There’s a moment when you take that first bite of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, and it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. The creamy, cheesy goodness just melts in your mouth, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!). I discovered this delightful recipe one evening when I wanted to bring a bit of Southern charm to my dinner table.
The surprise? It’s astonishingly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or just craving comfort food after a hectic week, this corn casserole checks all the boxes. This dish is a crowd-pleaser—its rich sweetness and cheesy top create a harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for your secret. So, let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and elevate your next meal with a touch of nostalgia!
Why you’ll love Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Comforting warmth: This dish wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavors, perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
Effortless preparation: With just six simple ingredients, you can whip this casserole together in no time, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Crowd favorite: Its sweet, cheesy goodness makes it a hit at potlucks and holiday dinners, ensuring your table is always filled with smiles.
Versatile and adaptable: Whether served as a side dish or a main event, it pairs beautifully with meats and salads alike.
Leftovers delight: If there are any leftovers, they taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Embrace the joy of home cooking and make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole the star of your next meal!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Creamed corn – This ingredient adds a rich, creamy base that elevates the flavor.
• Whole kernel sweet corn – Be sure to drain it first for the perfect texture!
• Jiffy corn muffin mix – This mix makes it easy to achieve that delightful cornbread taste.
• Sour cream – It contributes a tangy richness that perfectly balances the sweetness.
• Butter – Melted, this adds a rich, buttery flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Cheddar cheese – Shredded and added on top, this creates a deliciously melty finish.
Get ready to savor the comforting and delightful taste of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your table!
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F, creating a warm environment perfect for baking this delicious casserole. This step helps ensure even cooking and a lovely golden top.
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Combine all your ingredients except for the cheddar cheese in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly to blend the creamed corn, whole kernel corn, Jiffy mix, sour cream, and melted butter into a smooth batter.
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Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Spread it evenly, allowing for a wonderful, baked crust on all sides.
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Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Keep an eye out for a firm texture and a slight golden color forming as it cooks.
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Top with shredded cheddar cheese after the initial bake. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melting and bubbly, creating a beautiful crust on top.
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Let stand for 5 minutes prior to serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set up nicely for serving, making it easier to cut into portions.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped herbs for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful casserole to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of flavor and heat. A little spice can transform this dish into a bold statement!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley to brighten up the flavors, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste. The herbs will elevate the casserole and add a delightful aroma.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese or a combination of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to a richer, creamier experience.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for some added nutrition and texture. These veggies not only add color but also enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives for a lighter version, making this comfort dish suitable for lactose-intolerant friends without sacrificing taste.
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Corn Variations: Try using different types of corn, such as poblano corn or sweet white corn, for a unique twist. Each variety offers its own distinct sweetness and texture, bringing new life to the casserole.
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Sweet Surprise: Add a splash of maple syrup or a handful of caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness to contrast the savory notes. This unexpected pairing will leave your guests pleasantly surprised!
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Texture Twist: Top the casserole with crushed crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs before the final bake for a crunchy topping that adds an irresistible texture contrast. This delightful crunch elevates every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole make-ahead tips are a game changer for busy weeknights! You can combine all the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance—just mix everything except for the cheddar cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and follow the usual baking instructions. For optimal quality, be sure to cover the dish if refrigerating it overnight, as this prevents drying. You’ll end up with a dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients when possible for the best flavor. High-quality cheddar cheese enhances the overall taste of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes, especially during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before cutting into portions. This helps it maintain its shape and texture.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to add spices or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist! Just remember not to overwhelm the sweet flavor of the corn.
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Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy later.
Storage Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Room Temperature: Store any leftovers at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after serving to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Keep Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through, preserving that delightful cheesy goodness.
What to Serve with Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Create a meal that both comforts and excites with delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
- Grilled Chicken: Tender and smoky, grilled chicken adds a savory contrast to the creamy cornbread texture, making each forkful more satisfying.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the casserole’s richness, offering a vibrant pop of color and flavor on the plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Light and fresh, steamed broccoli provides a crisp texture that balances the creamy dish, making for a wonderfully nutritious combination.
- Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy elements of coleslaw brighten the meal, cutting through the richness of the casserole with each crunchy bite.
- Cornbread Muffins: Double the corn goodness with buttery cornbread muffins, which provide a delightful chewiness and are perfect for soaking up the casserole.
- Crisp Green Salad: A mix of fresh greens and your favorite vinaigrette adds lightness to the meal, enhancing the overall experience with its refreshing flavors.
- Sweet Tea: The classic Southern beverage, sweet tea brings a refreshing sweetness that pairs perfectly with the casserole’s flavors and warmth.
- Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie offers a comforting hint of spice and sweetness, ensuring a delightful end to your meal.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Chewy and sweet, these cookies provide a comforting finish that complements the casserole’s nostalgic charm.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Absolutely! You’ll want to use a combination of creamed corn and whole kernel sweet corn. Make sure you drain the whole kernel corn before adding it to the mix. This keeps the casserole from becoming too runny and allows for that perfect texture!
How should I store leftover Corn Casserole?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents moisture buildup that could spoil your casserole.
Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Of course! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer it to a tightly sealed freezer bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
What do I do if my Corn Casserole is too dry?
Very good question! If you notice your casserole is a bit dry, it could be from overbaking or using low-fat ingredients. I recommend checking the casserole around the 45-minute mark. If it looks firm and browned, it’s ready for the cheese topping. You can also stir in a bit of extra sour cream or a splash of milk to add moisture for next time.
Is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole suitable for people with allergies?
Definitely! However, it’s important to note that this recipe contains dairy and gluten due to the butter and Jiffy mix. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, feel free to substitute with gluten-free cornbread mix and dairy-free butter or cheese alternatives. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.
How do I know if my corn is ripe and fresh?
Excellent question! When selecting corn for your casserole, look for kernels that are plump and evenly colored. The husk should feel green and moist, not dried out or browning. If you notice any dark spots or if the silk is dry, it’s best to choose a different ear of corn. Fresh corn adds vivid sweetness to your casserole!
Savor Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Combine all your ingredients except for the cheddar cheese in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese after the initial bake.
- Let stand for 5 minutes prior to serving.