Korean Corn Cheese – A Complete Guide
Introduction
Korean Corn Cheese is a gloriously indulgent, gooey side dish that combines sweet corn kernels with rich, stretchy melted cheese. It’s a modern Korean favorite, often served as anju (food paired with drinks) in bars and restaurants, where the cheesy pull and subtle sweetness make it irresistible alongside beer or soju. The dish is simple yet addictive: sweet corn mixed with creamy mayonnaise, topped with a generous layer of mozzarella that bubbles and browns, then finished with chopped green onions for a fresh contrast. It can be made in a skillet on the stovetop or baked in the oven, and the version in your photo appears to be the classic skillet-style with plenty of cheese stretch and green onion garnish. This dish perfectly captures Korea’s love for combining Western ingredients (like cheese and mayo) with familiar Korean flavors.
History
Korean Corn Cheese emerged in the early 2000s during South Korea’s “cheese boom,” when dairy products became widely popular and affordable. Cheese was once rare in traditional Korean cuisine, but increased exposure to Western foods, American military influences, and the rise of fusion dishes led to creative uses of mozzarella and mayonnaise. Corn Cheese is believed to have started in pojangmacha (street food tents) and bars as a quick, comforting anju. It draws loose inspiration from American creamed corn or corn casseroles but was adapted with Korean sweet corn and mayo for a distinctly rich, sweet-savory profile. Today it’s a staple in Korean BBQ restaurants, home cooking, and even chain menus worldwide.
Ingredients (Serves 4 as a side dish)
- 2 cans (15 oz / 425g each) sweet corn kernels, drained (or 4 cups frozen/thawed corn)
- 3–4 tablespoons mayonnaise (Korean or Japanese mayo preferred for milder sweetness)
- 1–2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste; optional if corn is very sweet)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1½–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture works best for stretching)
- 2–3 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: diced bell pepper, cooked bacon bits, or a sprinkle of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for heat
Instructions and Methods
There are two common methods: stovetop (quick, matches the skillet look in your photo) and oven-baked (bubblier top). Both take under 20 minutes.
Stovetop Method (Recommended for the photo-style cheesy pull)
- Heat a medium cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the drained corn kernels, mayonnaise, sugar, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and heat through for 3–4 minutes, until the mixture is creamy and warmed.
- Spread the corn mixture evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the top in an even layer.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low for 4–6 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and stretchy. For browned spots, remove the lid and increase heat slightly for the last 1–2 minutes (watch carefully to avoid burning).
- Remove from heat, sprinkle generously with chopped green onions, and serve immediately while the cheese is gooey.
Oven-Baked Method (For extra bubbling and browning)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) with an oven-safe skillet or baking dish inside.
- Mix the corn, mayonnaise, butter, sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Transfer to the hot skillet/dish, top with mozzarella.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted, then broil for 1–2 minutes for golden spots.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Nutritional Benefits
While undeniably indulgent, Korean Corn Cheese offers some nutritional value:
- Corn provides dietary fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants (like lutein for eye health), and complex carbohydrates for energy.
- Cheese contributes high-quality protein, calcium for bone health, and B vitamins.
- Green onions add vitamin K, vitamin C, and mild anti-inflammatory compounds. However, the dish is high in calories and fat due to mayonnaise and cheese, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per serving, based on 4 servings)
Approximate values (will vary by exact ingredients):
- Calories: 350–420
- Total Fat: 25–30g (mostly from cheese and mayo)
- Saturated Fat: 12–15g
- Carbohydrates: 30–35g
- Fiber: 3–4g
- Sugars: 10–12g (natural from corn + added)
- Protein: 14–18g
- Notable micronutrients: Calcium ~30% DV, Vitamin C ~15% DV
For Cheese Lovers
If you love that satisfying cheese pull and rich, creamy texture, this dish is pure bliss. The combination of melted mozzarella with sweet corn creates a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami that cheese enthusiasts crave. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients transformed into something decadent.
Conclusion
Korean Corn Cheese is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together sweetness, creaminess, and that irresistible cheese stretch in every bite. Whether you make it on the stovetop for quick weeknight indulgence or bake it for a party, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Perfect for sharing, it captures the fun, fusion spirit of modern Korean cuisine while remaining approachable for any home cook.
Final Note for Lovers of This Dish
Cheese and corn lovers alike will find this addictive—once you try the hot, gooey skillet version, it’s hard to stop at one serving. Enjoy it hot, share it with friends, and savor the simple joy of melted perfection!