Corn Custard with Chorizo and Mushrooms

A rich and savory custard combining sweet corn, spicy chorizo, and earthy mushrooms, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese. This hearty casserole features a creamy corn base studded with jalapeños and scallions for added flavor.

8 servings
1 hr 42 min

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ pound Spanish chorizo
  • ¾ pound cremini mushrooms
  • 1 tablespoon jalapeño chile
  • 20 ounces frozen corn kernels
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • cup yellow cornmeal
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 6 whole scallions
  • ½ pound Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 piece baking dish

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly butter baking dish.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté chorizo, stirring occasionally, until browned, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain briefly, then transfer chorizo to baking dish. Reserve fat in skillet.

    8 min

  3. 3.

    Add remaining tablespoon oil to fat in skillet and heat over moderately high heat, then sauté mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until liquid mushrooms give off is evaporated and mushrooms are browned, about 8 minutes. Add chile and sauté, stirring, until softened, about 1 minute. Transfer to baking dish with chorizo.

    9 min

  4. 4.

    Purée 2 cups corn with cream cheese, cornmeal, and sugar in a food processor until as smooth as possible (mixture will still be grainy).

    5 min

  5. 5.

    Whisk together eggs, milk, and salt in a large bowl until combined well. Whisk in corn purée, scallions, 1 1/2 cups cheese, and remaining 2 cups corn until combined. Pour mixture into baking dish and sprinkle evenly with remaining cup cheese.

    10 min

  6. 6.

    Bake until puffed, set, and golden, 50 minutes to 1 hour. Cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

    60 min