This Slow Cooker Cheesy Jalapeno Corn is an absolute game-changer for side dishes, bringing a spicy kick that perfectly complements the creamy, comforting blend of corn and cream cheese. It's delightfully easy to prepare and guarantees to elevate any meal, making it an irresistible companion to classic southern main dishes.
This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also ensures a consistently good texture every time, thanks to the use of canned corn. A definite must-try for those looking to spice up their mealtime!
Slow Cooker Cheesy Jalapeno Corn
Ingredients:
- Canned corn
- Cheese
- Jalapeños
- Seasoning
- Cream cheese
Customization Ideas
While the Slow Cooker Cheesy Jalapeno Corn is delicious as written, there are numerous ways you can customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits or diced ham towards the end of cooking for a heartier dish.
- Vary the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for new flavors; pepper jack cheese can add an extra kick, while a mix of cheddar and Monterey jack creates a smoother taste.
- Greenery and Color: Add diced red bell peppers or green onions for a pop of color and a slight crunch.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, remove the seeds, or use canned green chilis instead.
- Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, consider blending in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Instructions:
- Mix the corn, cheese, jalapeño, and seasoning together first in the slow cooker.
- Slice the cream cheese into cubes and place them on top of the corn mixture in the slow cooker. Do not mix it in; let it sit on top.
- Cook as per your slow cooker's settings.
- After Cooking: Once the cooking time is done, the cream cheese, which has been left on top, will have melted. This is when you stir it into the mix to combine with the cheese and corn, creating a creamy sauce quite easily.
- Serve: Enjoy this cheesy, slightly spicy side dish as a complement to southern main dishes like fried chicken, barbecue brisket, or slow cooker pulled pork.
Serving Size
This delectable Slow Cooker Cheesy Jalapeno Corn recipe typically serves 6-8 people as a side dish, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Portions can easily be adjusted by scaling the recipe up or down depending on your needs.
Serving Suggestions
The rich and spicy flavor of this corn dish pairs exceptionally well with barbecue and grilled meats, making it a standout side for summer cookouts. It complements pulled pork, grilled chicken, or even a classic barbecue brisket beautifully. For a more comprehensive meal, consider adding a fresh garden salad or a slice of hearty cornbread to round out the dining experience.
Leftover Guidelines
Leftovers of Cheesy Jalapeno Corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you might prefer using a microwave or stove top. For the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout, stirring halfway through. On the stove top, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat. Adding a dash of milk or water to keep it moist, stirring occasionally until thoroughly warmed.