Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a comfort food classic that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite, then Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish beautifully combines the sweetness of whole kernel and cream-style corn with the rich texture of sour cream and melted butter, all enhanced by the moist, fluffy Jiffy corn muffin mix. Whether you are serving it as a side at a family reunion or bringing a crowd-pleaser to a holiday table, this casserole is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity—the ingredients are easy to find, yet each plays a crucial role in creating that luscious, creamy texture and sweet corn flavor we all love. Let’s take a look at what makes this casserole so special:
- Whole kernel corn (1 can, 15-ounce): Adds a satisfying pop and natural sweetness with every bite.
- Cream-style corn (1 can, 15-ounce): Brings the creamy, smooth base that makes the casserole so rich.
- Jiffy corn muffin mix (1 package, 8-ounce): Gives the dish its tender, slightly crumbly texture and binds everything together perfectly.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and enhances the creamy mouthfeel while keeping the casserole moist.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted): Infuses the casserole with a buttery richness that elevates every flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, optional): Sprinkled on top for a golden, cheesy crust that melts beautifully as it bakes.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick. It’s these simple preparations that set the stage for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Combine the Corns
In a large mixing bowl, pour in both the drained whole kernel corn and the cream-style corn. Stir them together gently, blending the sweet kernels with that creamy corn goodness, which creates the foundation of this comforting casserole.
Step 3: Mix in the Muffin Mix and Sour Cream
Add the entire package of Jiffy corn muffin mix to the corn mixture, followed by the sour cream. Folding these ingredients together produces a thick, consistent batter that promises a tender crumb and a luscious bite.
Step 4: Incorporate Melted Butter
Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix thoroughly. The butter not only enriches the flavor but also keeps the casserole wonderfully moist throughout baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly across the top. Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. That wonderful aroma while baking just lets you know something special is underway!
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives on top to add a burst of color and a mild fresh flavor contrast. A light dusting of smoked paprika also adds a subtle smoky hint that pairs amazingly well with the cheesy top.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, making it a stalwart at holiday feasts. It also complements lighter mains such as grilled chicken or fish, adding a cozy, indulgent touch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this creamy delight in small ramekins. You can also turn it into a layered casserole by adding cooked bacon or jalapeños between layers for an exciting flavor surprise. Presentation matters, and making it look as inviting as it tastes makes the dish even more irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be tough!), cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
This corn casserole freezes well. To freeze, bake the casserole fully or partially, cover it tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time to thaw safely, and cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning while warming.
FAQs
Can I make Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or a vegan sour cream. Use plant-based butter and omit or replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese option to keep the creamy texture and flavor.
Is Jiffy corn muffin mix essential, or can I use another cornmeal?
Jiffy mix helps achieve that signature texture and flavor of Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe. While you can experiment with other cornmeal blends, results may vary, especially in moisture and crumb, so Jiffy mix is recommended for authenticity.
Can I add extra ingredients to the casserole?
Definitely! Many people love to add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or even sautéed onions for a bit of sweetness. Just fold extras in before baking to keep everything balanced.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This casserole comfortably feeds six people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. If you need more, doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish works great.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before?
Yes! You can mix all the ingredients and keep the unbaked casserole covered in the fridge overnight, then bake fresh the next day. This makes dinner prep much easier when you have a busy schedule.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the sweet pop of corn makes it the ultimate comfort food side. Whether you’re new to cooking casseroles or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and absolutely worth trying. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make a dish that will quickly become a beloved favorite in your home!
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Paula Deen’s Creamy Corn Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a comforting Southern side dish combining whole kernel and cream-style corn with Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and butter to create a moist, creamy, and slightly sweet casserole. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese for a rich finish, this casserole is perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cream-style corn
- 1 (8-ounce) package Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, forming a thick batter.
- Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour batter into dish: Transfer the corn mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top if using for a melty, golden crust.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let it firm up slightly.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the batter.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese will yield a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving.
- Ensure the corn is well drained to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
