Korean corn cheese is a popular appetizer or side dish, made with corn, melty cheese, and a sweetened mayo base. While it originated with canned corn, it can absolutely be made with fresh sweet corn, making it a great summer BBQ dish as well! I make mine in the air fryer so it’s quick, easy, and delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and irresistible. Every bite is packed with sweet corn and gooey melted cheese!
- Perfect for the air fryer. The cheese becomes bubbly and golden while the corn stays tender and juicy
- Quick and easy to make. This simple recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients
- Better than takeout. Enjoy a Korean restaurant favorite from the comfort of your own kitchen
- Perfect as an appetizer or side dish. It fits right in at weeknight dinners, parties, or Korean-inspired meals
- Easy to customize. Add green onions, a drizzle of spicy mayo, extra mozzarella, or a sprinkle of gochugaru for even more flavor!
- A great use for canned or frozen corn. Fresh corn isn’t required, making it easy to prepare year-round
- Perfect for sharing. Serve it straight from the baking dish with spoons, tortilla chips, or toasted bread for dipping
- A guaranteed comfort food favorite. The combination of sweet corn and melty cheese is rich, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser!
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Ingredients List
- 2 cups sweet corn (3-4 ears fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 Tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper to taste (I use ¼ tsp of each)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- If your corn is very sweet, you can adjust the amount of sugar used
- While mozzarella is traditional, a similar soft, melty cheese like Fontina can be substituted
- Instead of Kewpie mayo, you can use regular mayo as well (the Japanese version is just creamier). Feel free to add more to your preferences if you want a creamier dish
- The green onion is technically optional. You could also garnish with parsley, and add some chopped onion or onion powder into the dish if desired
- For some added heat, add some gochugaru chili flakes, or a drizzle of gochujang sauce
Equipment Notes
You’ll need an oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer basket (or rack) to make this recipe. I have a Dual Zone air fryer with two compartments, so I split it into two smaller oval casserole dishes, or you can also use four 7-ounce ramekins.
If you have a single basket unit, you can just use a single regular round or square casserole, cake pan, or silicone baking dish that fits. If it’s oven-safe, it’s air fryer safe!
Step By Step Instructions
- To cook your sweet corn (if using fresh), remove all husks and silk, then air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until golden. Use a sharp knife to remove the kernels from the cob (hold the top with a towel or tongs since it will be hot). Skip this step if you use canned or frozen corn
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, melted butter, mayonnaise, sugar, white parts of the green onion, salt and pepper, and ¾ cup of the shredded cheese
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer’s basket (or split it evenly into two smaller dishes if you have a dual zone unit), then add it to your air fryer
- Air fry at 400°F for 7 minutes. Then, add the remaining ¼ cup of the shredded cheese to the top (press it slightly so it adheres) and cook an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned to your liking, and the dish has a bubbly top
- Top with the sliced green parts of the onion, and serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted bread for dipping (optional). Enjoy!
What to Eat Korean Corn Cheese With
Air fryer Korean corn cheese is creamy, cheesy, sweet, and savory, making it a fantastic side dish or appetizer alongside Korean barbecue, crispy fried foods, and fresh vegetables. Here are some of my favorites!
Korean-Inspired Mains
- Korean BBQ beef (bulgogi): Sweet and savory beef is a classic pairing
- Spicy pork (dwaeji bulgogi): The creamy corn cheese helps balance the heat
- Korean fried chicken: Crispy chicken and cheesy corn are a match made in heaven
- Galbi (Korean short ribs): Rich, smoky beef pairs beautifully with the sweet corn. Try my Air Fryer Korean Beef Short Ribs!
- Grilled chicken thighs: Especially with a soy-garlic or gochujang marinade
Rice & Noodles
- Steamed white rice: A simple side that lets the bold flavors shine
- Kimchi fried rice: Tangy, spicy rice is a delicious contrast. Try Air Fryer Frozen Bibigo Fried Rice for a quick option!
- Japchae: Sweet potato noodles with vegetables make a complete meal
- Ramen: Add a scoop of corn cheese alongside your favorite bowl!
- Garlic butter noodles: Rich, comforting, and family-friendly
Korean Side Dishes (Banchan)
- Kimchi: The tangy spice balances the creamy cheese
- Pickled cucumbers: Cool and refreshing
- Seasoned spinach (sigeumchi namul): A light vegetable side
- Bean sprout salad (kongnamul muchim): Crisp and refreshing!
- Korean potato salad: Another creamy favorite that pairs surprisingly well
Appetizers
- Korean dumplings (mandu): Pan-fried or steamed, they’re perfect for dipping
- Scallion pancakes (pajeon): Crispy and savory. I like Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Scallion Pancakes!
- Spring rolls: A crunchy contrast to the creamy corn. Air Fryer Frozen Spring Rolls are a great choice!
- Edamame: Light and easy to snack on. Try my easy Air Fryer Frozen Edamame!
