01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Position oven rack just above center. Butter a standard pie plate for non-stick preparation.
02 -
Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4 minutes until golden at the edges. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
03 -
In a medium mixing bowl, combine sautéed onion and garlic, corn kernels, milk, 1 1/2 cups cheese, 1/2 cup panko, salt, white pepper, and 2 1/2 tablespoons chives if using. Mix thoroughly, then add eggs and stir until well combined.
04 -
Pour the corn mixture into the prepared pie plate and smooth the surface evenly.
05 -
Melt remaining 1/2 tablespoon butter and allow to cool slightly. In a bowl, combine with 1/4 cup panko, 1/2 cup cheese, 1/2 tablespoon chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Evenly distribute crumb mixture over pie filling.
06 -
Set pie plate on a rimmed baking sheet for stability. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until pie is puffed, set, and lightly browned.
07 -
Cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with paprika and extra chives as desired.