Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

Warm, buttery, and irresistibly creamy, Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the ultimate side dish to grace your table. This Southern staple pairs beautifully with almost any meal, making it a must-have for holidays, potlucks, or comforting weeknight dinners. With its rich flavor and effortless preparation, it’s no surprise this recipe has become a beloved favorite.

This dish strikes the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The golden crust offers a delicate crispness, while the center stays creamy and moist. The buttery corn and tangy sour cream harmonize perfectly, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re serving it with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or fried chicken, this casserole is destined to become a family favorite.

Read on to discover how to make this versatile recipe, tips for perfect results, and creative ways to customize it. Trust us, your guests will be asking for seconds—and the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Corn Casserole

• Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like canned corn and corn muffin mix, this recipe couldn’t be easier to put together.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or even a casual dinner, this casserole complements everything from hearty meats to vegetarian dishes.
• Easy to Customize: Add spices, mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños, or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit with guests, and the leftovers (if any!) are just as good.

Ingredients Overview

1. Whole Kernel Corn (1 can, drained): Adds sweet, juicy kernels that provide texture and balance to the casserole. Using canned corn keeps preparation simple, but fresh or frozen corn works too.
2. Cream-Style Corn (1 can): This key ingredient creates the casserole’s creamy, moist consistency and enhances the sweet corn flavor.
3. Sour Cream (1 cup): Contributes a tangy creaminess that complements the corn’s sweetness while ensuring a tender texture.
4. Melted Butter (1/2 cup): Infuses the casserole with rich, buttery flavor while helping bind the ingredients together.
5. Corn Muffin Mix (1 package): The backbone of the casserole, it adds a subtle sweetness and cornbread-like structure.
6. Cheddar Cheese (Shredded, 1 medium block): Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, savory layer that balances the sweet and creamy base.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Muffin Mix

Gradually fold in the corn muffin mix. Be careful not to overmix—stir just until the dry mix is moistened. Overmixing can make the casserole dense instead of tender.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid to prevent the top from browning too quickly.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, then continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm, and enjoy the buttery, cheesy goodness.

Tips for the Best Corn Casserole

1. Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to ensure a tender, fluffy texture.
2. Homemade Corn Muffin Mix: If you don’t have a box of mix, create your own with flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and oil.
3. Customize the Flavors: Enhance the dish with green chilies, jalapeños, or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
4. Make It Sweeter: Add 1/4 cup of sugar for a sweeter casserole, perfect for pairing with savory mains.
5. Cheese Tips: Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that affect melting.

How to Store and Reheat Corn Casserole

• To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• To Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings until heated through.
• To Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This recipe can be made in advance, making it perfect for holiday prep. Combine all the ingredients (except the cheese) in your baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, bake as directed, and add cheese before serving.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Corn Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Loaded Corn Casserole: Mix in cooked bacon, green onions, and extra cheese for a loaded flavor.
• Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add diced green chilies and use a Mexican cheese blend for a Tex-Mex twist.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the perfect side dish to add to your menu. Whether for a festive holiday meal or a casual family dinner, it brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its sweet corn flavor, creamy texture, and golden cheesy topping make it irresistible for both kids and adults alike.

Try this recipe for your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your success on Pinterest. Follow us for more Southern-inspired dishes that bring joy to every occasion. With this corn casserole, your meal is guaranteed to be unforgettable!