Cheesy Corn Squares: A Taste of Sunshine

The aroma of corn baking in the oven always takes me back to summer afternoons spent at my grandmother’s farmhouse. She would whip up these cheesy corn squares for every potluck and family gathering, and they were always the first thing to disappear. The sweetness of the corn, the tang of the ricotta, and the golden, bubbly cheese topping—it’s a flavor combination that’s pure comfort food. Now, I love recreating this dish and sharing a piece of that sunny nostalgia with my own family and friends.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: Variable, depending on square size
• Yield: 1 (13×9 inch) pan
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 1 (15 1/4 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/3 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• 13×9 inch baking dish
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 13×9 inch baking dish thoroughly. This will prevent the corn squares from sticking and ensure they release easily when cut.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, minced fresh parsley, baking soda, seasoning salt, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures that they are evenly distributed, resulting in a consistent flavor throughout the finished dish.

3. In the same bowl, add the beaten eggs, drained whole kernel corn, ricotta cheese, finely chopped onion, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and vegetable oil. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher texture.

4. Next, add 4 ounces (half) of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the corn mixture. Stir to incorporate the cheese evenly throughout. This creates a gooey, cheesy interior that complements the sweetness of the corn.

5. Pour the corn mixture into the prepared, greased 13×9 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

6. Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the corn mixture. This will create a beautiful golden-brown, bubbly crust.

7. Finally, sprinkle the paprika over the mozzarella cheese. Paprika not only adds a touch of color but also enhances the savory flavors of the dish.

8. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

9. Once baked, remove the corn squares from the oven and let them cool slightly before cutting into squares. This allows the mixture to set and makes it easier to cut neat, even portions.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese instead of pre-shredded.
• If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried parsley.
• To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the corn mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before baking.
• To prevent the cheese from burning, broil for the last minute or two of baking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cheesy corn squares can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a great side dish for grilled meats, chicken, or fish. Cut into smaller squares, they also make a delicious appetizer for parties or gatherings.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the corn squares in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	315 kcal	16%
Total Fat	20g	31%
Saturated Fat	9g	45%
Cholesterol	110mg	37%
Sodium	497mg	21%
Total Carbohydrate	23g	8%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	2g	N/A
Protein	12g	24%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Corn Squares: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the corn mixture for a kick.
• Herbed Corn Squares: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or chives, to add a unique flavor profile.
• Mexican Corn Squares: Add 1/2 cup of drained and diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) and replace the Parmesan with Monterey Jack cheese.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free ricotta cheese alternative and vegan mozzarella shreds. Be sure to check the seasoning salt label to confirm it is also dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the mixture.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the corn squares?
A: Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be delicious additions.

Q: How do I prevent the corn squares from sticking to the baking dish?
A: Make sure to grease the baking dish thoroughly before pouring in the corn mixture. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, these corn squares freeze well. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and freezing.

Q: What is seasoning salt?
A: Seasoning salt is a blend of salt and other spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. It adds a savory flavor to the dish.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy corn squares are more than just a side dish; they’re a little piece of sunshine on a plate. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed. And if you have any variations or tips of your own, please share them in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you make this classic dish your own. Enjoy!