Paula Deen Corn Casserole has been a staple at my family gatherings for as long as I can remember. There’s something so comforting about that warm, creamy texture and the sweet burst of corn that just screams “home.” My mom used to make this Paula Deen creamed corn casserole every Thanksgiving, and the aroma filling the house always made my stomach rumble in anticipation. It’s truly an easy Paula Deen corn casserole that anyone can master, and the way it bakes up golden and bubbly is just pure magic. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen Corn Casserole
This classic dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- Incredible Taste: It’s perfectly creamy, sweet, and savory, making it a delightful flavor experience.
- Super Quick Prep: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes flat – perfect for busy weeknights!
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are simple pantry staples, making it an economical choice for any meal.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting casserole; it’s always a hit!
- Versatile Side Dish: This Paula Deen Southern corn casserole pairs wonderfully with everything from BBQ to roasted chicken.
- Effortless Baking: Simply mix and bake – no complicated techniques required.
- Authentic Southern Charm: It captures the true essence of a beloved Paula Deen Southern corn casserole.
- Comfort Food Bliss: It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
Paula Deen Corn Casserole Ingredients
Gathering the right Paula Deen corn casserole ingredients is the first step to creating this beloved side dish. You’ll need two cans of corn: one 15 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained really well to keep the casserole from getting watery, and one 15 oz. can creamed corn for that signature velvety texture. For richness, we’ll add 1 cup sour cream and 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted. The magic binder comes from 1 package (8 oz.) corn muffin mix – this gives it a lovely cake-like quality. For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden top, you can also add 1 cup shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, if you like!
How to Make Paula Deen Corn Casserole
Following these Paula Deen corn casserole instructions is incredibly simple, even if you’re new to cooking. You’ll have this delicious side dish ready in no time!
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a baking dish – a classic 8×8 inch or 9×13 inch dish works perfectly. Make sure to grease it well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine your corn ingredients. Add the 1 can (15 oz.) whole kernel corn, drained thoroughly – this is crucial for a good texture! Then, pour in the 1 can (15 oz.) creamed corn. Next, stir in the 1 cup sour cream and the 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy, like a dreamy corn pudding.
- Step 3: Now, it’s time to add the binder. Gently fold in the 1 package (8 oz.) corn muffin mix. Be careful not to overmix here; you just want to incorporate the mix until there are no dry spots. Overmixing can make the casserole tough, and nobody wants that!
- Step 4: Pour this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula so it’s an even layer. This helps it bake uniformly.
- Step 5: If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheese evenly over the top. It melts into a gooey, golden layer that’s simply irresistible.
- Step 6: Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the casserole looks set and bubbly around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is heavenly!
- Step 7: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more, making it easier to scoop and serve. Enjoy your homemade Paula Deen Southern corn casserole!
Pro Tips for the Best Paula Deen Corn Casserole
Want to elevate your corn casserole game? These tips will ensure your dish is the star of the table!
- Using a Paula Deen Jiffy corn casserole mix is convenient, but don’t overmix the batter after adding it. Just fold it in gently until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- For an extra creamy texture, you can add a block of cream cheese to the mixture in Step 2. Let it soften slightly before mixing it in.
- Make sure your whole kernel corn is very well-drained. Excess liquid is the enemy of a perfectly set casserole.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, like a sharp cheddar or a spicy pepper jack, for a flavor twist.
What’s the secret to perfect Paula Deen Corn Casserole?
The secret to the best Paula Deen corn casserole lies in balancing the sweet corn with the creamy sour cream and butter, all bound together by the corn muffin mix. The key is not to overmix once the muffin mix is added, ensuring a tender, almost cake-like texture.
Can I make Paula Deen Corn Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare this casserole ahead! Just mix all the ingredients together, pour into your greased baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Paula Deen Corn Casserole?
The most common pitfall is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a tough casserole. Also, ensure you drain the whole kernel corn thoroughly to prevent a watery consistency. Finally, don’t overbake; it should be golden and set, not dry.
