The moment I take that first scoop of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where warmth and smiles always seemed to fill the air. It’s a dish that bursts with flavor and comfort, combining the sweetness of corn with a creamy texture that just begs for seconds.
A simple weeknight dinner transformed into a family favorite, this casserole has become my go-to whenever I want to impress, without slaving away in the kitchen for hours. The best part? This incredible recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the delightful harmony of butter, cheddar, and corny goodness. Perfect for potlucks or cozy nights in, it’s that delightful dish that bridges generations and brings everyone together.
So, if you’re searching for a way to elevate your homemade meals beyond the usual fast food rut, join me as I guide you through making this delightful paean to Southern cooking. Ready your taste buds—let’s dive into making Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole!
Why will you love Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Comfort in Every Bite: This dish offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will remind you of home-cooked meals.
Quick and Easy: With just six ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy texture and cheesy topping will have everyone asking for seconds, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side, pairing beautifully with grilled meats or holiday feasts.
Time-Saving Option: You can even prepare it in a Crock Pot for an easy, hands-off approach—check out my guide on how to make casseroles in a Crock Pot for more tips!
Essential Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Creamed corn – Adds a rich, sweet base to the casserole, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Whole kernel sweet corn – Provides delightful pops of texture and sweetness to every bite.
- Jiffy corn muffin mix – This key ingredient gives the casserole its delightful, fluffy consistency.
- Sour cream – Enhances creaminess and brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Butter – Melted butter enriches the flavors and adds a comforting richness to the casserole.
- Cheddar cheese – Topping with shredded cheddar brings a savory finish that’s simply irresistible.
This simple yet satisfying combination makes Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a timeless favorite that lifts spirits and brings the family together!
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect bake and ensuring your casserole is fluffy and golden.
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Mix all ingredients except for the cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Stir well until combined; the creamed corn and sour cream should create a creamy base. Don’t forget to drain the whole kernel corn!
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Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet. The right baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving; spread it evenly for consistent texture.
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Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. You’ll want to see the edges slightly puff up and the top begin to take on a light golden hue.
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Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.
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Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole mixture (excluding the cheddar cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and pour them into a greased baking dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes (to prevent uneven cooking), and bake as directed. Add the shredded cheddar during the last 10-15 minutes of baking for that irresistible cheesy topping—your family will be amazed at how fresh and delicious it still tastes!
Tips for the Best Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined to avoid clumps. This helps maintain a uniform texture throughout the casserole.
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Grease Generously: Greasing your baking dish prevents sticking. A well-greased dish allows for easy serving and cleanup, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
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Check Doneness: Baking times can vary; look for a golden top and slight puffing. Insert a toothpick to check if it’s fully cooked; it should come out clean.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps it set properly. This makes serving easier and enhances the flavors.
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Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique kick.
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Stay Mindful of Overmixing: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense casserole. Stir just until combined for a light, fluffy result.
How to Store and Freeze Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, can be left out for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.
Fridge: Store leftover Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To restore its creamy texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, adding a splash of milk if needed to moisten.
What to Serve with Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
To elevate your meal experience and celebrate the cozy flavors of this beloved dish, let’s explore the perfect pairings.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken offers a satisfying contrast to the creamy texture of the casserole, enhancing your family’s dining delight.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a splash of color and fresh, earthy flavors, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully.
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Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of honey-glazed ham complements the sweet corn flavors, creating a harmonious, comforting meal that everyone loves.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with zesty dressing brings a refreshing contrast, adding a crisp bite to every plateful.
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Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans pair wonderfully, offering a comforting, old-fashioned vibe that takes your table back in time.
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Cornbread Muffins: Serve alongside cornbread muffins for the ultimate corn experience. Their light, fluffy texture makes for a delightful duo.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a bright, vibrant balance to the hearty casserole, making each bite feel lighter and more invigorating.
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Iced Tea: A classic Southern drink choice, sweet iced tea perfectly complements the flavors, refreshing the palate after every bite.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with pumpkin pie, which ties in beautifully with the casserole’s comforting, homey vibes.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Variations
Feel free to customize your casserole with these delightful twists and swaps for a unique flavor experience!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute Jiffy corn muffin mix with a gluten-free blend to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Spin: Mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper for a kick that’ll warm your heart.
- Herbed Version: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish wonderfully.
- Creamy Twist: Swap sour cream for cream cheese, giving your casserole a richer, cheesier goodness that everyone will crave.
- Cheese Medley: Rather than cheddar, explore options like pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for a fun cheesy surprise.
- Sweet Addition: Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen corn for added sweetness and a pop of texture in every bite.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or spinach to enhance the nutrition while keeping things colorful and vibrant.
- Sweet Heat: Drizzle with a honey sriracha sauce just before serving for a sweet and spicy flavor explosion that’s simply unforgettable.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best corn for the recipe?
Absolutely! For the sweetest flavor in Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, choose fresh corn that’s firm and plump. If you opt for canned or frozen corn, look for whole kernel varieties without any dark spots or dents.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To store leftover casserole, place it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps restore its lovely texture.
Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a heavy-duty freezer bag or a tightly sealed container, where it can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Consider covering it with aluminum foil while reheating to keep it moist.
What if my casserole doesn’t rise properly?
If you find your casserole hasn’t puffed up as expected, it might be due to under-mixing, which can create dense pockets. Make sure to mix until just combined, as overmixing can lead to a heavy texture. Also, ensure the oven is fully preheated and baking at the right temperature; an incorrect setting can affect the rise.
Is there a way to adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the Jiffy corn muffin mix with a gluten-free cornmeal mix. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If anyone has a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free cheese substitutes or omit the cheese altogether.
Can pets eat corn casserole?
It’s best to keep Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole away from pets. While plain corn is generally safe for dogs, ingredients like sour cream and cheese can upset their stomachs. Additionally, the casserole contains butter and other seasonings that aren’t suitable for pets.
Heavenly Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole That Steals the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients except for the cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Stir well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 casserole dish. Spread it evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until the edges puff up and the top is light golden.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.