Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

Introduction

When I first tried Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole, I knew it was going to become a family favorite. The creamy texture, combined with the sweet corn and hint of butter, made it a perfect complement to any meal, especially during the holidays. It’s a dish that has quickly become a staple in our household—whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a comforting weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s so easy to make, with only a handful of ingredients, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe, and I’m happy to share. The golden, slightly crisp top paired with the soft, flavorful middle makes for the perfect balance. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a deliciously simple yet indulgent side dish that has become a classic in many homes. What makes this casserole so special is its creamy texture combined with the sweetness of the corn. The addition of sour cream and butter makes it rich and comforting, while the Jiffy corn muffin mix gives it a slight fluffiness that holds everything together. The beauty of this casserole is that it’s both quick to prepare and incredibly forgiving. The ingredients are easy to find, and you don’t have to worry about precision—the measurements are simple, and the outcome is always fantastic.

This casserole is perfect for any occasion, but it really shines during the holidays or large family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roasted turkey at Thanksgiving, a succulent ham for Christmas, or just with a simple weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can make it ahead of time, add cheese if you like, or even customize it with other seasonings or ingredients. It’s a foolproof recipe that will become one of your go-to sides.

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

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, making sure there are no lumps from the muffin mix. The batter will be thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to make it even.
4. Optional Cheese Topping:
   • If desired, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This step is optional, but the cheese adds a wonderful flavor and golden top that is irresistible.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If using cheese, you can bake it for the full duration or add the cheese during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This lets it set and makes it easier to cut into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this delicious side dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• As a side dish: Serve this casserole with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken. It’s a fantastic accompaniment to almost any holiday meal.
• As a comfort food dinner: Pair it with a salad for a quick and comforting weeknight meal.
• Top it with cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor and a golden crust.
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for potlucks or large gatherings.
• For extra flavor: Add some chili flakes or paprika for a bit of heat, or try adding sautéed onions or garlic for more depth of flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your sour cream and butter are fresh to get the best flavor in your casserole.
2. Can be made in advance: If you’re prepping for a holiday meal, you can make the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add the cheese topping during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
3. Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a little kick.
4. Use different cheeses: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan.
5. Make it dairy-free: Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan butter to make this casserole dairy-free.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make it ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it in the casserole.
3. What can I use instead of Jiffy corn muffin mix?
   You can substitute the Jiffy mix with a homemade corn muffin mix or any other cornmeal-based muffin mix, though the texture may differ slightly.
4. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan butter.
5. Can I freeze the casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Once assembled, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
6. Can I add meat to this casserole?
   Yes, you can add cooked bacon, sausage, or ground turkey for a heartier version.
7. Can I use full-fat sour cream?
   Yes, you can use full-fat sour cream for a richer flavor. The recipe will work with either regular or light sour cream.
8. How can I make the casserole more flavorful?
   Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of paprika to enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also add a nice touch.
9. How long should I bake the casserole if I add cheese?
   If you add cheese, bake it for the full 55 minutes, or add it during the last 10-15 minutes to prevent it from burning.
10. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
    Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg to make it egg-free.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, attending a potluck, or just making a comforting side dish for a weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to impress. The creamy, flavorful corn filling combined with the golden, slightly crispy topping makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with cheese, spices, or other ingredients to suit your preferences. With its simple ingredients and foolproof instructions, this casserole is a must-have in your recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish and watch it become a family favorite!

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