Best Ways to Serve Paula Deen Corn Casserole
This delightful Paula Deen corn casserole is incredibly versatile and makes a fantastic Paula Deen corn casserole side dish for almost any meal. It pairs beautifully with hearty main courses like barbecue pulled pork or fried chicken, offering a creamy sweetness that balances the savory flavors. For a holiday feast, it’s a classic addition alongside turkey and mashed potatoes. You can also serve it as part of a larger spread with other Southern favorites like collard greens and macaroni and cheese for a truly comforting meal experience.
Nutrition Facts for Paula Deen Corn Casserole
When you’re enjoying a slice of this delicious Paula Deen corn casserole, it’s always good to have an idea of what you’re eating. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 550mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of corn muffin mix or cheese.
How to Store and Reheat Paula Deen Corn Casserole
Leftovers of this wonderful Paula Deen baked corn casserole are just as delicious, but proper storage is key. Once it’s cooled down a bit after baking, you’ll want to transfer it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this casserole freezes beautifully for up to 2 months! Just make sure it’s well-wrapped.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored corn casserole, reheating is simple. For best results, gently reheat individual portions or the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C). A smaller portion might only need 20-30 minutes, while a larger amount could take a bit longer. This method ensures it gets warm all the way through and retains that lovely texture. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can sometimes make the casserole a bit watery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paula Deen Corn Casserole
What makes Paula Deen corn casserole so popular?
The enduring popularity of this Paula Deen corn casserole comes down to its incredibly comforting taste and ease of preparation. It hits all the right notes: creamy, sweet, and savory. Plus, it’s a dish that evokes nostalgia for many, reminding them of family meals and holidays. It’s a simple, yet satisfying, Southern classic.
Can I add extra ingredients to my Paula Deen corn casserole?
Absolutely! There are many ways to customize this recipe. You can add a can of diced green chilies for a little heat, or mix in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Some people also enjoy adding a diced jalapeño. These additions can really enhance the flavor profile of your Paula Deen corn casserole.
How do I make Paula Deen corn casserole without a corn muffin mix?
If you don’t have a corn muffin mix, you can make your own simple binder. Whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use this mixture in place of the boxed mix. This is a great way to learn how to make Paula Deen corn casserole from scratch!
What kind of corn is best for Paula Deen corn casserole?
For the authentic taste and texture, using both whole kernel corn and creamed corn is key. Draining the whole kernel corn well is important to avoid a watery casserole. While canned corn is traditional, some people experiment with fresh or frozen corn, but ensure they are cooked and drained properly before adding.
Variations of Paula Deen Corn Casserole You Can Try
While the classic recipe is divine, I love to switch things up sometimes! Here are a few variations that are absolutely delicious.
- Paula Deen corn casserole with cream cheese: For an extra decadent and creamy casserole, stir in an 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese along with the sour cream and butter. You’ll get an even richer, smoother texture that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Spicy Southwest Corn Casserole: Add a can of diced green chilies (drained) and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a little kick. A sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese on top works wonders here!
- Gluten-Free Option: Look for a gluten-free corn muffin mix, or create your own GF binder using a gluten-free flour blend, cornmeal, baking powder, and a touch of sugar. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
- Air Fryer Corn Casserole: For a quicker cook, you can try making this in your air fryer! Use a smaller, oven-safe dish that fits inside your air fryer basket. Adjust the temperature to around 320°F (160°C) and cook for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness.
Paula Deen Corn Casserole: Amazing 45-Min Dish
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Paula Deen Corn Casserole recipe delivers a creamy, sweet, and comforting Southern-style side dish perfect for any gathering. It’s an easy-to-make baked corn casserole that’s a favorite for its simple preparation and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz.) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz.) creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz.) corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the corn muffin mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Ensure whole kernel corn is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy texture.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time; the center should be firm.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
