Korean Corn Cheese Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Korean Corn Cheese, a delicious fusion side dish popular in Korean BBQ restaurants. This easy baking recipe combines sweet corn with creamy mayo and melted cheese for an irresistible appetizer that comes together in minutes. Perfect for sharing!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

15 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">400g fresh or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60g mayonnaise</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30g unsalted butter, softened</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">150g mozzarella cheese, grated</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">50g cheddar cheese, grated (optional)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tablespoon sugar</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2-3 green onions, thinly sliced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or paprika (optional)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and pepper to taste</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">20cm (8-inch) cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Mixing bowl</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/400°F). If using a cast-iron skillet, you can use the same pan for cooking and serving, which helps maintain heat and creates a more impressive presentation. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> If using fresh corn, cut the kernels from the cob. If using frozen corn, ensure it's completely thawed and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this ensures your dish won't become watery and the cheese melts properly. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> In a mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, mayonnaise, softened butter, half of the grated mozzarella, sugar, half of the sliced green onions, and salt and pepper to taste. The butter adds a rich flavor while the mayonnaise creates creaminess that coats the corn evenly. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Transfer the corn mixture to your skillet or oven-safe dish, spreading it into an even layer. The even distribution ensures consistent cooking and melting of the cheese. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Top the corn mixture with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the cheddar cheese (if using). The combination of cheeses creates a more complex flavor profile and that perfect cheese pull when served. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling around the edges. For a more caramelized top, switch to the grill/broiler setting for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. This creates those irresistible brown spots on the cheese. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining green onions and gochugaru or paprika if using. The residual heat will slightly wilt the green onions, releasing their flavor while maintaining some freshness. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving – the mixture is extremely hot straight from the oven and the brief resting time allows the flavors to settle while still keeping the cheese wonderfully stretchy. Serve directly in the cooking vessel for a rustic presentation that keeps the dish warm longer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Enjoy this Korean Corn Cheese as a side dish with Korean BBQ, as an appetizer with crusty bread for dipping, or simply as a delicious snack on its own. The contrasting textures of sweet corn kernels and melty cheese create an addictive dish that's sure to be requested again and again! </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Korean Corn Cheese?

The main ingredients are corn kernels, mayonnaise, butter, mozzarella cheese, and green onions. Optional additions include cheddar cheese, sugar for sweetness, and gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or paprika for a hint of spice and color.

How to cook Korean Corn Cheese at home?

Learn how to cook Korean Corn Cheese by mixing corn kernels with mayonnaise, butter, cheese and seasonings, then baking in a cast-iron skillet until bubbling and golden. The key is getting the cheese perfectly melted with slightly caramelised edges while maintaining the corn's sweetness. It's ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish!

Can I make this corn cheese dish in advance for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the corn mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply top with cheese and bake until bubbly. This make-ahead approach works brilliantly for entertaining, though the texture is best when freshly baked with that perfect cheese pull.

What makes Korean corn cheese different from other cheesy corn dishes?

Korean corn cheese uniquely balances sweet and savoury with its combination of sugar, mayonnaise and cheese. The dish is typically served bubbling hot in the same skillet it's cooked in, creating those distinctive caramelised edges. It's designed specifically as a shared side dish for Korean BBQ meals.

What can I serve with corn cheese to create an authentic Korean meal?

Pair corn cheese with Korean BBQ meats like bulgogi or galbi, alongside traditional banchan (side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled radish, and namul (seasoned vegetables). Complete the experience with steamed rice and ssamjang (dipping sauce) for wrapping meat in lettuce leaves.

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