Inspired by Jack Stack’s Cheesy Corn Bake.

He took me to one of Kansas City, Missouri’s most beloved BBQ joints, Jack Stack Barbecue.

It’s been over 20 years, but the memory of this dish still makes me salivate.

Corn casserole

Simply Recipes / Myo Quinn

They’re as delicious as you’d expect a mixture of cheese, corn, and ham to be.

There are two ways you might go about melting the cream cheese.

First, cut the cream cheese into small cubes.

Ingredients to make corn casserole

Simply Recipes / Myo Quinn

Then, place them in a small saucepan with the milk.

Add the milk and use a whisk to combine.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Unbaked corn casserole

Simply Recipes / Myo Quinn

Cheese: I prefer pepper Jack for its sharpness, spice, and flavor.

Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or part-skim mozzarella are good alternatives.

Bacon: I usually cut cooked bacon into small strips, but store-bought bacon bits are a smart shortcut.

Corn casserole on a plate

Simply Recipes / Myo Quinn

If you want to stick closer to Jack Stack’s version, use cubed pieces of smoked ham.