There’s a certain joy that comes from gathering around a warm, cheesy dish, and Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole never fails to ignite that happiness. As the golden crust bubbles away in the oven, the mingling aromas of sweet corn and melted mozzarella create an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. This recipe is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, turning humble ingredients into a comforting feast that’s impressively easy to whip up.
You might wonder how a dish that tastes this indulgent can come together in just 30 minutes. The secret lies in the simplicity of the ingredients—whole corn, creamed corn, and just a hint of Jiffy corn muffin mix come together effortlessly, paired with creamy sour cream and a touch of butter. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or looking for that perfect side for a summer barbecue, this corn casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to any occasion. So, let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that will leave you and your loved ones coming back for seconds!
Why is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: This dish combines sweet and savory notes, creating a delightful contrast that will have everyone asking for more.
Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious, homemade meal that feels like comfort food heaven.
Family-friendly appeal: Perfect for both kids and adults, its cheesy goodness makes it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
Versatile side dish: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole complements any main course beautifully.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, check out our collection of quick comfort food ideas.
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Whole Corn Kernel – 2 cups, drained for a robust corn flavor that brings sweetness to each bite.
• Creamed Corn – 2 cups, adding a silky texture and extra moisture to the dish.
• Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix – 1 cup, a magical ingredient that binds everything together while giving it that perfect golden crust.
• Sour Cream – ½ cup, for a tangy touch that balances the sweetness of the corn.
• Butter, melted – ¼ cup, ensuring richness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Mozzarella Cheese, shredded – 1 cup, providing gooey, melty goodness that’s simply irresistible.
This recipe captures the essence of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, elevating your dining experience with minimal effort!
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (180ºC). This initial step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and achieves that lovely golden crust everyone loves.
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Combine the whole corn kernels, creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well-blended, creating a sweet and creamy mixture.
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Grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, spread the corn mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring every corner is filled.
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Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, sprinkling it generously over the mixture for that ooey-gooey texture. It will melt beautifully as it bakes.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end for that perfect color!
Optional: Serve with fresh cilantro or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Every bite of this delicious casserole deserves the perfect companion to elevate your meal experience.
- Grilled Chicken: Offers a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the casserole, enhancing your dining experience.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly seasoned greens bring freshness and a bit of crunch, balancing out the richness of the cornbread dish.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of bacon crumbled on top adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect way to cut through the dish’s creaminess, refreshing the palate.
- Cornbread Muffins: For corn lovers, these fluffy muffins keep the corn theme going while providing a delightful, buttery bite.
- Sweet Tea: This southern classic pairs wonderfully, as its sweetness complements the casserole’s savory layers, creating a harmonious meal.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings warmth and sweetness to finish off your meal on a comforting note.
Each of these pairings adds its own charm, rounding out the experience of enjoying Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole with friends and family.
Make Ahead Options
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the entire corn mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just combine the whole corn, creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, top it with mozzarella cheese, and bake it directly from the fridge for 25 minutes. This ensures your casserole is just as delicious and gives you a comforting home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
• Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn kernels if possible, as they provide a sweeter taste compared to canned options. Just cut them off the cob after boiling.
• Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to avoid dry spots in the casserole. A uniform mixture leads to a smoother texture.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar for an extra flavor kick. Just remember that mozzarella creates that milky meltiness!
• Baking Time: Watch your casserole carefully during the last few minutes of baking to get that perfect bubbly, golden crust without burning.
• Leftover Tips: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results—microwaving may make it soggy.
Enjoy making Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a staple in your home-cooked meals!
Storage Tips for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw your frozen Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Enjoy its warm, cheesy goodness again!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will take your corn casserole to new heights and make it uniquely yours!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a warm, spicy touch. This will elevate the flavor profile while keeping it fun and exciting.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap out mozzarella for sharp cheddar cheese. The sharpness adds depth, while the gooey texture still keeps it incredibly inviting!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh contrast. Not only does this brighten the dish, but it also adds a layer of flavor on every bite.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed bell peppers or onions for color and added nutrients. These veggies will soften during baking and give your dish a lovely texture twist.
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Creamy Swap: For a tangy touch, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt. It brings a creamy richness while packing a protein punch without sacrificing flavor.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the Jiffy corn muffin mix with a gluten-free cornmeal blend for a similar texture. You won’t miss the gluten with this tasty swap!
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Sweet Surprise: Include a handful of sautéed zucchini or carrots for extra sweetness and texture. This not only adds nutritional value but introduces a lovely veggie vibe.
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Crunchy Topping: Finish with a crispy layer of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs combined with melted butter on top before baking. It will give your casserole a wonderful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Feel encouraged to mix and match these variations to create a version that resonates with your taste buds the most!
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of corn is best for Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Absolutely! While canned corn kernels work just fine, using fresh corn adds a sweeter and fresher flavor. Simply boil the corn and cut the kernels off the cob, which will enhance the texture and taste of your casserole!
How should I store leftover Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
After enjoying your meal, refrigerate any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh, allowing you to savor the deliciousness again. Just be sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve its creamy texture!
Can I freeze Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze the casserole, place it in a freezer-safe container after it has cooled completely. It will last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
What if my casserole comes out too dry?
If you find your Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a bit dry, make sure you’re mixing all the ingredients thoroughly. A uniform blend avoids dry spots. Adding a bit more sour cream can also help, providing the moisture that keeps the casserole creamy and delicious!
Is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet?
For a gluten-free version, substitute the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix with a gluten-free corn muffin mix. There are great options available in stores nowadays, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this fabulous dish without worry!
Can I use other types of cheese in the casserole?
Very! While mozzarella gives that gooey effect, you can definitely mix things up by using cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just remember that each cheese brings its own unique flavor, creating a delicious adventure in every bite!
These tips will help you navigate the joy of making and enjoying Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole—a comforting dish that’s sure to delight family and friends alike!
Irresistible Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole You’ll Crave Again!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180ºC).
- Combine whole corn kernels, creamed corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well-blended.
- Grease a casserole dish and spread the corn mixture evenly into the dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.