If you’re searching for a comforting yet impressive dish that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with a sweet twist of corn, you’ve absolutely got to try this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the luscious richness of Velveeta and buttery pasta with the surprising pop of whole kernel and cream-style corn, all baked to perfection in a single pan. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this recipe delivers flavor, texture, and ease in one glorious, cheesy package that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of the One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe. Each one plays a critical role in balancing creaminess, flavor depth, and an irresistible golden color that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Whole kernel corn (14 ounces): Adds delightful texture and a natural sweetness that brightens the dish.
- Cream-style corn (14 ounces): Provides silky creaminess that infuses every bite with moisture and richness.
- Water (1½ cups): Essential for cooking the pasta right in the pan without making it mushy.
- Whole milk (1½ cups): Boosts creaminess and creates the perfect sauce base for the cheese.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making every ingredient pop.
- Mustard powder (½ teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle tang that balances and deepens the cheesy flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Brings a gentle savory note that complements the sweet corn beautifully.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds mild smoky warmth and a gorgeous color tint.
- Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Lends a hint of sweetness and complexity.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and contrast.
- Ground nutmeg (â…› teaspoon, optional): Gives a unexpected warmth that pairs perfectly with cheese sauces.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni (16 ounces): Classic pasta shape that holds sauce well and feels like pure comfort food.
- Velveeta (16 ounces, cubed): The star cheese that melts flawlessly, creating that unmistakably creamy texture.
- Salted butter (½ cup, cubed): Infuses richness and helps meld the flavors as it melts into the sauce.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): For a delightfully crunchy topping that adds texture contrast.
- Salted butter (2 tablespoons): Used to toast the breadcrumbs to golden perfection.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the breadcrumb topping flavors.
- Grated parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a sharp, nutty finish on top of the breadcrumbs.
How to Make One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature to get the pasta cooking through while melting the cheese evenly and allowing those breadcrumb toppings to crisp up beautifully later on.
Step 2: Combine Corn and Seasonings
In a 9×13-inch pan, thoroughly mix together the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, water, whole milk, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. This blend forms the flavorful base that the pasta will cook in, infusing it with both savory depth and sweet corn magic.
Step 3: Add Pasta, Cheese, and Butter
Next, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, cubed Velveeta, and salted butter. Make sure every elbow macaroni piece gets coated with the creamy, slightly sweet corn mixture. This step is what guarantees each bite is rich and velvety with that classic mac and cheese indulgence.
Step 4: Bake Covered and Stir
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, take it out and give everything a good stir to prevent sticking and help the macaroni cook evenly. Recover and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes. If the macaroni feels a little firmer than you like, simply bake it for an extra 5 to 10 minutes until it reaches perfect tenderness.
Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
If you love a crispy crust on your mac and cheese, heat a small skillet and toss in the panko breadcrumbs, butter, and salt. Toast them over medium heat until the crumbs are golden and coated with buttery goodness. This topping adds a wonderful texture contrast that takes the dish to the next level.
Step 6: Finish Baking with Topping
Remove the toasted breadcrumbs from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese and return the pan to the oven uncovered for the last 15 minutes of baking. This final step creates a crunchy, cheesy topping that’s utterly irresistible.
How to Serve One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. Not only do these add a bright splash of color, but they also offer a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly balances the richness. A dash of smoked paprika over the breadcrumbs can also add a smoky allure and beautiful color contrast.
Side Dishes
This one-dish wonder pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads to cut through the richness. Try a tangy coleslaw, a zesty arugula salad, or even roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans. For a heartier meal, add a protein like grilled chicken or baked sausage on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe straight from the casserole dish for a cozy, family-style vibe. Alternatively, dish it out in individual ramekins topped with extra breadcrumbs and a sprig of herb for a stunning presentation at parties. For fun twists, try stirring in bits of cooked bacon or jalapeños before baking to surprise your guests with unexpected pops of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep it sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. When ready to eat, you’ll find the flavors richly melded and even more comforting after a day or two.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save some for later. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty ziplock bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just note that the breadcrumb topping may lose its crunch after freezing, but the creamy cheesy goodness remains intact.
Reheating
Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until warmed throughout. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy and stirring halfway through heating to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Velveeta?
Velveeta is famous for its smooth melting qualities, making this recipe ultra-creamy. However, you can substitute with a mix of mild cheddar and American cheese slices for a similar effect. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly less silky.
Do I need to pre-cook the macaroni before baking?
Nope! This recipe is designed for uncooked elbow macaroni to bake right in the sauce mixture. The combination of liquid from milk, water, and corn helps cook the pasta perfectly in the oven.
Is the breadcrumb topping necessary?
The crunchy breadcrumb topping is optional but highly recommended. It adds a lovely texture contrast that enhances each bite. If you prefer a softer dish, feel free to skip this step or sprinkle shredded cheese on top instead.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, you’d need to swap the Velveeta for a dairy-free cheese product, use a plant-based milk, and replace butter with a vegan alternative. While the flavor will differ, the dish can still be tasty with these adjustments.
What’s the best pan size to use?
A standard 9×13 inch baking pan works perfectly to fit all the ingredients and allow enough surface area for even baking and browning. Using a smaller or larger pan may affect cooking times.
Final Thoughts
This One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for feeding a hungry group. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover your new favorite weeknight dinner or special occasion side. Trust me, once you make it, this cheesy, corn-filled delight will become a cherished staple in your kitchen!
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 is a comforting and cheesy casserole that combines the sweet flavors of whole kernel and cream-style corn with creamy Velveeta cheese and tender elbow macaroni. Baked to perfection with a golden, buttery panko and parmesan breadcrumb topping, it makes a delicious and easy meal that serves 8 people.
Ingredients
Base 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)
Main Ingredients
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Corn and Liquids: In a 9×13-inch baking pan, combine whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, water, whole milk, salt, mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Stir in elbow macaroni, cubed Velveeta, and salted butter. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the corn mixture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, stir well, cover again, and bake for another 20 minutes. If the pasta is still firm, bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until tender.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small skillet, melt the butter and add panko breadcrumbs along with salt. Toast over medium heat until breadcrumbs are evenly coated and golden brown. Remove from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese.
- Add Topping and Final Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Return to oven and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
Notes
- For a smoother cheese sauce, stir the macaroni well after the first 20 minutes of baking.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the mustard powder and nutmeg.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor in the breadcrumb topping.
- Velveeta cheese melts smoothly and adds creaminess, but you can substitute with cheddar or a cheese blend if preferred.
- The breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunchy texture but can be omitted for a softer mac and cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
