Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners, look no further than Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole. This rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole is a southern staple that’s beloved for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves comfort food. Let’s dive into what makes this corn casserole so special, how to make it, and some helpful tips to perfect your dish!

What Makes Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Special?

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole stands out for its rich texture, simple ingredients, and irresistible combination of creamed corn, whole kernel sweet corn, sour cream, and cheese. The addition of Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix adds the perfect balance of sweetness and structure to the dish. Plus, this recipe offers flexibility with both oven and Crock Pot options, making it convenient for any kitchen setup.

It’s a fantastic side dish for holidays or potlucks because it pairs well with a variety of main courses like roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or beef stew. Its cheesy, buttery flavor makes it comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 14.75 oz. creamed corn – This adds smoothness and moisture to the casserole.
• 15.25 oz. whole kernel sweet corn, drained – Provides texture and a burst of sweetness.
• 8.5 oz. Jiffy corn muffin mix – The secret ingredient that gives the casserole structure and slight sweetness.
• 8 oz. sour cream – Makes the dish creamy and tangy.
• 1 stick butter, melted – For richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Adds cheesy goodness to the top.

Quality Ingredient Tips:

• Corn: Fresh or frozen sweet corn can be used in place of canned for a fresher taste.
• Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or experiment with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients.
• 9 x 13 casserole dish or 10-inch cast iron skillet – Ideal for baking the casserole.
• Crock Pot – If you prefer the slow-cooker method.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – For mixing.
• Grater – To shred fresh cheese if needed.

How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole (Oven Method)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except for the shredded cheddar cheese. Remember to drain the whole kernel corn before adding it to the mixture.
3. Mix well to combine, ensuring that the corn muffin mix is fully incorporated into the other ingredients.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet for an added touch of rustic charm.
5. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes. The casserole should be set, but still moist in the center.
6. After 45 minutes, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top begins to brown slightly.
8. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up.

Crock Pot Variation for Corn Casserole

If you prefer to use a Crock Pot, follow these instructions for a slow-cooked version of the dish:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients, except for the cheddar cheese. Drain the whole kernel corn first.
2. Lightly grease the Crock Pot and pour the mixture into the pot.
3. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
4. During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover. Cook until the cheese is fully melted, and the casserole is set in the center.
5. Check the consistency to ensure the middle is firm before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Corn Casserole

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter as this can lead to a tougher texture. You want the casserole to stay light and moist.
• Drain the Corn: Be sure to properly drain the whole kernel corn to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• Check Doneness: The casserole is done when the edges are golden, and the center is set but still moist. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to add a personal touch to the recipe, here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Greek Yogurt: Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version with added protein.
• Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For a warm and inviting presentation, serve your corn casserole straight from the cast iron skillet or a colorful ceramic baking dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a range of entrees like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty vegetable stew.

If you’re hosting a holiday meal, place the casserole dish in the center of the table, alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a classic family-style feast.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Fridge: Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQ Section

Can I make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour it into a greased dish and bake as directed.

Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely. The corn casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping and freezing.

What can I use instead of sour cream? You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or even cream cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a side dish for a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this simple, yet satisfying recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, comforting dishes like this one.

Print