If you’re craving something warm, creamy, and simply bursting with Southern charm, Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is about to become your go-to recipe. This crowd-pleasing classic brings together sweet corn, tender muffin mix, and a touch of buttery richness in a way that magically transforms modest pantry staples into a bake that everyone swoons over. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, potluck, or just want a weeknight treat, you can count on Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole to disappear fast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this classic is how just a handful of everyday ingredients work together for incredible texture and flavor. Each star of the show plays an essential role, so don’t skip a thing!
- Canned Whole Kernel Corn: Adds pops of sweet, juicy corn flavor and delightful bites throughout the casserole.
- Cream-Style Corn: Brings creamy texture and natural sweetness, making the base extra luscious.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: The secret shortcut to a fluffy, golden bake with just a hint of sweetness.
- Sour Cream: Infuses the casserole with unbeatable tang and keeps every bite moist.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Gives rich, buttery flavor while contributing smoothness to the batter.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): Adds melty, savory goodness on top or throughout — perfect if you love cheesy comfort food.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures an even bake and that irresistible golden top, just like you get at a Southern potluck. If you haven’t already, lightly grease your 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish — nothing sticks to the sides when a little butter or nonstick spray is involved!
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss in your drained whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Give everything a gentle stir until the mixture is homogeneous but don’t over-mix – you want tender results. If you love finding those sweet corn pieces in every bite, make sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl well.
Step 3: Pour and Add Cheese
Transfer your batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly. If you’re a cheese fan, now’s the time to sprinkle shredded cheddar right over the top. (Pro tip: You can fold the cheese into the batter itself for a gooey surprise in every forkful.)
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the center of your oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top gleams with a light golden brown. If you’re doubling the recipe for a crowd, use a 9×13-inch dish and add a few extra minutes to the timer. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are slightly crisp and the aroma calls diners to the table!
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, give your Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole a 5 to 10 minute rest. This helps it finish setting up and ensures easier slicing. The wait is the hardest part, but resist the urge to dive in too soon—just trust the process!
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole
Garnishes
For a touch of color and a hint of freshness, try scattering sliced green onions or fresh chopped parsley over the top of your warm casserole. A little dusting of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper also takes it from comforting to downright irresistible.
Side Dishes
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole shines as a side, so serve it alongside classics like roasted turkey, ham, fried chicken, or pulled pork. It’s divine with collard greens or baked beans, too. The creamy, slightly sweet flavors balance anything spicy or smoky on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve individual spoonfuls of corn casserole in ramekins or small mason jars. You can also bake in muffin tins for cute, grab-and-go portions—perfect for picnics or kids’ plates. For potlucks, transport it in the baking dish and garnish right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, holding onto that creamy texture and rich flavor—even better the next day!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze servings of corn casserole. Cool it thoroughly, then wrap the pieces individually or as a whole casserole in plastic wrap and foil. It will last up to two months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place in a 350°F oven, covered, until warmed through (about 20 minutes for a baking dish or 5–10 minutes for individual pieces). For a quick fix, microwave single servings in 30-second bursts until hot. If you love a crispy top, broil for just a minute or two to revive that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cornbread mix instead of Jiffy?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite cornbread mix recipe, substitute 8 ounces of it for the Jiffy. Just make sure it includes a bit of sugar for that traditional hint of sweetness Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is known for.
Is it possible to make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole gluten free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix and double check all your ingredient labels to ensure they’re gluten free. The results are just as tasty and satisfying as the classic version.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute. It still provides that lovely tang and moisture that keeps the casserole tender.
Can I assemble Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the batter and pour it into your baking dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as directed.
Will it work to double the recipe?
Doubling for a crowd is a breeze. Just mix up twice the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Final Thoughts
With its irresistible creaminess and soulful Southern flavor, Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole brings sheer comfort to every table. Whether you’re whipping it up for weeknight warmth or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to win over hearts and appetites. Give it a try soon and make your own cozy, buttery, corn-filled memories!
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Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is a classic Southern side dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of corn flavor. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
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
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
- Prepare the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a beaten egg to the mixture.
- You can also mix the cheese into the batter instead of sprinkling it on top.
- Double the recipe for a crowd and bake in a 9×13-inch dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
