Korean Corn Cheese – A Sweet, Savory & Cheesy BBQ Side Dish

Korean Corn Cheese (콘치즈) is one of the most beloved and iconic side dishes in Korean cuisine—especially at Korean BBQ restaurants. It’s creamy, gooey, slightly sweet, and bubbling with melted cheese, served piping hot in a sizzling skillet. Made with canned or fresh sweet corn, mayonnaise, sugar, and mozzarella cheese, this dish is equal parts snack, side, and comfort food.

Whether you’re throwing a Korean BBQ at home, looking for a fun cheesy appetizer, or just craving something cozy, this Korean Corn Cheese recipe is fast, indulgent, and completely addictive.

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What Is Korean Corn Cheese?

Korean Corn Cheese is a popular anju (안주)—a type of dish commonly served with drinks or alongside grilled meats in Korea. It’s usually brought to the table in a cast iron skillet or small aluminum pan, still bubbling from the oven or stove. The sweet, creamy corn is topped with golden melted cheese and sometimes sprinkled with green onions or parsley.

This dish combines:

• Corn (sweet and juicy)

• Mayonnaise (creamy and rich)

• Sugar (just a touch for balance)

• Mozzarella (stringy and satisfying)

• Optional extras like green onions, onions, or bell peppers

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Ingredient Breakdown: What You Need to Make Korean Corn Cheese

This dish uses just a few basic pantry and fridge staples. Here’s what each ingredient brings to the dish:

Corn

Traditionally made with canned sweet corn for ease and consistent sweetness. You can also use frozen (thawed) or fresh corn cut off the cob.

Mayonnaise

Korean recipes typically use Kewpie mayo, which is richer and more umami-forward than American mayo. Regular mayo works too, just avoid low-fat or flavored versions.

Sugar

Just a small amount (about 1 tsp) to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. You can omit or reduce it if using sweet corn.

Mozzarella Cheese

Low-moisture, shredded mozzarella is ideal for that signature melty, stretchy top. You can mix with cheddar for extra flavor.

Butter

Used for sautéing the corn and adding richness.

Green Onions (Optional)

For a fresh bite and slight sharpness to balance the creaminess.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Diced onions

• Diced bell peppers

• Jalapeños (for a spicy twist)

• Parsley or chili flakes on top

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How to Make Korean Corn Cheese (Step-by-Step)

This dish comes together quickly—just 15 minutes from start to finish. You can make it on the stovetop, under the broiler, or in the oven.

1. Prep the Ingredients

Drain one 15 oz can of sweet corn or measure out 1½ cups fresh/frozen corn. Chop green onions or optional add-ins.

2. Sauté the Corn

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add corn and cook for 3–4 minutes until warmed and slightly golden.

3. Mix in Mayo and Sugar

Stir in:

• 2½ tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• A pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)

Cook for another 1–2 minutes until creamy and bubbly.

4. Add Cheese

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the corn mixture.

5. Melt and Broil (Optional)

• Option 1: Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt on residual heat (for stovetop).

• Option 2: Place the skillet under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

• Option 3: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 5–6 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve immediately with spoons, chopsticks, or even chips or crackers for scooping.

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Tips, Variations & Flavor Boosts

Pro Tips

• Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet for the best presentation and even melting.

• Don’t skip the mayo—it creates that signature creamy texture.

• Adjust sweetness depending on the corn variety (fresh corn may need a bit more sugar).

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Korean Corn Cheese: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or red pepper flakes.

• Cheddar Mix: Combine mozzarella with sharp cheddar for extra flavor.

• Loaded Corn Cheese: Add chopped bacon, diced jalapeños, or cooked onions.

• Kimchi Corn Cheese: Mix in chopped kimchi for a tangy, spicy contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Korean BBQ side dish

• As a snack or appetizer for parties

• On a toasted baguette or crackers as a cheesy corn bruschetta

• With grilled meats or tofu for a full Korean meal

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Nutrition & Health Notes

Korean Corn Cheese is a fun, indulgent comfort food that can be lightened or customized as needed.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving – 4 servings):

• Calories: 260

• Protein: 10g

• Fat: 18g

• Carbs: 15g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 5g

Health Tips:

• Use low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

• Use reduced-fat cheese to reduce calories.

• For a lower-carb version, use less sugar and reduce corn quantity, or mix in riced cauliflower.

• Add veggies (onion, bell pepper, jalapeño) to boost fiber and micronutrients.

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FAQs About Korean Corn Cheese

1. Can I make Korean corn cheese ahead of time?

Yes. You can sauté the corn and mix in mayo ahead of time. Just add cheese and bake or broil before serving.

2. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?

Absolutely. Cut kernels off 2–3 ears of cooked corn and follow the recipe as written. Sweet summer corn works especially well.

3. Is there a way to make this healthier?

Yes. Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo, reduce the cheese, and skip the sugar. You can also mix in chopped spinach or cauliflower rice.

4. What kind of cheese is best?

Mozzarella is the classic for its stretch and melt, but you can mix in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for extra flavor.

5. Can I make it spicy?

Yes. Add gochujang, sriracha, jalapeños, or Korean chili flakes to the corn mixture for a spicy version.

6. Is this dish served hot or cold?

It’s traditionally served hot, right from the skillet or oven while the cheese is bubbling and gooey.

7. What do you eat Korean corn cheese with?

It’s often served as a side dish at Korean BBQ, but it’s also great with grilled meats, as a snack with chips, or as a cheesy veggie side for any meal.

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