Name: One Dish Corn Mac: 7 Comforting Cheesy Delights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons salted butter; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

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One Dish Corn Mac is a delightful and comforting meal that combines the rich creaminess of cheese with the sweetness of corn. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a family favorite that transforms ordinary days into special occasions. Imagine the aroma of baked pasta wafting through your home, inviting everyone to the dinner table. The One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy evening at home. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This One Dish Corn Mac

This One Dish Corn Mac combines simplicity and flavor in a way that appeals to everyone. Here are several reasons to love it:

It’s a one-pot corn mac, saving you from excessive cleanup.
Only 10 minutes of prep time needed, making it a quick corn mac meal.
Rich and creamy, perfect for comfort food cravings.
Versatile and can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables.
Great for vegetarians, making it a fantastic vegetarian corn mac recipe.
Perfect for family dinners or a friendly gathering.

This dish is a wonderful representation of American cuisine, and its healthy one-pot corn mac approach makes it even more appealing.

Ingredients for One Dish Corn Mac

Gather these items:

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)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons salted butter
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese

How to Make One Dish Corn Mac Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 2: Add all 14 ounces whole kernel corn, 14 ounces cream-style corn, 1½ cups water, 1½ cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon mustard powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg to a 9×13-inch pan and mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Add in 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni, 16 ounces Velveeta, and ½ cup salted butter, and stir to coat with the corn mixture.
Step 4: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Stir well, recover, and bake for another 20 minutes. If the macaroni is still too al dente, bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: If you like a breadcrumb topping for your mac and cheese, add 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons salted butter, and ¼ teaspoon salt to a small skillet and toast until the butter is melted and evenly coats the breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle it over the top of the mac and cheese and add it during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Dish Corn Mac

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the mixture.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on the classic corn mac and cheese.

Best Ways to Serve One Dish Corn Mac

This easy corn mac dish can be served in many ways:

Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
Top with crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.

How to Store and Reheat One Dish Corn Mac

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Just make sure to cover it to retain moisture. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Dish Corn Mac

What’s the secret to perfect One Dish Corn Mac?

The secret lies in balancing the cheese and corn flavors. Using a mix of creamy and sharp cheeses can elevate the taste, making it a standout corn macaroni casserole.

Can I make One Dish Corn Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it just before serving. This is perfect for a quick corn mac meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Dish Corn Mac?

Ensure you don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking. Stirring well before baking helps achieve even cooking throughout.

Variations of One Dish Corn Mac You Can Try

Feel free to explore these variations:

Add diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients in your corn mac with vegetables.
Substitute some macaroni with quinoa for a healthier twist.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive option.

With these variations, you can enjoy this dish tailored to your preferences while keeping it a delightful one-dish comfort food.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup as a comforting side dish.

One Dish Corn Mac: 7 Comforting Cheesy Delights - One Dish Corn Mac - additional detail

For more tips on cooking, visit this creamy Italian sausage recipe for a delightful twist on your meals.

One Dish Corn Mac: 7 Comforting Cheesy Delights

Author: basmer
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with sweet corn, this One-Dish Corn Mac and Cheese is an easy dump-and-bake pasta recipe the whole family will love.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Add all 14 ounces whole kernel corn, 14 ounces cream-style corn, 1½ cups water, 1½ cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon mustard powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg to a 9×13-inch pan and mix thoroughly.
Add in 16 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni, 16 ounces Velveeta, and ½ cup salted butter, and stir to coat with the corn mixture.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Stir well, recover, and bake for another 20 minutes. If the macaroni is still too al dente, bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
If you like a breadcrumb topping for your mac and cheese, add 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons salted butter, and ¼ teaspoon salt to a small skillet and toast until the butter is melted and evenly coats the breadcrumbs.
Remove from heat and stir in the ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle it over the top of the mac and cheese and add it during the last 15 minutes of baking.