Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the epitome of Southern comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy goodness with the sweetness of corn. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday dinner or a family potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and has that homey, comforting flavor everyone loves. Whether you’re baking it in the oven or cooking it in a Crock Pot, this dish guarantees great results.

This recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned home chefs. If you’re looking for a no-fuss side dish that’s rich, flavorful, and comes together quickly, you’ll love Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can make it perfectly every time!

Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole

There are so many reasons why this recipe is a crowd-pleaser:

1. Minimal Ingredients: With just six simple ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to put together.
2. Versatile: It can be baked in the oven or prepared in a Crock Pot, making it perfect for any occasion.
3. Comforting: The combination of corn, cheese, sour cream, and butter creates a dish that’s indulgent and full of flavor.
4. Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences by adding other ingredients or adjusting the cheese.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so special:

• 14.75 oz. Creamed Corn: The base of the recipe, it provides that sweet, creamy texture.
• 15.25 oz. Whole Kernel Sweet Corn (Drained): Adds bite and texture, while balancing the creamy base.
• 8.5 oz. Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: This is the secret to achieving that perfect consistency—a soft, slightly sweet cornbread-like texture.
• 8 oz. Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• 1 Stick of Butter (Melted): Makes the casserole buttery and moist.
• 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded): The cheese adds a savory element and melts to form a crispy, golden topping.

this RECIPE

Equipment You’ll Need

To make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
• 9 x 13-inch casserole dish or 10-inch cast iron skillet (for oven method)
• Crock Pot (for slow cooker method)
• Oven mitts or heatproof gloves
• Cheese grater (if shredding the cheddar cheese fresh)

Step-by-Step Preparation (Oven Method)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly heated oven is crucial for ensuring even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamed corn, whole kernel corn (drained), Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly combined. Make sure the whole kernel corn is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish or a 10-inch cast iron skillet. The cast iron option will give a slightly crispier edge, perfect for those who love a bit of texture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, uncovered. The casserole should begin to set during this time.

Step 5: Add Cheese Once the casserole has baked for 45 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.

Step-by-Step Preparation (Crock Pot Method)

For added convenience, you can prepare this corn casserole in a Crock Pot:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Just like the oven method, mix the creamed corn, whole kernel corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter in a large bowl.

Step 2: Transfer to the Crock Pot Lightly grease the Crock Pot, then pour the mixture in.

Step 3: Slow Cook Set the Crock Pot to cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the center is firm and set.

Step 4: Add Cheese About 20 minutes before the cooking time ends, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover the Crock Pot again to allow the cheese to melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Corn Properly: Be sure to drain the whole kernel corn well. Excess liquid can make your casserole too runny.
• Skipping the Resting Time: It’s essential to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This will help it set properly and make it easier to serve.
• Overcooking: Be careful not to overbake the casserole. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture rather than the moist, tender result you want.

Presentation Tips for Corn Casserole

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole can look as good as it tastes with a few presentation tweaks:

• Add a Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or even a dash of smoked paprika on top for added color.
• Serve in Cast Iron: If you’re using a cast iron skillet, bring it straight to the table for a rustic, homey look.
• Use Small Bowls: Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more refined presentation at dinner parties.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

This recipe is delicious as is, but you can get creative with these variations:

• Add Heat: Stir in some diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
• Add Protein: Cooked and crumbled bacon or shredded chicken can make this a heartier main dish.
• Change the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack to switch up the flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover corn casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Corn casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Some non-alcoholic pairings to complement this dish include:

• Lemonade: Its tartness balances the richness of the casserole.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing, slightly sweet drink that works well with the flavors of the dish.

Pair this dish with BBQ chicken, roasted vegetables, or grilled steak for a complete, hearty meal.

Paula Deen Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble everything except the cheese topping, cover it, and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, top with cheese and cook as directed.

Can I use a different type of corn? Absolutely. You can use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned whole kernel corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid if using frozen corn.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream? Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a slightly healthier twist. It will still provide the creamy texture and tang.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will always deliver. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more Southern-inspired dishes like this!

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