- Chicken wings: Especially Korean-style sticky or spicy wings!
Drink Pairings
- Korean lager: Crisp and refreshing with rich, cheesy dishes
- Sparkling lemonade: Bright citrus cuts through the richness
- Iced green tea: Clean, refreshing, and palate-cleansing
- Lemon-lime soda: A fun, family-friendly option!
- Sparkling water with lime: Light and refreshing!
Best Occasions
Korean corn cheese is perfect for Korean barbecue nights, family dinners, game days, potlucks, casual parties, or whenever you’re craving a quick comfort food side. It also makes a fun appetizer for sharing before the main meal!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Bake This In The Oven Instead?
Yes! Simply prepare the corn cheese as directed, transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish, and bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top, about 15-20 minutes. For a darker top, use the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes.
Can You Microwave Corn Cheese?
Absolutely. Combine the ingredients in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is hot. While it won’t develop the browned top you get in the air fryer, it’ll still be creamy and delicious.
What Cheese Is Used In Korean Corn Cheese?
Mozzarella is the most common choice because it melts beautifully and creates the signature gooey cheese pull. Some recipes also mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
Why Is Korean Corn Cheese Sweet?
The sweetness comes primarily from the naturally sweet corn, which is a hallmark of the dish. Recipes usually also include a small amount of sugar or sweetened mayonnaise to enhance that sweetness, creating the signature balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and cheesy flavors.
Tips For the Best Korean Corn Cheese
- Times are based on my Ninja Dual Zone air fryer and assume you’ve cooked the corn in it, which has preheated the air fryer. Add 1-2 minutes extra if not using fresh corn, and adjust cooking times in small increments as needed based on your specific air fryer and browning preferences
- Watch the cheese carefully at the end, as it can overbrown quickly. Add extra time in 1-minute increments if needed
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days
- Stir before reheating if the cheese sauce has thickened or separated slightly
- Store garnishes separately, such as sliced green onions or parsley, and add them after reheating
- Freezing isn’t recommended, as the creamy mayo and melted cheese can become grainy once thawed
Reheating Tips
- Air fryer (best method): Reheat in an air fryer-safe dish at 325°F for 4-6 minutes, stirring halfway through if desired
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until hot and bubbly
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until evenly warmed
- Top with a little extra mozzarella before reheating for an extra cheesy, freshly made taste!
Make Ahead
If you’re making Korean corn cheese ahead of time, assemble the mixture in your baking dish and refrigerate it before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry it until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then garnish with fresh green onions for the best flavor and presentation!
Final Thoughts
Korean corn cheese is a fun, creamy, delicious recipe served as an appetizer or side dish option, made easy in your air fryer! It’s a super versatile recipe that can be made with fresh, canned, or frozen corn (but I love fresh sweet summer in-season corn especially)!
The air fryer does a great job of delivering a golden brown top and perfectly melty cheese, but this versatile dish can be made in the oven or even the microwave depending on what you have available!
Serve with chips, bread, or straight from the spoon, or alongside your favorite Korean-inspired dishes. I enjoy corn cheese with ramen in particular, or as a side dish when I’m serving Korean short ribs!
Katie’s tip
For more great dishes featuring this sweet summer staple vegetable, check out all of my Air Fryer Corn Recipes for more inspiration!
Air Fryer Korean Corn Cheese
Equipment
- Spatula (or spoon; for mixing)
- Casserole dish (or similar oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer)
- Nonstick spray
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet corn (3-4 ears fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 Tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ¼ cup Kewpie mayonnaise
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
- Salt and black pepper to taste (I use ¼ tsp of each)
Instructions
- To cook your sweet corn (if using fresh), remove all husks and silk, then air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until golden. Use a sharp knife to remove the kernels from the cob (hold the top with a towel or tongs since it will be hot). Skip this step if you use canned or frozen corn2 cups sweet corn
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, melted butter, mayonnaise, sugar, white parts of the green onion, salt and pepper, and ¾ cup of the shredded cheese1 Tbsp butter, 1 tsp granulated sugar, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup Kewpie mayonnaise, 1 green onion, thinly sliced, Salt and black pepper to taste
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer’s basket (or split it evenly into two smaller dishes if you have a dual zone unit), then add it to your air fryer
- Air fry at 400°F for 7 minutes. Then, add the remaining ¼ cup of the shredded cheese to the top (press it slightly so it adheres) and cook an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned to your liking1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Top with the sliced green parts of the onion, and serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted bread for dipping (optional). Enjoy!1 green onion, thinly sliced
Notes
- If your corn is very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar used (or to your preferences)
- Instead of Kewpie mayo, you can use regular mayo as well (the Japanese version is just creamier). Feel free to add more to your preferences if you want a creamier dish
- For some added heat, add some gochugaru chili flakes, or a drizzle of gochujang sauce
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces, dippers, or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
