Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Melt the Base: In a medium pot set over low heat, gently melt the cubed, room-temperature cream cheese and the butter together.

Build the Sauce: Stir the milk into the melted dairy mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy.

Mix in the Corn: Stir in the salt, freshly ground black pepper, thawed sweet corn, and the diced pickled jalapeños (if using).

Transfer to Dish: Pour the warm corn mixture directly into an 8x8-inch square (or 2-quart) glass baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the corn mixture.

Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is deeply golden and the edges are beautifully bubbly. Serve warm!