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Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie – A Creamy, Savory Comfort Dish

When summer’s golden corn meets the sharp creaminess of cheddar cheese, something magical happens—Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie. This dish is a cozy, savory pie that can be served as a main course, a comforting side dish, or even the star of your next brunch. Unlike traditional pies that lean sweet, this pie balances the natural sweetness of fresh corn with savory cheddar, aromatic onions, and a light breadcrumb topping for crunch. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect blend of rustic comfort and simple elegance. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, serving it alongside roasted meats, or enjoying it as a vegetarian-friendly main dish, this pie is versatile, delicious, and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make with everyday ingredients and works beautifully with both fresh or frozen corn kernels.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pie Filling
  • 4 cups fresh or thawed corn kernels
  • 1 cup yellow onion finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 3 large eggs
  • ⅔ cup milk half plant-based milk and half dairy, or use half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded soft cheese cheddar, Colby, or Monterey Jack all work
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • ¾ teaspoon white pepper ground
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Topping
  • ¾ cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chives finely chopped

Equipment

  • To make cheddar sweet corn pie, you’ll need:
  • 9-inch pie dish (or small casserole dish)
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Optional:
  • Food processor (to finely chop onions or garlic)
  • Pastry brush (for greasing the dish with butter)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Garlic
  1. In a skillet, melt a small amount of butter.
  2. Sauté onions until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Custard Base
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
  2. Stir in shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Filling
  1. Add sautéed onions, garlic, and corn kernels to the egg mixture.
  2. Mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter.
  3. Pour corn and cheese mixture into the dish.
Step 5: Add the Topping
  1. In a small bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with melted butter and chives.
  2. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the pie.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Place pie dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until set in the center and golden brown on top.
  2. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño to the onion and garlic sauté.
Southwestern Twist: Mix in black beans, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of cumin.
Herb Lovers’ Pie: Add fresh thyme or rosemary along with chives.
Extra Creamy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese to the filling.
Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack for spice, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Crust Option: Use a traditional pie crust under the filling for more structure.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain before using.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Colby, Monterey Jack, or a mix works well.
Do I need a pie crust?
No, this is a crustless pie—it holds together with eggs and cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake it a day before and reheat before serving.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter, milk, and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Is this pie gluten-free?
Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I add meat to this pie?
Yes, cooked chicken or turkey sausage can be folded into the filling.
Why is my pie watery?
Extra liquid from frozen corn can cause this—drain well before mixing.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
Absolutely—it’s hearty enough to stand alone with a side salad.
What goes well with cheddar sweet corn pie?
Serve with roasted chicken, grilled veggies, or a crisp green salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie is a dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of corn while embracing the richness of cheese and the savoriness of herbs. With its crunchy breadcrumb topping and creamy filling, it’s as comforting as it is versatile.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you enjoy it as a side or make it the star of your table, cheddar sweet corn pie is a dish everyone will come back for.