Korean Corn Cheese Recipe: If you’ve ever been to a Korean BBQ restaurant, chances are you’ve seen—or devoured—Korean Corn Cheese. This hot, bubbly, cheesy dish is a crowd favorite, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make it at home, with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re throwing a K-drama binge night or just want to spice up dinner, this recipe will become your new favorite!
What is Korean Corn Cheese?
Korean Corn Cheese, known as 콘치즈 (kon-chijeu) in Korean, is a beloved Korean side dish made with sweet corn, mayonnaise, sugar, and lots of melted cheese. It’s creamy, savory, slightly sweet, and utterly addictive. The dish is often served in sizzling hot skillets at Korean BBQ joints and is perfect for scooping up with a spoon or pairing with grilled meats.
Imagine the crunch of sweet corn kernels bathing in creamy mayo, all blanketed under a gooey layer of melted mozzarella cheese. That’s what Korean Corn Cheese is all about. It walks the line between snack and comfort food, and once you try it, you’ll keep craving it. Whether you’re into Korean cuisine or not, this one’s a universal crowd-pleaser.
Why is Korean Corn Cheese So Popular?
Simple: it hits every taste note—sweet, salty, creamy, and cheesy. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s vegetarian-friendly, super customizable, and the perfect “starter” Korean dish for people unfamiliar with Korean cuisine.
Korean Corn Cheese is also a frequent flyer on TikTok and YouTube cooking channels, and for good reason. It’s photogenic (hello, cheese pulls), beginner-friendly, and can be served at nearly any event. Plus, let’s be honest, anything with melted cheese automatically wins hearts. Korean food culture loves incorporating Western ingredients with a Korean twist, and this dish is the perfect example of culinary fusion done right.
When and Where to Serve Korean Corn Cheese
You don’t need a fancy occasion to enjoy this. Korean Corn Cheese works perfectly:
- As a side dish during Korean BBQ
- As a party appetizer
- As a comfort food snack
- During movie nights or K-drama binges
- As a potluck contribution
Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s hot and bubbling, or scoop it onto small plates. It’s a guaranteed crowd favorite that’ll disappear fast.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this cheesy masterpiece doesn’t require a trip to a Korean grocery store. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples:
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained (or 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen corn)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2-3 tbsp mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo preferred for a richer taste)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, but recommended)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
- Optional: ¼ tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) for heat
These ingredients come together in perfect harmony to deliver that sweet-savory-melty combination we all love.
Canned Sweet Corn or Fresh Corn?
Both work well, but the choice depends on your mood and season. Canned corn is quick and convenient, while fresh corn (especially grilled) gives it a deeper, roasted flavor. Frozen corn is another great option—just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Choosing the Right Cheese
Mozzarella is the go-to because it melts beautifully and gives you those Instagram-worthy cheese pulls. However, you can mix it up with:
- Monterey Jack (for extra creaminess)
- Cheddar (for a sharper bite)
- A sprinkle of parmesan on top (for that umami kick)
But don’t go too heavy on strong cheeses—they can overpower the sweetness of the corn.
Other Flavor Boosters
Want to jazz it up? Here are some tasty add-ins:
- Chopped jalapeños or green chili – for heat
- Crumbled bacon – for a smoky, meaty flavor
- Diced onions – for depth
- Garlic powder or minced garlic – because garlic makes everything better
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Keep it simple—you don’t need fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan (for that sizzling effect)
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Grater (if grating cheese fresh)
- Oven broiler or toaster oven
If you don’t have a broiler, a hot oven works too, or just let the cheese melt on the stove and cover the pan for a few minutes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Korean Corn Cheese
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Drain the canned corn and set it aside. If using fresh corn, remove the kernels from the cob and give them a quick rinse. Chop green onions, mince garlic (if using), and measure out your mayo, sugar, and cheese. The key to a smooth cooking process is having everything ready to go—mise en place style!
Also, preheat your oven broiler or toaster oven on high. This step is crucial for that golden cheese crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Corn and Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it starts to sizzle, toss in the corn. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the corn caramelize slightly and enhances the flavor.
If you’re adding garlic or onions, toss them in here too. Don’t rush this part—the toasty flavor is what brings the dish to life. You want those little golden bits!
Step 3: Add Mayo, Sugar, and Seasonings
Once the corn is lightly golden and fragrant, turn the heat to low. Stir in the mayo, sugar, salt, and pepper. You’ll notice the mixture becoming creamy and rich—this is where the magic starts. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so everything blends smoothly.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Want more sweetness? Add a pinch more sugar. Want it creamier? Another tablespoon of mayo won’t hurt.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese on Top
Turn off the heat and evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the creamy corn mixture. If using other cheeses, mix them in or layer on top.
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated broiler or oven. Let it sit under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch it closely—cheese goes from golden to burnt fast!
No broiler? Cover the pan with a lid and let the cheese melt over low heat on the stovetop.
Step 5: Broil to Golden Perfection
If you used the broiler, remove the skillet when the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly browned in spots. That bubbling cheese is your signal that it’s ready.
Sprinkle some chopped green onions or gochugaru on top for extra flair. Serve it immediately—this dish waits for no one.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Korean Corn Cheese is hot and bubbly, it’s time to dig in—but not before thinking about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment. This dish is at its absolute best straight from the skillet. That sizzling sound, the golden top, and the stretchy cheese make it a total showstopper.
