When the sun sets on a busy week, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm casserole bubbling in the oven. I stumbled upon Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole during a family gathering, where the kitchen was filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of sweet corn and buttery cheese. This dish quickly became the star of the table, its creamy, fluffy texture winning over even the pickiest eaters.
What I love most about this casserole is its effortless charm and versatility. You can whip it up with just a handful of ingredients, making it a perfect solution for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. With the richness of sour cream and the sweetness of corn muffin mix, each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or dabbling in home cooking, this recipe is sure to charm your taste buds and impress your guests—just like it did for me! Let’s dive into how you can create this Southern classic in your own kitchen.
Why is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Finest: With just a few easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Creamy, Dreamy Texture: The combination of creamed corn and sour cream creates a rich and velvety consistency that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite Southern meatloaf or serve it alongside grilled chicken for a meal that’s sure to please every palate.
Quick Preparation: Just a short bake time means you can get this casserole on the table in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The delightful blend of sweetness from the corn muffin mix and the gooey cheese topping makes this dish a guaranteed winner at any gathering.
So why not give it a try? You won’t regret adding this gem to your recipe collection!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Ingredients
• Discover the delightful flavors that make this dish a family favorite!
For the Casserole
• Whole Kernel Corn – Provides texture and sweetness; use fresh or thawed frozen kernels for best results.
• Creamed Corn – Adds moisture and creaminess, making it essential for the casserole’s delightful consistency.
• Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix – This key ingredient enhances the sweetness and structure; feel free to substitute with a similar brand.
• Sour Cream – Brings an extra layer of creaminess; swap it out for cream cheese for a more decadent flavor.
• Butter – Ensures richness; melt it and let it cool slightly for easy incorporation.
• Shredded Cheese (e.g., Mozzarella) – A bubbly, golden topping; cheddar or pepper jack can be used for a twist on flavor.
Let the magic of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole brighten your kitchen and warm your heart!
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180ºC) and lightly grease a large casserole dish with butter or oil to ensure easy release after baking.
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Combine in a large bowl the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Gently mix with a rubber spatula until just combined to keep the corn’s delightful texture intact.
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Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly for even cooking. Top generously with shredded cheese, ensuring every inch is covered for a bubbly finish.
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Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a delicious, inviting crust.
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Cool your casserole for a few minutes before serving, allowing it to set and making it easier to scoop.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Variations
Looking to put a personal spin on your Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole? Here are some friendly ideas to enhance flavor and texture, transforming this dish into something uniquely yours.
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Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that adds a protein boost.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños for a fiery flavor that tantalizes the taste buds and livens up your casserole.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives or cilantro to introduce a bright, aromatic layer that elevates the dish.
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Cheese Lovers Unite: Try blending different cheeses, like cream cheese and feta, for an indulgent creamy experience with a sharp tang.
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Corn Variety: Combine whole kernel corn with sweet corn or even roasted corn for varied sweetness and texture in every delightful bite.
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Caramelized Onions: Sauté onions until golden brown and fold them into the mixture to add a delicious depth of flavor to your casserole.
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Vegetable Medley: Introduce steamed broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition while enhancing the dish’s color and flavor.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top before serving for an extraordinary sweet contrast to the savory goodness of the casserole.
Embrace the joy of cooking and watch your family’s faces light up with each delicious variation!
What to Serve with Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
If you’re planning a cozy dinner, let’s explore delightful pairings to elevate your meal!
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Southern Meatloaf: This classic dish pairs perfectly, balancing flavors and adding a hearty touch to your table. The rich, savory meatloaf complements the sweet creaminess of the casserole beautifully.
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Breaded Chicken Cutlets: Crunchy and golden, these chicken cutlets provide a satisfying contrast in texture. Their subtle seasoning ensures that the sweet flavors of the casserole remain the star of the show.
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No-Bean Chili: A warm bowl of chili adds a bit of spice, enhancing the comforting nature of the casserole. It contrasts pleasantly with the sweet and creamy elements, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Garlic Green Beans: For a fresh touch, serve alongside vibrant garlic green beans. Their crispness and mild flavor will beautifully accentuate the richness of the casserole.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a perfect neutral base that allows the casserole’s vibrant flavors to shine through.
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Cornbread Muffins: Keep the corn theme going with cornbread muffins. They’re slightly sweet and buttery—ideal for scooping up every creamy bite.
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Sweet Tea: A glass of iced sweet tea brings a southern charm and quenching refreshment, balancing out the rich flavors of the meal.
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Peach Cobbler: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm peach cobbler. This dessert’s fruity sweetness beautifully complements the corn casserole’s savory notes.
With these pairings, your dinner table will be a delightful gathering of textures and flavors, making every bite memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole make-ahead options are a lifesaver for busy weeknights or meal prep! You can prepare the entire casserole mix (without the cheese topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter, then cover tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake it, just pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish, top it with shredded cheese, and bake as directed, yielding a dish that’s just as creamy and delectable as if made fresh! This prepping ensures that you save time without sacrificing flavor, making dinner hassle-free and delightful.
Expert Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine ingredients to keep the corn’s integrity; overmixing may lead to a dense texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn enhances the dish’s sweet flavor. If using frozen corn, make sure it’s fully thawed for the best results.
• Cheese Choices: Opt for cheese that melts well; mozzarella is classic, but cheddar or pepper jack adds a nice twist.
• Baking Time Variations: Monitor baking time closely; thicker casserole dishes may require a few extra minutes to cook through.
• Cool Before Storing: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain the creamy texture of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole.
Storage Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, ensuring freshness and flavor remain intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a tightly wrapped portion or container for up to 6 months; this helps maintain the creamy texture of the casserole.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Cooling Before Storage: Always allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent excess moisture buildup in the container.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of corn is best for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Absolutely! Fresh whole kernel corn adds a delightful sweetness and texture to the casserole. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it completely beforehand; this ensures even cooking and the best flavor.
How should I store Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole leftovers?
For storage, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container; they can last in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps lock in the creamy texture and rich flavor of the casserole.
Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will be good for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?
If you find your casserole is dry, it may not have enough moisture from the ingredients or could be overbaked. To remedy this, make sure you’re measuring the creamed corn and sour cream accurately. And remember, keep an eye on the baking time; if the edges begin to brown too much, you may want to lower the temperature slightly or cover it with foil.
Are there any dietary considerations for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Very! If you’re accommodating lactose intolerant family members or guests, consider using lactose-free sour cream and cheese alternatives. If you have allergies to dairy or corn, this recipe is not suitable, but you can experiment with corn-free muffin mix or alternative ingredients to create a custom casserole dish that meets your needs.
How can I spice up this casserole?
You can give Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a delightful twist by incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. This adds extra flavor and heat, turning a classic dish into something unique!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole: Creamy Southern Delight Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180ºC) and lightly grease a large casserole dish with butter or oil.
- Combine in a large bowl the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Gently mix with a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Top generously with shredded cheese.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool your casserole for a few minutes before serving.