring frequently until they’re golden brown and perfectly coated in buttery goodness. This gives the topping a wonderful nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Step 6: Finish with a Parmesan Crunch
Remove the toasted breadcrumbs from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a sharp, savory punch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the corn and the smooth cheese sauce. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese right before adding it back to the oven for the last 15 minutes. The topping bakes to a crisp, golden brown that you’ll find absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens this dish visually and adds a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness. For a little extra decadence, a drizzle of hot sauce or a handful of crispy bacon bits makes sure everyone gets their perfect flavor combo.
Side Dishes
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds a refreshing crunch and balances out the meal beautifully. Roasted vegetables also make a colorful, healthy side that complements the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets to create personalized portions that impress at dinner parties. You can even add a few crunchy tortilla strips on top for a southwestern flair, or toss in some diced jalapenos to heat things up for adventurous eaters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making the dish taste even better the next day. Just be sure to use within three to four days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Transfer cooled portions into a freezer-safe container or ziplock bags and freeze for up to two months. Avoid freezing with the breadcrumb topping added, as it may lose its crunch upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it gently in the oven at 350 degrees F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until heated through. You can add fresh breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of cheese before reheating if you want to revive the crisp topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta provides that classic creamy texture, you can experiment with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly due to moisture levels.
Is this recipe suitable for making dairy-free versions?
This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture, but you can try dairy-free cheese substitutes and plant-based milk options. The texture and flavor will be different, but it can still be a tasty alternative for those avoiding dairy.
Can I add meat or vegetables to the One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Definitely! Adding cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach can transform this dish into a more substantial meal while complementing its existing flavors beautifully.
Do I have to use mustard powder and nutmeg?
Both mustard powder and nutmeg are optional but highly recommended because they add subtle complexity that enhances the cheesy sauce. Feel free to skip them if you don’t have them on hand; your dish will still taste delicious.
What’s the best way to get a crunchy breadcrumb topping?
Using panko breadcrumbs toasted in butter with a pinch of salt and Parmesan cheese gives you that perfect golden, crispy topping that contrasts delightfully with the creamy mac and cheese beneath. Adding it during the last 15 minutes of baking locks in the texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe that makes it a treasured comfort food in any kitchen. It’s simple to make but impossible to resist, with its dreamy cheese sauce, sweet corn surprises, and that crunchy topping you’ll want to savor with every bite. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again for family, friends, or simply a cozy night in.
Print
One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese combines creamy Velveeta, a blend of whole kernel and cream-style corn, and elbow macaroni baked to perfection. Enhanced with a medley of spices and topped with crispy, buttery panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese, this casserole offers a comforting, rich, and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Core 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
- â…› teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni (454g)
- 16 ounces Velveeta, cubed
- ½ cup salted butter, cubed
Breadcrumb Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Combine the Corn and Seasonings: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, mix whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, water, whole milk, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and nutmeg thoroughly to create a flavorful base.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, Velveeta cubes, and cubed salted butter, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the corn and seasoning mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then stir well to ensure even cooking, cover again, and bake another 20 minutes. If the pasta is still too firm, continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: While the mac and cheese is baking, melt salted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and salt, toast until the breadcrumbs are golden and evenly coated with butter, then remove from heat and stir in grated parmesan cheese.
- Add Topping and Final Bake: Remove the foil from the mac and cheese, sprinkle the breadcrumb and parmesan topping evenly over the dish, then bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes to create a crisp, golden crust.
Notes
- Ensure the macaroni is fully cooked to your preferred texture before removing from the oven; additional baking time may be necessary.
- The mustard powder and nutmeg are optional but add depth to the flavor profile.
- The breadcrumb topping can be omitted for a softer mac and cheese or replaced with crushed crackers if preferred.
- Using Velveeta provides a creamy melt, but other cheese blends can be used for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; adding a bit of milk will help maintain creaminess.
