Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole – A Creamy and Cheesy Comfort Dish

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of a well-made corn casserole. This dish, a hallmark of Southern cuisine, has graced family tables and holiday feasts for generations. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced in flavor, Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole takes this beloved recipe to new heights. With its simple ingredients, effortless preparation, and rich, comforting taste, it’s easy to see why this casserole has become a staple in kitchens across America.

Let’s take a deep dive into Paula Deen’s take on the corn casserole. In this post, we’ll explore how to make this dish from scratch, the tips and tricks to perfect it, and why it’s such a popular choice for family gatherings, holidays, and weeknight dinners alike.

What is Corn Casserole?

Corn casserole, also known as corn pudding, is a versatile side dish typically made from corn, a rich creamy base, and various flavor-enhancing ingredients like cheese, butter, and eggs. It’s often baked until golden brown on top, resulting in a slightly crispy exterior with a soft, moist interior. This dish has earned its place on many Southern tables due to its comforting texture and the way it complements a wide variety of main courses.

Paula Deen’s version of this dish takes it to the next level by adding a rich and cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with her signature Southern style. Known for her indulgent and flavorful recipes, Paula’s corn casserole is no exception. It features a smooth and creamy consistency, making it both hearty and satisfying, while still light enough to be enjoyed as a side dish.

The History of Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

While corn casseroles and corn puddings have existed for many years in various forms, Paula Deen’s version has become one of the most iconic. Paula Deen, a celebrated TV personality, chef, and cookbook author, is well-known for her Southern-inspired cooking. Her recipes often highlight rich, hearty flavors, and her corn casserole is no different. In her version, she incorporates a balance of sweet and savory flavors, which allows the corn to shine while adding a satisfying cheesy richness.

The dish has become so popular that it frequently appears at holiday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings. Its simplicity and affordability make it a go-to dish for feeding a crowd. But even though it’s simple to make, the taste is anything but ordinary.

The Secret to Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

What sets Paula Deen’s corn casserole apart from others is the perfect balance of creamy texture, savory flavor, and that signature cheesy kick. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. The combination of sweet corn kernels, butter, sour cream, and cheese creates a rich, velvety filling that holds its shape well when baked. But the real secret to Paula’s recipe lies in her choice of ingredients, which work together harmoniously to create that classic Southern comfort flavor.

Another key element that sets her casserole apart is the use of a box of Jiffy cornbread mix. While some corn casseroles rely on scratch-made cornbread, Paula’s use of the Jiffy mix adds both convenience and the perfect crumbly texture. It’s the ideal shortcut for busy cooks who want a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole

Making Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole requires a short list of ingredients. While it’s not overly complicated, each element contributes to the casserole’s signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 1 can (15 oz) of whole kernel corn (drained)
• 1 can (15 oz) of cream-style corn
• 1 box of Jiffy cornbread mix
• 1 cup of sour cream (this adds creaminess and depth to the dish)
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp, depending on preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (adjust based on preference)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)

Instructions for Making Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole

Making Paula Deen’s corn casserole is simple and requires only a few steps. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a mouthwatering casserole ready to serve in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick during baking, allowing for easy serving.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, Jiffy cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and beaten eggs. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture will be thick and creamy, with the cheese evenly distributed throughout.

Step 3: Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish

Transfer the corn mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a bit uneven at first—it will settle during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole has set in the center. You can check the casserole by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when the casserole is fully baked. If you prefer a slightly crispier top, leave it in for a few extra minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent over-baking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to slice into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Corn Casserole

While Paula Deen’s corn casserole is easy to make, here are a few expert tips to help you perfect the dish:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your sour cream and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This will help everything blend together more smoothly, resulting in a more even texture.
• Customize with Add-ins: Feel free to add extra ingredients like chopped green chilies, diced onions, or crumbled bacon to personalize the flavor of your casserole. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and give the dish a unique twist.
• Add Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy casserole, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will melt into a cheesy, golden crust that’s irresistible.
• Serve Immediately or Store: This dish is best served hot, fresh from the oven, but it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Why Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole is Perfect for Any Occasion

Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a Sunday family meal, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to please a crowd. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted turkey and ham to grilled meats and barbecue. It’s also an excellent complement to other comfort foods, such as mashed potatoes and mac and cheese.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time, freeze it for later, and even tweak it to suit your personal taste. With its rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s no wonder that this casserole has become a favorite in many households.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a comforting, indulgent meal that brings people together. With its creamy consistency, cheesy goodness, and touch of sweetness, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

By following Paula Deen’s simple yet flavorful recipe, you’ll create a dish that’s as timeless as it is delicious. With minimal ingredients and just a bit of time in the oven, you’ll have a comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole ready to serve in no time. Don’t forget to add your own twist with optional add-ins and toppings to make it your own.

Enjoy your cheesy, creamy, and absolutely mouthwatering corn casserole!