Here are a few serving ideas:
- Korean BBQ Side Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats like bulgogi, galbi, or spicy pork belly. The creamy, cheesy sweetness cuts through the spice and smoke of the meat perfectly.
- Dip with Chips or Toast: Scoop it up with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or toasted baguette slices. Think of it like a Korean-style queso dip.
- On Top of Rice: For a heartier option, serve it over steamed rice. The cheese melts into the rice for a super comforting bowl of goodness.
- Banchan Style: In a Korean meal, serve it as one of many small side dishes (banchan). It’ll be the first dish to disappear.
Want to get extra creative? You can even use leftovers (if there are any!) as a topping for baked potatoes, loaded fries, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. The options are endless!
Variations of Korean Corn Cheese
One of the best things about this recipe? It’s super flexible. Whether you want to spice things up, make it meatier, or keep it vegan, there’s a variation for everyone.
Spicy Korean Corn Cheese
Love a little heat? Spice it up! Here’s how:
- Add ½ tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) when mixing in mayo
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or Korean green chili peppers
- Drizzle with Sriracha or gochujang on top before serving
This variation adds a fiery kick that balances the creaminess and sweetness perfectly.
Bacon & Corn Cheese
For the meat lovers, bacon is a game-changer:
- Fry 2-3 slices of bacon, then crumble and mix into the corn before adding cheese
- Use bacon fat instead of butter for extra smoky flavor
- Add a little smoked paprika for an even bolder taste
It turns the dish into more of a savory, umami bomb—and it’s absolutely irresistible.
Vegan Korean Corn Cheese
Yes, you can go vegan and still enjoy this delight:
- Use vegan mayo and vegan cheese (like Daiya or Violife)
- Substitute olive oil or vegan butter for regular butter
- Add a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost
This version might not give you the same cheese pull, but the flavor is still top-tier.
Pro Tips for the Best Korean Corn Cheese
Want your corn cheese to taste like it came from a Korean restaurant? Follow these tips:
- Use Kewpie mayo if you can—it’s richer and slightly tangier than American mayo
- Don’t skimp on the cheese—mozzarella is key for that stretchy, melty texture
- Broil, don’t bake—broiling gives that golden, bubbly finish
- Taste before you broil—adjust salt, sugar, or mayo while the dish is still hot on the stove
- Use cast iron or oven-safe pan—this keeps the dish hot longer and adds that restaurant-style presentation
These little tricks can take your corn cheese from good to unforgettable.
What to Serve with Korean Corn Cheese
While this dish is a star on its own, it shines even brighter when paired with other Korean faves:
- Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom or Soy Garlic)
- Grilled meats like bulgogi or galbi
- Kimchi pancakes or seafood pancakes
- Japchae (glass noodles)
- Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)
- Steamed rice and banchan (side dishes)
It’s also a perfect complement to soju or beer. Think of it like a Korean bar snack—sweet, cheesy, and perfect for pairing with drinks.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Got leftovers? Here’s how to save and revive them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and heat until cheese is bubbly again—about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: You can microwave it in 30-second bursts, but it may get a bit rubbery. Add a few drops of water and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
It’s best eaten fresh, but reheated corn cheese is still better than no corn cheese at all.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like this has its pitfalls. Watch out for these common slip-ups:
- Too much mayo: It can make the dish greasy and overwhelming.
- Not draining the corn: Excess liquid = soggy corn cheese. Drain it well!
- Using low-quality cheese: Pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents won’t melt as well.
- Burning the top: The broiler works fast—stay close and keep an eye on it.
- Skipping the seasoning: A little salt, sugar, and pepper bring the whole dish together.
Avoid these, and you’ll be golden (literally).
Is Korean Corn Cheese Healthy?
Well… let’s just say it’s not exactly diet food. But that’s okay—it’s a treat!
Let’s break it down:
- Calories: A serving can range from 250–400 calories depending on how much cheese and mayo you use.
- Protein: Cheese gives it a decent protein boost.
- Vitamins: Corn provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
- Fats: Mayonnaise and cheese make it high in fat, particularly saturated fat.
If you’re watching your intake, you can lighten it up by using:
- Low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt instead of mayo
- Less cheese or just a sprinkle on top
- More veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms mixed in
It’s all about balance. Enjoy it in moderation and savor every bite.
FAQs about Korean Corn Cheese Recipe
1. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a deliciously crisp texture and natural sweetness. Just make sure to cook it a little longer when sautéing.
2. What kind of mayo is best for Korean Corn Cheese?
Kewpie mayo is ideal because it’s creamier and tangier. But regular mayonnaise works fine too—just avoid low-fat versions for better flavor.
3. How do I make it spicy?
Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), chopped jalapeños, or a drizzle of Sriracha or gochujang. You can also sprinkle chili oil on top for extra heat.
4. Is Korean Corn Cheese gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your mayo and cheese don’t contain additives with gluten. Always check labels to be sure.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the corn mixture in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, top with cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
Conclusion
Korean Corn Cheese is one of those dishes that brings pure joy with every spoonful. It’s sweet, creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a Korean BBQ night or just want something cheesy and comforting, this recipe fits the bill. The best part? You can make it your own. Add spice, throw in bacon, or keep it plant-based—the possibilities are endless.
So, grab that skillet, pop open a can of corn, and let the magic happen. You’re only 15 minutes away from your new favorite snack.
