Paula Deen Corn Casserole

If you’re looking for the perfect Southern-style comfort food that’s effortless to make yet packed with flavor, Paula Deen Corn Casserole is exactly what you need! This creamy, sweet, and savory corn bake has been a staple at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners for years—and for good reason. With just a handful of ingredients like Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, creamed corn, sour cream, and butter, this dish bakes up into a rich, golden casserole that pairs beautifully with almost any meal.

Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a last-minute get-together, this one-bowl, no-fuss recipe is guaranteed to steal the spotlight. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Keep it classic or add a cheesy twist for extra indulgence. Get ready to enjoy a taste of true Southern comfort at your table!

Ingredients

Before we dive into making this easy, Southern-style corn casserole, let’s gather everything you need. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a few pantry staples come together to create a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet dish that everyone will love!

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (8.5-ounce) box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix – The key ingredient that gives the casserole its signature texture.
• 1 (15-ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained – Adds a bit of bite and texture.
• 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn – Brings moisture and sweetness to the dish.
• 1 cup sour cream – Creates a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet corn.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps bind everything together for a perfect consistency.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

Want to give your corn casserole an irresistible upgrade? Here are a few delicious add-ins:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For a cheesy, golden crust.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – Adds a touch of warmth.
• 4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon – Because everything’s better with bacon!
• 2 tablespoons chopped jalapeños – For a subtle kick of heat.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions – Adds freshness and color.

No fancy ingredients here—just a handful of simple, down-home staples that create a dish bursting with classic Southern charm. Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to the fun part—bringing this crowd-pleasing corn casserole to life! 🍽️

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this easy, one-bowl Paula Deen Corn Casserole. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how effortless this dish is to prepare. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a golden, creamy, and delicious side dish ready to impress!

1. Preheat the Oven

Before anything else, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat. This ensures even baking and helps the casserole develop that perfect golden crust. While waiting, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Get your biggest mixing bowl ready and start combining these ingredients:

• Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
• Whole kernel corn (drained)
• Creamed corn
• Sour cream
• Melted butter
• Beaten eggs
• Salt

Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—keeping a slightly lumpy texture ensures a moist, fluffy casserole.

3. Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)

If you’re adding cheese, bacon, or jalapeños, now’s the time! Fold them into the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish

Gently pour the batter into your baking dish and spread it evenly for a perfect bake! If you’re adding a cheesy topping, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out mostly clean, it’s ready!

6. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy warm with your favorite mains like barbecue, roasted meats, or holiday feasts!

And there you have it—an effortless, crowd-pleasing Southern corn casserole that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Up next? Let’s explore some expert tips and variations to make this dish even more irresistible!

Expert Tips and Variations

Want to take your Paula Deen Corn Casserole to the next level? Here are some pro tips and fun variations to make this classic Southern comfort food even better.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Corn Casserole

• Don’t Overmix the Batter
  Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, chewy texture instead of the soft, creamy consistency we’re aiming for.
• Let It Rest Before Serving
  Once baked, let your casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
• Check for Doneness
  Every oven bakes a little differently. Start checking around 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out mostly clean, it’s ready to go. If it looks too wobbly, give it another 5-10 minutes.
• Use Full-Fat Ingredients for the Best Flavor
  For that rich, indulgent taste, stick with full-fat sour cream and butter. Lighter versions can work, but they may slightly alter the texture.
• Make It Ahead for Stress-Free Cooking
  Need to prep for a holiday meal or potluck? You can mix the batter ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just give it a quick stir and pop it in the oven.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Cheesy Corn Casserole
  Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle extra on top before baking for a gooey, golden crust.
• Spicy Kick Version
  Love a little heat? Add 2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the batter for a subtle, spicy bite.
• Meat Lover’s Twist
  For extra heartiness, stir in ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or even diced ham. It adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish.
• Tex-Mex Style
  Swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese, add a dash of cumin, and throw in ½ cup of diced bell peppers for a Tex-Mex-inspired twist.
• Muffin-Style Corn Casserole
  Want individual servings? Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes for cute, single-serve corn casseroles—great for brunches and parties.

With these expert tips and creative variations, you can customize your Paula Deen Corn Casserole to suit any occasion. Now that your casserole is baked to perfection, let’s explore the best ways to serve and enjoy this Southern classic.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Paula Deen Corn Casserole is golden brown and irresistibly creamy, it’s time to think about how to serve it. This Southern comfort dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, making it a staple for holiday feasts, potlucks, and weeknight dinners alike.

Best Main Dishes to Pair With Corn Casserole

• Barbecue Favorites – The rich, slightly sweet flavor of the casserole makes it a perfect side for grilled ribs, smoked brisket, pulled pork, or barbecue chicken. The creamy texture balances the smoky, savory notes of barbecue.
• Holiday Classics – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, this casserole shines alongside roast turkey, baked ham, prime rib, or glazed pork loin. It’s a cozy complement to any holiday feast.
• Southern Staples – Serve it with fried chicken, collard greens, black-eyed peas, or shrimp and grits for a full-on Southern-style meal. The flavors blend beautifully for a comforting, homestyle dinner.
• Hearty Everyday Meals – Corn casserole pairs well with baked chicken, meatloaf, roasted pork chops, or even a simple bowl of chili. It adds a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to hearty, savory dishes.

How to Serve Corn Casserole

• Warm and Fresh – This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s warm, soft, and golden brown. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set properly.
• As a Topping or Filling – Spoon it over a plate of chili, pulled pork, or roasted vegetables for an extra layer of creamy, cornbread-like goodness.
• With a Drizzle of Honey or Butter – If you love a touch of sweetness, a light drizzle of honey or melted butter over the top can enhance the flavors even more.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Leftover Tips

• Make-Ahead Option – You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for holiday meal prep.
• Storing Leftovers – Keep any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds.
• Freezing Instructions – Want to freeze it? Bake the casserole first, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. You can Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

With its creamy, comforting texture and rich, buttery flavor, this Paula Deen Corn Casserole is a dish that belongs at any gathering. Whether you serve it for a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a hit every time.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole has become a beloved classic—it’s easy to make, incredibly creamy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or last-minute potluck, this dish never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from barbecue to roasted meats and comforting Southern staples.

The best part? This one-bowl, no-fuss recipe is practically fool proof. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find it simple to follow with minimal prep and just a handful of pantry ingredients. And with all the customizable variations, you can easily make it your own—whether by adding cheese, spice, or a touch of smoky bacon.

If you’ve never made corn casserole before, this is your sign to give it a try. Once you taste that rich, buttery, and creamy texture, you’ll see why it has earned a permanent spot on so many dinner tables. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual family meal, it’s guaranteed to bring everyone back for seconds.

Now that you’ve mastered this Southern comfort food favorite, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most requested recipes. So go ahead, bake up a dish, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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