Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole: A Cozy Classic
If there’s one dish that warms my heart and reminds me of family gatherings, it’s Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole. This delightful casserole has been gracing our dinner table for years, and I can’t tell you how many memories I have of cozy nights filled with laughter and delicious food. I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin tried to whisk in real cornflakes instead of corn muffin mix—needless to say, the casserole was a “crunchy” disaster, but we all had a good laugh! There’s something special about the gooey, cheesy goodness combined with the sweet corn that just feels like home.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, this Corn Casserole is sure to please a crowd. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be whipped up ahead of time, leaving you more time to enjoy with your loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this corn casserole so irresistible!
What’s in Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
– 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained: This gives us that delightful crunch and sweetness, providing texture that’s simply divine. Don’t skimp on the quality; I usually go for the Green Giant brand!
– 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn: The creaminess here is what brings the whole dish together—think of it as the glue that holds all the deliciousness in place.
– 1 cup sour cream: This adds a rich tanginess that enhances the overall flavor. I love using Daisy sour cream; it’s thick and creamy!
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Because everything is better with butter, right? Unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better.
– 1 package (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix: This is where the magic happens! I usually reach for Jiffy because it never fails to impress.
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: This is my favorite part—the more cheese, the better! I tend to go for sharp cheddar for that extra kick.
– 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the flavor profile of the casserole.
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish: These add a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color to your dish!
Is Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest—it’s definitely a comfort food! This casserole is rich and indulgent, which means it may not fit into every health-conscious diet. However, it does have some redeeming qualities. The corn is a great source of fiber and essential nutrients, while cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation!
On the flip side, the butter and sour cream make it a bit high in saturated fats, so if you’re keeping an eye on those, consider alternatives like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or experimenting with a low-fat butter substitute. But trust me, indulging every now and then is part of life’s joy!
Ingredients List
– 1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
– 1 can (15 oz) cream-style corn
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty 2-quart baking dish and grease it with some butter or cooking spray. (Pro tip: This will make clean-up a snap!)
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir it all together until well mixed. I always give my bowl a little dance action—it’s my favorite part!
3. Next, stir in the corn muffin mix, shredded cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is just blended together. No need to overdo it!
4. Pour the delicious mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. You want it to look pretty, don’t you?
5. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. The aroma will have your family drooling!
6. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for just a few moments before serving warm. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish it with chopped green onions on top!
Puttin’ on the Casserole Hats!
This casserole is versatile and can be totally tailored to your liking, so don’t hesitate to mix it up! You can add diced jalapeños for some heat, swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese, or even throw in some cooked bacon bits (#BaconMakesEverythingBetter).
It’s also a great make-ahead dish; you can prepare the mixture the night before, just cover it and stick it in the fridge. When it’s time to eat, simply bake it straight from the refrigerator. Trust me, you’ll have guests asking for seconds!
Now I’m itching to hear about your casserole creations! I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Share your stories, tweaks, or even mishaps—because in the kitchen, we learn, we laugh, we eat, and we love! Enjoy!
