Description of this recipe: This recipe is a beloved Southern classic, offering a sweet and savory combination of corn, creamy textures, and a hint of cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is desired. Paula Deen’s version is especially decadent and easy to make, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore this corn casserole because it’s incredibly simple to whip up, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The creamy, corny, and slightly sweet flavor is undeniably addictive, and the optional cheddar cheese topping adds a delightful savory element. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it a versatile dish for any gathering. Plus, its comforting nature makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Introduction
Paula Deen, the queen of Southern cuisine, has gifted us with countless recipes that embody comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Among her many culinary treasures, the Classic Corn Casserole stands out as a true testament to her style. This dish, a harmonious blend of sweet corn, creamy goodness, and a touch of Southern charm, has become a staple on dinner tables across the country.
Corn casserole, in its essence, is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary hug that evokes memories of family gatherings, holiday feasts, and warm, comforting meals. Paula Deen’s version elevates this classic with her signature touch of richness and ease, making it accessible to both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. The recipe is a symphony of textures and flavors, where the sweetness of the corn dances gracefully with the creaminess of the sour cream and the buttery notes that tie it all together.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its adaptability. While the core ingredients remain consistent, you can easily customize it to suit your personal preferences. Adding a sprinkle of cheddar cheese takes it to a whole new level of cheesy delight, while a dash of hot sauce can introduce a subtle kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a corn casserole that is uniquely your own.
Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress guests at a holiday dinner or simply craving a comforting side for a weeknight meal, Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole is a perfect choice. Its simplicity belies its incredible flavor, and its comforting nature is sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a Southern classic that is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust. While the oven is preheating, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is crucial as it prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish, making serving and cleaning up a breeze. You can use butter, cooking spray, or even a light coating of oil to grease the dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and melted butter. This is where the magic begins. The combination of whole kernel and creamed corn creates a delightful textural contrast, while the sour cream adds a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the corn. The melted butter infuses the casserole with richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 3: Stir in the corn muffin mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the corn muffin mix, resulting in a tough casserole. Gently fold the mix into the wet ingredients until just combined, leaving a few streaks of the mix visible. This will ensure a tender and moist final product.
Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the batter evenly in the dish, ensuring that it reaches all corners. This will help the casserole bake evenly and prevent any parts from being undercooked.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to check for doneness. The casserole is ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center is set, meaning it no longer jiggles when you gently shake the dish. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent it from burning.
Step 6 (Optional): If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top during the last 5–10 minutes of baking for a melty finish. Adding cheddar cheese takes this casserole to a whole new level of deliciousness. The melted cheese creates a gooey, savory topping that complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
Step 7: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. It also prevents you from burning your mouth on the hot filling. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before digging in.
COOKING Rating: 5/5 – This recipe is incredibly easy and yields consistently delicious results. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a side dish to grilled meats, poultry, or fish.
- Pairs perfectly with barbecue, fried chicken, or ham.
- Makes a great addition to holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Can also be served as a vegetarian main course alongside a salad or other vegetable sides.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of sour cream.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
- Mix in some cooked bacon or ham for a savory twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
- If you don’t have Jiffy corn muffin mix, you can use a homemade corn muffin mix or even yellow cake mix in a pinch.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, estimated)
Calories: 350-400 (depending on cheese and additions)
Protein: 5-7g
Sodium: 400-500mg (depending on corn muffin mix)
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a journey back to simpler times, to family gatherings filled with laughter and love, and to the comforting embrace of Southern hospitality. This dish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. It’s a blank canvas that you can customize to your heart’s content. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, cheesy or plain, there’s a version of this casserole that’s perfect for you. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
But beyond its flavor and versatility, this casserole offers something even more valuable: a sense of connection. It’s a dish that brings people together, that sparks conversations, and that creates lasting memories. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or even strangers, this casserole has the power to create a sense of community and belonging.
So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and comforting, look no further than Paula Deen’s Classic Corn Casserole. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, a cherished tradition that you’ll pass down for generations to come.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Q3: I don’t have Jiffy corn muffin mix. What can I use instead?
A: If you don’t have Jiffy corn muffin mix, you can use a homemade corn muffin mix or even yellow cake mix in a pinch. For a homemade corn muffin mix, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of cornmeal, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to this casserole to customize it to your liking. Some popular additions include diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapenos. Just make sure to cook the vegetables before adding them to the casserole.
Q5: Can I make this casserole without sour cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Greek yogurt will add a similar tang, while cream cheese will make the casserole extra creamy and rich.
