Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite side dish: Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole! If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a real treat. This casserole is one of those recipes that instantly transports me back to my childhood – you know, the kind of dish that graced the table during family gatherings and holidays, where everyone just gathers around, and you can practically hear the laughter and conversation swirling in the air.
What I adore about this recipe is its perfect blend of sweetness and savory goodness. The creamy texture combined with the golden corn creates a decadent dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare, which is a huge win in my book. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just looking for a comforting side to accompany your weeknight dinner, this Corn Casserole will steal the show!
What’s in Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Now, let’s dive into the key players in this delightful casserole. Here’s what we’ve got:
Whole Kernel Corn: This provides the lovely texture and sweetness, adding a burst of fresh corn flavor to the dish. I always opt for canned, but fresh corn in season is fabulous too!
Cream-Style Corn: This is where the magic really happens! It gives the casserole a creamy, rich consistency. Trust me; don’t skip this ingredient!
Sour Cream: This adds a tangy flavor and enhances the creaminess. I usually go for full-fat sour cream because, well, why not indulge a little?
Unsalted Butter: Nothing beats that melt-in-your-mouth goodness of butter! Make sure it’s unsalted so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
Corn Muffin Mix: This is the secret ingredient that transforms everything into a fluffy, dreamy texture. Jiffy is my go-to brand. If you need a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free mixes out there.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: While this is totally optional, it adds a delicious cheesy element that I simply can’t resist. Go for sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor!
Sugar: Just a touch of sugar can balance all the flavors beautifully. Adjust based on how sweet you like your casserole.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential for bringing out all the flavors!
Is Corn Casserole Good for You?
Alright, let’s chat about the health aspects—because who says comforting food can’t be friendly to your diet, right?
Corn: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, corn is definitely a super star when it comes to nutrition. It’s great for digestion and gives you that energy boost.
Sour Cream: While creaminess is the name of the game, if you’re looking to keep things on the lighter side, consider using Greek yogurt instead—it’s a fantastic, protein-packed substitute!
However, I will note that this casserole does have a good amount of calories due to the butter and cheese. I prefer to treat this as a special occasion dish, and moderation is key. But hey, when you’re sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, isn’t that what it’s all about?
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on how generous you want to be!
– 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
– 1 can (15 ounces) cream-style corn
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package (8.5 ounces) corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust based on sweetness preference)
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Paula Deen’s Corn Casserole?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how you whip up this delight:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Good food starts with a hot oven!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole kernel corn, cream-style corn, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well until you feel the love!
3. Stir in the corn muffin mix. Just mix until everything is combined—overmixing is a crime against casserole!
4. If you’re feeling cheesy, fold in that glorious shredded cheddar along with the sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; season to joy!
5. Pour that beautiful mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. It’s like a warm corn blanket.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and a toothpick to come out clean. The smell will be overwhelmingly delicious—try to resist diving in at this point!
7. Let it cool for a few minutes. I know, it’s hard, but trust me, you want to savor every bite.
Serving Suggestions: Make It Your Own!
This Casserole is a star all by itself, but you can always jazz it up!
– Feel free to toss in some green onions or bell peppers for a bit of color and crunch.
– If you like spice, add diced jalapeños for a kick!
– Serve it alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or as part of your holiday spread for an unforgettable meal.
So, are you ready to treat yourself to this extraordinary Corn Casserole? I can hardly wait for you to try it! I promise it’ll bring smiles and warmth to your table just like it does at mine. After you’ve made it, please share your thoughts; I’d love to hear about your experience with this delicious dish! Happy cooking!
